Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has assured that his administration will continue to support and create an enabling environment for individuals and institutions committed to people-centred initiatives across the state.

The Governor made this known on Monday at the inauguration of the DAM Foundation Civic Recreation Complex in Okene.

He described the project as a landmark investment in youth development, community empowerment and a non-kinetic approach to tackling insecurity.

Governor Ododo said the project exemplifies responsible leadership focused on future generations.

He commended the founder of the DAM Foundation, Dr. Abdullahi Mustapha, for demonstrating true leadership rooted in service, youth empowerment and the creation of opportunities for young people to grow.

“This is a great example of community development. This elite centre stands as a practical expression of leadership that uplifts lives, invests in our youth and builds platforms for talent and innovation,” the governor said.

He also acknowledged the purposeful leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, noting that the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda, with its emphasis on inclusive governance, human capital development and social investment, provides strong national support for initiatives that complement government efforts at all levels.

He expressed confidence that the facility under the stewardship of Dr. Mustapha, would drive human capital development, nurture talent, attract sporting excellence and stimulate local economic activities for years to come.

The governor further applauded the commissioning of a 100-bed capacity hostel within the complex, describing it as a highly commendable addition that would benefit athletes and the wider community.

“This initiative is a non-kinetic approach to fighting insecurity. We cannot blame our youths for drifting into crime if we fail to provide credible alternatives.

I urge young people to use this centre responsibly for self-development and positive engagement,” Ododo said, while encouraging corporate organisations and well-meaning Nigerians to emulate the foundation’s example.

Earlier, Director-General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria and founder of the DAM Foundation, Dr. Abdullahi Mustapha said the complex was established to redirect youth’s energy toward productive and constructive activities.

According to him, the DAM Foundation was created to promote community development and youth empowerment, based on the belief that sustainable development begins when people at the grassroots are equipped with the right tools, opportunities and support systems.

“This location was once idle and had become a gathering point for non-constructive activities. Today, the narrative has changed. This complex is our deliberate response to that challenge by creating a place to engage minds, nurture talents and channel energies towards productivity,” Mustapha said.

He revealed that the foundation has facilitated job creation for hundreds of youths, awarded scholarships to deserving students, and implemented human capital development programmes that equip beneficiaries with market-ready skills.

Mustapha disclosed that over 100 children from across the country have been admitted into the DAM Foundation camp, marking the commencement of the 2025 DAM Foundation Basketball Championship.

He also announced the recent training of about 1,000 youths and women in ICT and craft skills, adding that certificates, computers and essential tools would be distributed to participants.

The Ohinoyi of Ebiraland and Vice Chairman of the Kogi State Traditional Council, HRM Alhaji Ahmed Tijani Muhammed Anaje, thanked Governor Ododo and Dr. Mustapha for the initiative, describing the complex as “a gift for generations unborn.”

He urged the youths to utilize the centre for its intended purpose and called on other sons and daughters of Ebiraland to emulate Dr. Mustapha’s philanthropic gesture.

Other highlights of the event is a medical outreach with free eye, nose and throat examination, general medical checks and free drugs to members of the community.