Kogi State Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has charged the newly sworn-in chairmen of the state’s 21 local government areas to strengthen rural security, manage public funds transparently and prioritise services that improve residents’ lives.
Represented by his Deputy, Comrade Joel Salifu, the governor delivered the charge during the chairmen’s inauguration at the Glass House, Government House, Lokoja, on Wednesday, October 21, 2026.
Ododo told the council leaders to work closely with security agencies, traditional rulers and community leaders to protect lives and property, stressing that no community should be abandoned to criminal activities.
Security and basic services top priorities
The governor identified rural roads, primary healthcare, basic education and environmental sanitation as areas requiring immediate attention. He also urged the chairmen to implement programmes that expand economic opportunities for young people and women.
His directive places responsibility on the councils to respond to community needs and strengthen cooperation with security agencies. The Bureau Journal has previously reported on security operations targeting illegal arms in Kogi and the rescue of kidnapped victims following an operation in Itobe.
Ododo assured the chairmen of the state government’s support in delivering development at the grassroots.
APC victory comes with responsibility
Congratulating the chairmen, the governor thanked residents for supporting the All Progressives Congress, which won all 21 chairmanship positions and 239 councillorship seats in the local government elections.
He described the outcome as a call to greater service, urging the elected officials to fulfil their campaign promises and justify the confidence voters had placed in them.
The governor also expressed confidence in continued support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and APC candidates ahead of the 2027 elections. He commended the President’s leadership and development agenda.
Ododo demands transparent management of council funds
Ododo urged the chairmen to exercise financial discipline, remain accountable for public resources and ensure that expenditure delivers benefits to their communities.
He also called on them to remain humble and accessible, stressing that their administrations must serve residents fairly, regardless of political affiliation.
The emphasis on local services follows other development interventions in the state, including projects, agricultural support and reforms approved by the Kogi Executive Council.
Education and economic development remain part of that wider agenda, with previous reports covering bursary support for Kogi students and investment in cashew processing.
The governor wished the chairmen a successful tenure and urged them to make government’s presence felt through improved security, responsible spending and consistent delivery of basic services.
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