Good Governance

Kogi State Governor, His Excellency Yahaya Bello, CON, has granted a substantial boost to the healthcare sector by approving a 100% hazard allowance for medical doctors and other health workers in the state, effective immediately. The decision was announced during a courtesy visit by the pioneer medical students of Prince Abubakar Audu University, Anyigba, and the leadership of the Nigerian Medical Association, Kogi State, who expressed their gratitude at the government house in Lokoja on Wednesday.

Governor Bello, who inherited accreditation challenges faced by the pioneer set of medical students, took swift action upon assuming office, placing the affected students on scholarship in various tertiary institutions across the country, allowing them to continue their MBBS program. The students, accompanied by their parents and the university’s management, expressed gratitude to Governor Bello for his support.

The Chairman of the Nigerian Medical Association, Kogi State Chapter, Dr. Olusola Baoku, commended Governor Bello for his efforts in the state’s health sector, acknowledging Kogi as one of the seven states in the federation addressing hazard allowance for medical doctors by 50% payment. Governor Bello affirmed the government’s dedication to providing a conducive environment for healthcare professionals and announced the approval of a 100% hazard allowance for medical doctors and health workers in the state with immediate effect.

The Kogi State governor-elect, Ahmed Usman Ododo, also assured continued improvements across all economic sectors, particularly in healthcare delivery, affirming that the state is committed to training medical professionals within and outside the state to bridge the manpower gap.

©Kogipedia

Courtesies.

KSU, Kabba: An Incomparable Gift to Okun Land and Kogi State.
Today is a bright, joyful and happy day.

The meshing of two set of dreams. The collective dream of a people whose decades of yearnings, hope and desire for a university has attained unimagined fulfilment.

The personal dream of a leader, The Executive Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, CON in with a profound sense of history, mission, justice and equity through the establishment of a third university, has come to certitude and reality.

Governor Yahaya Adoza Bello, CON, has in fulfilling his promise to establish this university, etched his name, indelibly, on the wall of history and the minds of a grateful people of Okunland.

Just looking at the picaresque splendour of this environment and the bright, smiling and shining faces of over nine hundred students whose dreams for an opportunity for University education has come to fulfilment and the importance of the marvelous exploit of Governor Yahaya Bello will be manifest.

I congratulate the Governor for proving himself a man of honour, purpose and destiny.

I congratulate the people of Okun land, who’s first alphabet of thought action and industry, is education.

Just consider it deeply: how can a people, who in land mass population density, has the largest number of University professors in the whole of Nigeria not have a university on its soil?

I congratulate His Royal Highness, the Obaro if Kabba and other Obas in the Okun Traditional Council for the blessing of this University during their reign.

I congratulate Kogi State, with the gift of a third and anticipatedly vibrant University, two in the tenure of its present and outgoing Governor.

I congratulate members of my Implementation/provisional Council for their being chosen as the instrument of fulfilling this dream.

In just about six months from inauguration in June to conclusion, the university has been delivered to the Governor, who made the inspired choice of Seventeen of the finest and most ingenious Professors in Kogi State with, six top notch technocrats of government, with an incredible sense of commitment, loyalty and patriotism to the State.

I am eternally grateful to Governor Yahaya Bello, not only for making me the Chairman of the establishment Committee, but by giving us unfettered freedom to do the work.

I must show deep appreciation to my friend, the former Executive Secretary ofu NUC, Prof Abubakar Adamu Rasheed, mni, mfr, FNAL, for his support in granting recognition for the recognition in the fastest speed ever in the history of establishing universities in this country.

He must be glad that in less than six months, the university has come to be and come to stay.

I congratulate the members of the university Management, which my Committee meticulously appointed, and which Governor Yahaya Bello promptly approved, under the digital VC, Prof K.I. T. Eniola who started galloping before hitting the ground.

I congratulate the State government education agent, Hon. Wemi Jones for his fluent and competent handling of the process.

I nudge and urge the people of Okun in particular, and of Kogi State in general to join hands in making this seed of a university become in no time, a great, enviable Baobab tree among the ranks of world universities.

Your Excellency, here is our arrival. What a glorious way of ending a tenure with enduring immortal memory!! Congratulations!!!

I thank you.

Olu Obafemi.

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The governor of Kogi State, His Excellency Yahaya Bello, CON, expresses profound grief over the untimely death of his administration’s former commissioner for Special Duties, the late Comrade Yahaya Adesayo Ismail, whose sad event occurred on Monday, January 15th.

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In a statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, ONOGWU Muhammed stated that the governor described Ismail’s death as a shocking, tragic, and heart-wrenching event with profound sense of grieve.

Governor Bello states that Adesayo Ismail was not merely a dedicated member of his cabinet but also an unwavering friend who stood steadfastly by his side throughout his political journey. A trustworthy man who lived for Allah and humanity with immeasurable love and compassion to all. He acknowledges Adesayo’s invaluable contributions to the growth and development of both his community and the entire state and beyond.

In extending heartfelt prayers for the eternal repose of Adesayo Ismail’s soul, Governor Bello encourages the grieving family to find solace in the remarkable life he led which was marked by unequalled commitment to serving God and humanity.

Late Yahaya Adesayo Ismail was the immediate past Commissioner for Special Duties, Kogi State.

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As the tenure of Yahaya Bello, CON continues to wind down, accolades for the 4th Executive Governor of Kogi State continue to pour in from around the country and beyond.

Recently, the Director-General of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), Amb. Ahmed Rufai Abubakar, commended the outgoing Kogi State Governor for helping to improve his ‘State’s connectivity and accessibility as one of Nigeria’s main trade routes…’ noting that they are traceable to his outstanding achievements in infrastructure development, economic growth and other areas.

In a letter to Governor Bello, Abubakar highlighted key accomplishments, including:

– Significant infrastructural projects that have positioned Kogi as one of Nigeria’s main trade routes.
– Renovation of the Okene Reference Hospital, demonstrating commitment to enhancing public services.
– Establishment of the Omi Rice Farm, one of Nigeria’s largest, showcasing dedication to agricultural development.
– Overall transformation of the state’s economy, leaving it more prosperous and developed.

He further expressed his confidence that Governor Bello will continue to achieve success in his future endeavors.

It will be noted that the NIA Director-General’s agency oversees Nigeria’s national security from an overarching perspective and Governor Yahaya Bello’s Administration has continued to win plaudits for its great strides in security of lives and properties in Kogi State.

– Kogipedia

The following short clips are the video presentation on Governor Yahaya Bello’s broadcast for the appointment of the rulers on key traditional stools, new caretakers, and the new appointments.
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Kogi State Governor, His Excellency Yahaya Bello, charges the newly inaugurated chairpersons of the 21 Local Government Areas (LGAs) in the state to take the issue of safety and security of their respective locality seriously and ensure that their people feel their positive impact, through adequate welfarism.

Addressing them on Tuesday after administering the oath of office and secrecy, Governor Bello emphasizes the paramount importance of prioritizing safety and security within their respective localities. He urges them to leave an indelible mark by exceeding the achievements of their predecessors, particularly in the crucial domain of ensuring security.

Governor Bello acknowledges the substantial workload awaiting them but expressed confidence that, with collaborative efforts and cooperation with stakeholders, they could succeed. He highlights that his outgoing administration and the previous chairmen have laid the groundwork for their smooth transition, advising them to carry every stakeholder along in their new responsibilities.

Emphasizing the imperative of serving the people diligently, Governor Bello cautions that their appointments were not for displaying affluence but required them to work and engage with diverse stakeholders. He stresses that Local Government administration under their leadership would not follow the usual routine.

The Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Bar. Deedat Salami-Ozigi, clarified that the event aimed to inaugurate those responsible for discharging security responsibilities in their respective localities. He explained that the appointment of caretaker chairpersons followed the expiration of the tenure of the former democratically elected chairmen of the 21 LGAs.

Commending Governor Bello’s commitment to peaceful coexistence and security, Ozigi highlighted the positive reception of recent steps taken to reposition the state.

One of the inaugurated caretaker chairmen, Comrade Adamu Abdullahi, representing Lokoja Local Government, expressed readiness to sustain the achievements of their predecessors. He outlined a focus on security, empowerment, and fostering socio-economic growth and development in the state capital.

Those inaugurated included, Rasheed Bashiru Okatengwu (Adavi), Haruna Aliyu Ogido (Ajaokuta), Adamu Yahaya Mohammed (Ankpa),Theophilus Adama (Bassa), John Urah (Dekina), Emmanuel Uge (Ibaji), Amade Egwuda Ochuenu (Idah), Cosmas Attabor Ilemona (Igalamela-Odolu), Ibrahim Haruna (Ijumu), Barr. Zaccaeus Dare Michael (Kabba-Bunu), Musa Abdulmalik (kogi)
Others are Abdullahi Adamu (Lokoja), Ademola Bello (Mopa-Muro), Hassan Atawodi (Ofu), Rosemary Ohiezu (Ogori-Magongo), Monday Amoke Odu (Okehi), Enesi Ahmed Nuhu (Okene), Ameh Williams O (Olamaboro), Edibo Ameh Mark (Omala), Dare Joshua Venza (Yagba West) and Tosin Olokun (Yagba EAST)
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His Excellency, Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi and the incoming Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, pose with a cross-section of members after yesterday’s valedictory meeting of the Kogi State Executive Council Meeting yesterday, 9th January, 2024.

The Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, in a sweeping move, has deposed the Ohimege Igu, the paramount ruler of Koton Karfe, Alhaji Abdulrazaq Isah Koto, along with two other first-class chiefs.
The deposed traditional rulers were also banished to Niger State.

The Governor also said His Royal Highness, Boniface Musa, the ONU-IFE in Omala Local Government, is to be suspended, indefinitely.

According to Bello, his decision to sack the traditional rulers is in line with the Traditional and Chieftaincy Laws, Rules and Regulations, and follows due process.

“His Royal Highness, Alhaji Abdulrazaq Isah Koto, the Ohimege-Igu Koton-Karfe, who is also the Chairman, Lokoja/ Kogi Local Government Area Traditional Council is hereby removed and to be deposed to, Rijau Local Government Area of Niger State,” he said.

He also added that “His Royal Highness, Sam Bola Ojoa, the Olu Magongo of Magongo, is removed and to be deposed to Salka, Magama Local Government Area of Niger State.”

“His Royal Highness, Samuel Adayi Onimisi, the Obobanyi of Emani, is removed and to be deposed to Doko, Lavun Local Government Area of Niger State.”

The Governor made the disclosure at a media briefing after the State Executive Council meeting in Lokoja.

On the deposition of Onimisi, Governor Bello said the title “OBOBANYI OF IHIMA”, which reads on the promotion letter, upgrading the stool to first-class status, “was done without cognisance to the fact that the title; “OBOBANYI OF IHIMA” is a subject of litigation and the court of law is yet to arrive at the possible final decision, as such, the Government have however received several petitions, calling attention to the need to revert and maintain status quo, until the court of law decides.”

“To this end, the stool is hereby reverted to “OBOBANYI OF EMANI” as the present occupant remains deposed.” he also said.

Fresh Appointments
On the following stools, after due intervention by the Government to resolve the lingering controversies that have characterised the selection process, the Government hereby, come up with the following appointments of the next occupants.

That: “Alhaji Ahmed Tijani Anaje, who is the OHI OF OKENWE, is herby appointed as the OHINOYI OF EBIRALAND. as well as Alhaji Ibrahim Gambo Kabir is hereby appointed as the MAIGARI OF LOKOJA.and Alhaji Dauda Isah, is hereby appointed as the MAIYAKI OF KUPA.”

“Mallam Saidu Akawo Salihu was also appointed as the OHIMEGE-IGU KOTON- and he his to be turban immediately.”

Kogi State Governor, His Excellency Yahaya Bello, CON, takes a decisive and strategic action on Monday, January 8, by dissolving the State Executive Council. This significant move serves as a recalibration of the governance trajectory and signifies the initiation of the comprehensive transition process as the ‘New Direction Administration’ gracefully concludes its tenure. Heads of agencies, parastatals and other appointees are also affected by the announcement.

While making the announcement at the end of the State Executive Council Meeting on Monday at the EXCO Hall of the governor’s office , governor Bello commends affected officials for exemplifying unparalleled commitment, diligence, and unwavering patriotism throughout their tenure.

The commendation bestowed upon the outgoing Executive Council members during the session on Monday echoes the governor’s appreciation for their years of dedicated service to the state. Acknowledging their contributions, Governor Bello wishes them success in their future endeavors, a sentiment extended to all heads of agencies and other appointees whose roles are now concluded.

Government officials affected by this announcement are instructed to ensure a thorough and proper handover process, transferring all pertinent government documents, properties, and materials to the permanent secretary of their ministries or senior government officials stationed in their respective offices.

However, the governor retained the following members of the council and aides; the Secretary to the Government of Kogi State, Mrs Ayoade Folashade Arike, PhD, Rtd Navy Commodore Jerry Omodara, State Security Adviser, Hon Sunday Faleke, Deputy Chief of Staff, Alh Oricha Umaru Shaibu, Director-General, Government House Administration, Barr Mohammed Sanni Ibrahim, SAN, Attorney General and commissioner for Justice, Abubakar Bashir Mohammed, Commissioner for Solid Mineral and Natural Resources, Kingsley Olorunfemi Fanwo, Commissioner for Information and Communication, Mohammed Ihiezue Abdulmutalib, Commissioner for Rural and Energy Development, Asiru Idris Asiwaju, Commissioner for Finance, Budget and Economic Planning, Abdulsalam Ozigi Momodu, Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Wemi Jones, Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Yakubu Yusuf Okala, State Auditor-General, Musa Bashiru Ohu, Special Adviser to the Governor (government House Imam), Hadi Ametuo, Special Adviser on Political Matters.

Others also retained by the governor are; Dr Abdulazeez Adams Adeiza, Personal Physician to the Governor, Onogwu Muhammed, Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Sunday Bamidele Ayenibe, Director- General Protocol, Afolabi Joseph Raji, Special Adviser on Special Duties II,Moses Okezie-Okafor, Director-General, Research and Development, and Ahovi Salami Ibrahim. Not affected by the dissolution are all domestic staff to the governor and deputy governor including those of their spouses

Similarly, governor Bello makes new appointment of the following persons to fill the vital vacant positions in the state;

Habibat Oyiza Tijani, State’s Accountant-General, Abdulrazaq Muhammed, Executive Chairman, State Universal Basic Education Board, Yakubu Siyaka Adabenege, Auditor-General for Local Governments, Kadiri Mohammed Okeji, Special Adviser on Finance, Isah Taofeeq, Director-General, Project Monitoring Agency.

In order to strengthening the security architecture of the State in the area of intelligence and information gathering, governor Bello also appoints the following persons as Security Advisers from all the Federal Constituencies of the State;

Goke Okparison, Zonal Security Adviser, Okene/Ogori Fed Constituency, Mustapha Aliyu Aka’aba, Zonal Security Adviser, Ajaokuta Fed Constituency, Salami Joseph Omuya, Zonal Security Adviser, Adavi/Okehi Fed Constituency, Olorunleke Moses, Zonal Security Adviser, Kabba/Ijumu Fed Constituency, Muhammed Mundi, Zonal Security Adviser, Lokoja/Koton Karfe Fed Constituency, Pius Kolawole, Zonal Security Adviser, Yagba Fed Constituency, Kabiru Adaji Zonal Security Adviser, Dekina/Bassa Fed Conkstituency, Ayuba Nana, Zonal Security Adviser, Ankpa Federal Constituency, and Abu Odoma, Zonal Security Adviser, Idah Federal Constituency. These appointments take effect immediately.

Governor Bello charges the newly appointed officials with a clarion call for total commitment, unwavering patriotism, and steadfast dedication in the discharge of their duties. The governor adds that efficiency, competence, and the relentless pursuit of progress must be prioritised

ONOGWU Muhammed
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor
January 8, 2024

Kogi State ranked in 7th in the States Fiscal Transparency League Out of 36 States in Nigeria. #thinkkogiproject

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