By Abah Benjamin Eneojoh
The Kogi State Government under the leadership of Governor Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo has released the state’s counterpart fund for the Kogi State Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (KG-RAAMP).
In a statement issued by RAAMP Communication Officer, Mr Ndamodu Ali, the cheering news was disclosed by the State Project Coordinator, Engineer Sheidu Obansa Adamu, during a media interaction, where he eulogized the governor for his unwavering support and visionary drive to reposition rural communities for economic growth and better living standards.
Engineer Obansa described the release of the counterpart fund as another testament to Governor Ododo’s rural-friendly disposition and strategic understanding of the impact of RAAMP in enhancing agricultural productivity and access.
The Coordinator said the gesture has re-energized the entire project implementation team to push ahead with greater determination.
Engineer Obansa also acknowledged the pivotal roles played by key stakeholders in making the milestone possible. Among them are the Commissioner for Energy and Rural Development, Engineer Abdulmutalib Muhammad; the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Alhaji Ali Bello; and the Commissioner for Finance, Budget and Economic Planning, Asiwaju Asiru Idris as well as the State Accountant General Hajiya Dr. Habibat Tijani Onumoko noting that their tireless support and dedication has been instrumental in sustaining the momentum of the project.
Highlighting recent strides, Engineer Obansa revealed that contracts have been signed for the upgrade of critical rural market infrastructures across three senatorial districts: AKU market in Adavi LGA, Ajaka market in Igalamela-Odolu, and Aiyegunle market in Kabba-Bunu stressing that these development underscores the state government’s commitment to equitable distribution of projects and rural economic revitalization.
In addition, road construction works are ongoing across several localities in line with RAAMP’s core objectives.
Expressing optimism, the Coordinator said the project is on course to be delivered on schedule and called on citizens to continue supporting the people-oriented administration of Governor Ododo, whom he praised as a beacon of hope for the rural populace.
Meanwhile, Engineer Obansa also briefed staff on the recent extension of the RAAMP lifespan to 2027—graciously approved by donor partners after a joint request by State Project Management Committee (SPMC) chairmen from participating states. He described the extension as both a golden opportunity and a renewed call for excellence, urging the staff to redouble their efforts and maintain top-tier productivity in meeting the project’s targets. He also charged them to shun every form of negative tendencies, including laxity, sabotage, internal rivalry, or unprofessional conduct that could derail the gains made so far, noting that the success of the project hinges on collective responsibility and discipline.
The occasion also provided staff the opportunity to meet the Acting Permanent Secretary of the supervising Ministry of Rural and Energy Development, Mr. Daniel Onimisi. In his remarks, Mr. Onimisi encouraged staff to uphold hard work, commitment, punctuality, and team spirit in order to ensure continued success. He assured them of continued collaboration and pledged to build on the cordial foundation laid by his predecessor.
Staff members, in turn, welcomed the Acting Permanent Secretary with warm assurances of renewed dedication and collective focus on achieving the project’s set goals.
