Abah Benjamin Eneojoh
Lokoja
Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has charged the newly sworn-in chairmen of the 21 local government areas of the state to strengthen security at the grassroots, ensure accountability and prioritise rural development.
Ododo gave the charge on Wednesday during the swearing-in ceremony held at the Glass House, Government House, Lokoja.
He was represented by his deputy, Joel Salifu.
The governor urged the council chairmen to work closely with security agencies, traditional rulers and community leaders to protect lives and property, stressing that no community would be abandoned to criminal activities.
He also directed them to give priority to rural roads, primary healthcare, basic education, environmental sanitation and programmes that create opportunities for youths and women.
Ododo congratulated the chairmen on their victory and thanked the people of the state for supporting the All Progressives Congress, which won all chairmanship and councillorship seats in the 21 LGAs and 239 wards.
He described the victory as a call to greater service and urged the elected officials to justify the confidence reposed in them.
The governor expressed confidence that the state would continue to support President Bola Tinubu and candidates of the APC ahead of the 2027 general elections.
He commended the President for his leadership and commitment to development through the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Ododo further charged the chairmen to manage public funds transparently, remain humble and accessible, and govern without discrimination.
He wished them a successful tenure and assured them of the state government’s support to drive development at the grassroots.
Stakeholders described the swearing-in as the beginning of a new chapter in local government administration in the state.
The State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Muiz Abdallah (SAN) administered the oath of office and allegiance on the new Local Government chairmen.
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