The Kogi State Government has lauded LugardTV as a strategic media platform playing a critical role in public engagement and effective dissemination of government information.
This commendation was made by the Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Dr. (Mrs.) Folashade Ayoade Arike, at the official flag-off of LugardTV’s month-long anniversary celebration. The event kicked off on Friday with a community outreach and a novelty football match between Team Ododo and Team Kogi All Stars, held at the Muhammadu Buhari Civic Centre in Lokoja.
Governor Ododo praised the management and staff of LugardTV for their professionalism, innovation, and commitment to developmental journalism. He noted that despite being barely a year old, the station has proven its capacity to amplify government initiatives, promote transparency, and strengthen the link between government and the people.
“LugardTV has swiftly emerged as a key player in Kogi State’s media landscape. It is helping to shape positive narratives, highlight progress, and drive public enlightenment. We commend this effort and encourage the team to sustain their momentum,” he stated.
The Governor also applauded the Special Adviser on Media to the Governor, Mr. Ismaila Isah, describing him as a dedicated professional whose leadership has positioned LugardTV as a trusted platform for public communication in the state.
“LugardTV has become the voice of government, articulating our programmes and achievements with consistency and clarity. The station has our full support as it continues to grow,” he added.
In his remarks, Mr. Ismaila Isah noted that the novelty football match was inspired by the Governor’s well-known passion for sports, and was included in the celebration to foster unity and camaraderie within the Government House Media Team.
“His Excellency is an avid football enthusiast. Including this friendly match between Team Ododo and Team Kogi All Stars allowed us to blend celebration with relaxation. It’s also a reward for the hard work the media team has put in over the past year,” Isah said.
He reaffirmed LugardTV’s commitment to deepening professionalism, innovation, and content reach in alignment with the administration’s vision for effective communication of government policies and programmes.
Mr. Isah also thanked dignitaries who attended the flag-off ceremony and participated in the football match for their support and encouragement.
During the match, players wore black armbands in solemn tribute to two recently bereaved public officials: Alhaji Yusuf Okala, father of the State Auditor-General, and the late husband of the Commissioner for Humanitarian and Poverty Alleviation, Hajia Rabietu Okute.
LugardTV’s anniversary celebrations will continue in the coming weeks with a series of activities designed to promote civic engagement, media innovation, and public enlightenment.
