Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has expressed appreciation to councillors across the 21 Local Government Areas of the state for their unwavering support, describing the confidence reposed in him by the lawmakers as a “blank cheque” that continues to inspire his administration to sustain the policy of inclusive governance and focus on development at the grassroots.
Governor Ododo stated this while receiving members of the Kogi State Councillors’ Forum, led by its Leader, Rt. Hon. Comfort Obaromi, on a courtesy visit to the Government House in Lokoja.
Governor Ododo expressed appreciation to the councillors for their loyalty and sacrifices during the 2024 governorship election, noting that many in the group supported him despite not knowing him personally.
He commended the unity and maturity displayed by the Councillors’ Forum, describing councillors as indispensable partners in delivering democratic dividends at the grassroots.
He urged the local government lawmakers to remain committed to selfless service, stressing that public office is about making meaningful impact in the lives of the people.
Reflecting on his political journey, the Governor said his rise from a humble background should encourage Nigerians never to underestimate their potential, adding that anyone can attain positions of responsibility.
Governor Ododo also expressed satisfaction with the level of stability in local government administration in the state, noting that over 60 per cent of councillors are returning for another term, which he described as evidence of improved performance and growing public confidence in the administration.
Earlier, the Leader of the Kogi State Councillors’ Forum, Rt. Hon. Comfort Obaromi, congratulated the Governor on the achievements of his administration, particularly in infrastructure, security, economic development, youth and women empowerment, and improved service delivery.
She reaffirmed the loyalty of councillors to the Ododo administration, describing them as the closest elected representatives to the grassroots and pledging continued support for the implementation of government policies across the 239 wards in the state.
The Forum appealed to the Governor to improve the welfare of councillors through better remuneration, provision of official vehicles for Council Leaders, capacity-building programmes, legislative training, ICT facilities and improved working tools.
A key highlight of the meeting was the endorsement of both President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Ododo for a second term in office by councillors from the 21 Local Government Areas in a unanimous vote.
