Excitement is building in Kogi State as the countdown draws to a close for the 7th Annual Symposium of the OJN, a gathering that has, over the years, evolved into one of the state’s foremost platforms for dialogue between leadership and the youth.
Scheduled for Wednesday, July 15, 2026, at the Kay Galaxy Event Centre, Lokoja, the symposium will begin by 10:00 a.m. and is expected to draw a broad spectrum of political office holders, academics, student leaders and stakeholders under the theme reflected in this year’s rallying call.
Confirmed to grace the occasion is Senator Abubakar Ohere, a former Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs and one-time Commissioner for Works in the state, whose attendance organisers describe as a significant boost to the event’s profile.
Also lending his voice of support is the Commissioner for Finance, Budget and Economic Planning, Mukadam Asiwaju Asiru Idris, popularly known by his initials MAAI, who has pledged not merely to attend but to mobilise his network in support of the symposium — a gesture organisers say underscores the growing weight the event now carries within government circles.
The list of dignitaries billed to attend further includes the Auditor General for Local Government, Hon. Yakubu Siyaka Adabenege, affectionately called “the King of Boys” by many youths in the state for his down-to-earth disposition, as well as Hon. Ali Bello, Chief of Staff to the Executive Governor of Kogi State and reputedly the youngest to hold such an office in Nigeria.
Organisers have promised that this year’s edition will surpass previous ones in scale and substance, with a packed agenda of keynote sessions, panel discussions and networking opportunities designed to connect emerging leaders with established voices in government and public life.
As the date approaches, anticipation continues to grow across the state, with residents and stakeholders alike being urged to mark their calendars for what is being billed as a “history-making” event.
Venue: Kay Galaxy Event Centre, Lokoja, Kogi State
Date: Wednesday, July 15, 2026 | Time: 10:00 a.m.
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