The Honourable Minister of Steel Development, Prince Shuaibu Abubakar Audu, on Friday, May 15, 2026, received members of the Kogi East Elders Council and the Okura State Movement in his office in Abuja, as the groups called for greater development, peace, unity and reconciliation across Kogi East.
The delegation was led by Professor Godwin Ogbadu, Chairman of the Kogi East Elders Council, alongside Dr. Haruna Ugwolawo, Secretary-General of the Okura State Movement, and other notable leaders and stakeholders from Kogi East, Igala and Bassa Nation.
Speaking during the visit, the elders commended the Minister for his leadership role and efforts in advancing the interests and welfare of the people of Kogi East at the national level. They noted that, as the region’s representative at the Federal Executive Council and political leader, he has continued to demonstrate commitment to the growth and development of Igala and Bassa lands.
The delegation also paid tribute to his late father, Prince Abubakar Audu, whose administration they said “delivered landmark development projects across the region, many of which the people still benefit from today.” They expressed confidence in the Minister’s capacity to “sustain and build upon that legacy of service, unity and development.”
Professor Godwin Ogbadu said the mission of the delegation was to encourage the Minister to remain steadfast in championing the development of Kogi East. He specifically appealed for interventions in the provision of electricity to communities across Igala Land, the rehabilitation of abandoned federal roads, and the revival of the railway line from Ajaokuta through Igala Land to Oturkpo, which he said would “further open up Kogi East to economic growth, trade and investment opportunities.”
Also speaking, Dr. Haruna Ugwolawo highlighted the long-standing agitation for the creation of Okura State, noting that the demand represents the aspirations of the people of Kogi East for “greater inclusion, accelerated development and improved governance.” He called on the Minister to lend his support towards advancing the cause of state creation within the framework of constitutional processes.
In her remarks, Professor Lucy Ogbadu stressed the need for reconciliation among the people of Kogi East, including political leaders, traditional rulers, elites and the wider populace. “Meaningful development can only thrive in an atmosphere of peace and unity,” she said. She informed the Minister of the forthcoming Truth and Reconciliation Summit scheduled for June 2026 and called for his active participation and support.
Responding, the Honourable Minister expressed appreciation to the elders and stakeholders for the visit, describing it as “a great honour to receive Prominent Elders and Leaders of the land.” He assured the delegation of his continued commitment to the development and welfare of the people of Kogi East.
While acknowledging the aspirations surrounding the creation of Okura State, the Minister urged the people to prioritise peace, unity and reconciliation, noting “the constitutional and political complexities that have historically hindered the creation of new states over many decades.” He emphasised that “sustainable development can only be achieved in an atmosphere of peace and collective purpose.”
The visit was signed off by Lizzy Okoji, Special Assistant (Media) to the Honourable Minister of Steel Development, Prince Shuaibu Abubakar Audu, on May 16, 2026.