Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo has restated commitment to development at the grassroots level through effective collaboration between the state and local governments to take governance closer to the people of the state.
Governor Ododo made this known during the the presentation of new vehicles to Chairmen of the 21 Local Government Areas (LGAs) of the state at the Muhammadu Buhari Civic Center in Lokoja.
The Governor emphasized that the vehicles would enhance mobility for local government chairmen, making it easier for them to reach rural communities, assess projects, and facilitate more effective governance.
He urged the chairmen to utilize the vehicles responsibly and strategically to drive development across communities in their local government areas.
“These official vehicles are not symbols of status, they are tools for service. I expect that they will be used judiciously and strictly for the purpose of advancing development across our communities”, he said.
The Governor also called on the chairmen to complement the state’s efforts by improving education, healthcare, and security at the local level.
While commending the Nigerian Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) for their dedication, Governor Ododo encouraged them to collaborate with local government chairmen, council members, and appointed officials to deepen development at the grassroots.
Also speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Barr. Ozigi Deedat, described the occasion as a historic milestone, noting that such a gesture is the first of its kind under the present administration.
He praised Governor Ododo for his strong commitment to development across the state and expressed delight that the impact of the administration is reaching the grassroots.
“Your leadership style and determination are providing enabling environment for the Chairmen to perform their duties optimally,” he noted.
Deedat described the gesture as a reflection of transparency and accountability, and urged the local government chairmen to support Governor Ododo’s administration in delivering the dividends of democracy to the people.
Speaking on behalf of the chairmen, Chairman of the Kogi State Chapter of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) executive Chairman, Yagba West Local Government Area, Tosin Olokun expressed gratitude to the Governor for his continued support for local administration in the state .
He noted that the vehicles will significantly enhance their ability to carry out responsibilities at the grassroots level and assuring the Governor of the loyalty and continued support for his administration by local government chairmen in the state.
The flag-off ceremony was attended by top officials of the state government
politician, traditional rulers, and members of the business community, all of whom praised Governor Ododo for the priorities given to governance and the local government level in the state.