As part of efforts to strengthen the state’s broadcast infrastructure and enhance service delivery, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has approved the construction of a permanent structure for Radio Kogi, Okeneba station.
The State Commissioner for Information and Communications, Hon. Kingsley Femi Fanwo, disclosed this during the presentation of a cheque to the landowner for the acquisition of land designated for the project.
Fanwo said the administration of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo is committed to providing the station with a modern facility that will enhance broadcasting operations and better serve residents of the area.
According to him, Radio Kogi currently operates from permanent structures in Lokoja, Ochaja and Egbe, while Okeneba remains the only station without a permanent operational base.
“We currently have permanent structures at Lokoja, Ochaja and Egbe. The only place we do not have a permanent structure for our radio station is here in Okeneba. This is unacceptable, and we will repay our staff’s years of sacrifice here,” he said.
The Commissioner described the project as one of the landmark achievements of the Ododo administration in the information and communications sector, noting that government-owned media platforms remain critical tools for promoting civic participation and social inclusion.
“This is going to be one of the legacy projects of the Ododo Administration as we continue to leverage our broadcast media to mobilize our people for participation in governance and inclusion,” he added.
Fanwo commended the staff of Radio Kogi Okeneba for their resilience and dedication despite operating under challenging conditions over the years.
“I want to thank our staff here for their decades of sacrifice and for continuing to deliver despite the uncomfortable environment,” he stated.
The Commissioner also announced that Governor Ododo has approved funds for the rehabilitation of critical facilities at the station to restore transmission services after more than eight weeks of downtime caused by equipment failure.
“His Excellency, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has approved funds to replace some faulty facilities that have kept us off air at Okeneba for over eight weeks. We apologize to our people and assure them that we will soon resume transmission with better service delivery,” he said.
Fanwo expressed appreciation to the host community for its continued support and cooperation, assuring residents that Radio Kogi Okeneba would continue to promote the rich cultural heritage, values and aspirations of the people of Kogi Central.
