Kogi State Governor, His Excellency Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, alongside the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN, and other distinguished leaders, has performed the groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of the Kogi State International Airport at Zariagi, Kogi State.
The ceremony marks the commencement of the airport project, which is expected to form part of the state's aviation and transportation infrastructure development.
In its continued commitment to promoting political equity, fairness, inclusive governance and sustainable development in Kogi State, the Kogi Power Rotation Summit, under the theme "Retooling Kogi for Unity and Shared Prosperity," has announced a three-day post-summit stakeholders' roundtable across the three senatorial districts of the state.
The initiative represents a strategic continuation of the conversations, consultations and engagements already undertaken to encourage mutual understanding, strengthen political inclusion and establish a common ground for a more united and prosperous Kogi State.
The organisers recognise that the question of political power rotation goes beyond the ambition of any individual, political group or senatorial district. It touches on the fundamental principles of fairness, justice, belonging and equal opportunities in the political leadership and development of the state.
Over time, the initiative has pursued engagements aimed at bringing different interest groups together, encouraging constructive conversations and allowing stakeholders from Kogi West, Central and East to express their views on the need for an equitable political arrangement that promotes stability and strengthens confidence in the state's democratic process.
The maiden statewide summit provided an important platform for these conversations, bringing together stakeholders to deliberate on the future of political inclusion, equitable representation and shared prosperity. The post-summit roundtable is therefore designed to consolidate the discussions, deepen consultations and ensure that the recommendations and resolutions emerging from the summit receive broader understanding and constructive contributions from stakeholders across the state.
Importantly, the engagements are not intended to create political division or undermine existing relationships among the people of Kogi State. Rather, they seek to promote a culture of dialogue, mutual respect and collective responsibility, recognising that the unity of the state must remain paramount in every discussion about political representation and leadership succession.
The organisers believe that sustainable peace and development can only be achieved when all constituent parts of the state feel recognised, respected and included in the political process. This makes continuous stakeholder engagement necessary in building a credible and generally acceptable framework for political equity and shared prosperity.
SCHEDULE OF THE POST-SUMMIT STAKEHOLDERS' ROUNDTABLE
KOGI WEST SENATORIAL DISTRICT – KABBA
Venue: Liza Palm Hotel, Kabba
Date: Tuesday, November 10, 2026
Time: 10:00 a.m. Prompt.
KOGI CENTRAL SENATORIAL DISTRICT – OKENE
Venue: Afims Hotel, Okene
Date: Wednesday, November 11, 2026
Time: 10:00 a.m. Prompt.
KOGI EAST SENATORIAL DISTRICT – IDAH
Venue: Idaho Hotel, Idah
Date: Thursday, November 12, 2026
Time: 10:00 a.m. Prompt.
The roundtable will provide an opportunity for political stakeholders, traditional rulers, religious leaders, community representatives, professionals, youth organisations, women groups and other concerned citizens to contribute meaningfully to the ongoing conversation.
Participants are expected to examine the issues raised during the summit, share informed perspectives, identify areas of common understanding and make recommendations that can strengthen the pursuit of political fairness, inclusive governance and balanced development across the three senatorial districts.
The organisers consequently call on all stakeholders, political leaders and well-meaning citizens to take ownership of this process by participating actively and approaching the discussions with open minds, patriotism and a genuine commitment to the collective interest of Kogi State.
The future of Kogi State should not be defined by division or competing regional interests, but by fairness, understanding, cooperation and a shared commitment to progress.
The message is clear: Unity must be protected, equity must be pursued, and prosperity must be shared by all.
KOGI POWER ROTATION SUMMIT
Retooling Kogi for Unity and Shared Prosperity.
Hon. Leke Abejide has continued to receive commendations from Masters of Ceremonies (MCs), well-wishers and members of the Yoruba community following his empowerment initiative, which has attracted appreciation from several beneficiaries.
Different MCs and supporters have openly praised the lawmaker, expressing gratitude for his show of kindness and commitment to supporting the less privileged, particularly widows and other beneficiaries.
The initiative, which includes the distribution of ₦50,000 tokens to widows and selected beneficiaries, has generated positive reactions, with many describing the gesture as a welcome intervention to support individuals and families facing financial challenges.
Some of the beneficiaries and well-wishers have also used the opportunity to appreciate Hon. Abejide for remembering them and extending a helping hand through the empowerment programme.
The growing expressions of appreciation highlight the importance of community support and initiatives aimed at improving the welfare of vulnerable members of society.
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The Ijumu of Chapter of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) has endorsed Hon. Salman Idris, the member representing Kabba-Bunu/Ijumu Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives as its preferred candidate for the January 16, 2027 National Assembly election.
The endorsement was announced during a meeting held at Naomi Hotel, Okoro-Gbede where the youth organisation also presented campaign materials to the lawmaker in support of his re-election bid.
Speaking at the event, the Chairman of the council, Comrade Sunday Felix Bature commended Hon. Idris for what he described as his performance beyond expectations, noting that his representation had met the aspirations of the people.
Bature said the lawmaker deserved another term in office, urging constituents to consider his record of performance as he seeks re-election.
In his response, Hon. Salman Idris expressed appreciation to the youth leaders for the endorsement and presentation of campaign materials describing the gesture as an encouragement.
He reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the youth and sustaining his engagement with them, assuring the group of his continued support.
The Obadofin of Ayegunle Igun Bunu, Oba Jethro Sunday Omodamori has said that his community will appreciate the Member representing Kabba-Bunu/Ijumu Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Salman Idris, for his support and developmental interventions when the time comes.
The traditional ruler made this known during an inspection of a water project in Ayegunle Igun Bunu, where he commended the federal lawmaker for his commitment to improving the welfare of residents.
Oba Omodamori expressed gratitude to Hon. Salman for his support for the community, particularly the provision of solar-powered streetlights, which he said had been received by the community.
The monarch noted that although traditional rulers do not engage in partisan politics, the people of Ayegunle Igun would at the appropriate time demonstrate their appreciation for the lawmaker's contributions to the community.
He said the community recognised the importance of the projects and other interventions aimed at improving the lives of its people.
Responding, Hon. Salman Idris thanked the royal father for his support and goodwill, assuring him that the community would continue to benefit from more dividends of democracy.
The lawmaker reaffirmed his commitment to supporting initiatives that promote development and improve the living conditions of constituents across Kabba-Bunu/Ijumu Federal Constituency.
The inspection of the water project provided an opportunity for the monarch to acknowledge the ongoing developmental efforts and express the community's appreciation for the lawmaker's interventions.
Kogi State Governor, His Excellency Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has supported young entrepreneurs with the sum of ₦15 million to promote self-reliance, youth empowerment, and economic development.
Governor Ododo disclosed this on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, at the grand finale of the free skills acquisition programme organised by MS Beauty Salon & Spa, which trained 300 youths in various skills.
The Governor charged the newly trained entrepreneurs to embrace self-reliance, utilise their acquired skills effectively, and contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s economic growth.
He further encouraged them to focus on building sustainable businesses, creating employment opportunities, and becoming employers of labour rather than depending solely on government jobs.
The initiative underscores the Ododo administration’s commitment to youth empowerment, entrepreneurship development, and the promotion of a productive and self-reliant population in Kogi State.
GOVERNOR ODODO APPROVES TO COVER SURGERY BILLS OF TWO YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS INVOLVED IN AN ACCIDENT
Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has expressed satisfaction with the progress of work at the ongoing Kogi State International Airport project in Zariagi, Lokoja.
During an inspection visit earlier today, Governor Ododo commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for supporting critical infrastructure development at the subnational level.
The Governor described the airport as a strategic investment that will boost economic growth, improve connectivity and attract investors to Kogi State.
Project officials confirmed that construction has reached approximately 20-25% completion, with intensive earthworks ongoing.
“It is not an AI thing. Come and see things for yourselves,” Governor Ododo declared, challenging critics to visit the project site.
Kogi is building for the future.
Gentlemen of the Press,
You may wish to recall that not too long ago, some critical stakeholders across tribal, sectional, age, gender and political boundaries converged on the GALAXY EVENT CENTER, Lokoja, to discuss inter alia, POWER ROTATION in Kogi State between the 3 Senatorial Districts of Kogi Central, Kogi East and Kogi West. This dialogue followed several agitations that power sharing and distribution should be discussed to allow for smooth, healthy and convivial relationships between the various segments that make up Kogi State.
You may wish to further recall that a lot were discussed at the Summit whereupon the general opinion acceptable to all is that power rotation is a just call which for the interest of peace, equity and fairplay should be undertaken.
Various participating interest groups, tribal unions, political representatives and Local Government Areas took the resolution back home.
Here in Lokoja Local Government, we participated in the entire process of the Summit and came back to review the entire Summit and resolved as follows:
1. That Power Rotation is a healthy and a well accepted consensus which we considered as important.
2. That we, Lokoja Critical Stakeholders, key into the desire for Power Rotation and the attendant benefits to create peace and harmony in Kogi State.
3. That we commend the proponent of the Summit that at no time that it's more important to discuss this matter than now.
4. That following the political trends in Kogi State and Nigeria at large and that in line with constitutional provisions, power rotation should not become a tool to deprive the incumbent Governor of Kogi State, His Excellency, Alhaji Ahmed Usman ODODO, the right to fulfill his constitutional rights for another term in office.
5. That we observed that Councillors, Local Government Chairmen, State Assembly members, National Assembly members and indeed, Mr. President are all seeking re-election for another term. It will therefore, be curious to now subject the well deserved return of Governor ODODO to an unwarranted debate.
6. That we the Critical Stakeholders in Lokoja do hereby extends our support, solidarity and commitment to the re-election of His Excellency, Governor AHMED USMAN ODODO come November 2027.
7. That we call on all people of means and goodwill throughout Kogi State to join hands with us to achieve this.
8. That his re-election will not only enhance peace that we are all enjoying at present, it will enable him continue and even improve on the developmental strides he has currently embarked upon in Kogi State.
Gentlemen of the Press, Ladies and Gentlemen!
We want to thank you all for listening to us and hope our messages will reach your audience as you have always done.
We also plead that this message is not just an exercise on paper and the news but we, Stakeholders here present, will take the message and work accordingly towards the re-election of Gov. Ahmed Usman ODODO as our Governor in Kogi State come November, 2027.
Thank you and God bless!
The 2026 Ayere Day celebration has recorded a significant moment in the history of Ayere Kingdom as Hon. Omoluabi Bode Adeyemi was honoured with the prestigious traditional title of Atayese of Ayere Kingdom, in recognition of his contributions, commitment to community development, and dedication to the growth and progress of society.
The colourful ceremony, which attracted traditional rulers, political leaders, community stakeholders, youth groups, and other distinguished personalities, provided an opportunity to celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Ayere while recognising individuals whose contributions have continued to make a positive difference in the lives of the people.
Hon. Omoluabi Bode Adeyemi's installation as Atayese of Ayere Kingdom represents a remarkable milestone and a call to greater service, as he continues to demonstrate his commitment to the advancement of communities and the promotion of peace, unity, and development.
Beyond the honour bestowed upon him, Omoluabi demonstrated his commitment to the development of Ayere by supporting community development initiatives with the sum of ₦1.2 million. The gesture reflects his belief that meaningful leadership goes beyond titles and public recognition; it must also be demonstrated through practical contributions that improve people's lives and support the collective aspirations of the community.
His financial support was warmly received as a demonstration of goodwill and a commitment to the continued growth of Ayere. At a time when communities need individuals who are willing to contribute to their development, his intervention underscores the importance of partnership between traditional institutions, community leaders, and well-meaning individuals.
Speaking on his commitment to the community, Omoluabi Bode Adeyemi reaffirmed his determination to do more for Ayere Kingdom, expressing his readiness to continue supporting initiatives that will promote development, strengthen community bonds, and create opportunities for the people.
His promise to do more further highlights his belief in sustained community engagement rather than one-time gestures. It also reflects a broader vision of development in which individuals, traditional institutions, and other stakeholders work together to build stronger, more prosperous, and united communities.
The Ayere Day celebration also served as a reminder of the importance of preserving cultural values, honouring deserving individuals, and encouraging collective responsibility in the pursuit of progress. Traditional festivals such as Ayere Day remain important platforms for promoting unity, celebrating heritage, and mobilising support for community advancement.
Omoluabi Bode Adeyemi emergence as the Atayese of Ayere Kingdom adds a new dimension to his relationship with the community, placing greater significance on his role in supporting its aspirations and contributing to its continued development.
For many, the combination of the traditional honour and his ₦1.2 million contribution sends a strong message about the importance of connecting recognition with responsibility and leadership with service.
As Ayere Kingdom looks towards the future, the expectation is that the renewed commitment demonstrated during the 2026 celebration will inspire further collaboration, development-oriented initiatives, and lasting partnerships for the benefit of the people.
With his promise to do more, Hon. Omoluabi Bode Adeyemi has reaffirmed his willingness to remain part of Ayere's development journey, ensuring that the honour of Atayese is accompanied by continued dedication to the community's progress.
The 2026 Ayere Day celebration will therefore be remembered not only for its cultural significance and the honour bestowed on Omoluabi Bode Adeyemi, but also for his ₦1.2 million contribution and renewed pledge to support the development of Ayere Kingdom.
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Senator Sunday Karimi, who represents Kogi West Senatorial District in the National Assembly, reportedly faced a hostile reception at the 2026 Ayere Day celebration, as some youths expressed their displeasure with his representation, unleashing chants of “Karimi Failure” and “Karimi Ole” in a dramatic display of political dissatisfaction.
The incident reportedly occurred when the senator was called upon to address the gathering. What should have been an opportunity to speak to constituents and engage the community allegedly turned into a tense moment, as some youths openly voiced their frustration over what they described as his disappointing performance.
The chants reverberated through the gathering, turning attention away from the cultural significance of Ayere Day and towards the growing controversy surrounding the senator's reception among some attendees.
The reported chants of “Karimi Failure” and “Karimi Ole” became the defining expressions of the incident, reflecting the anger and dissatisfaction displayed by some of the youths present.
Their reaction suggested that they were unhappy with the level of representation they believed Kogi West had received and wanted their grievances heard publicly.
For the youths involved, the occasion provided a platform to express their discontent with a sitting senator whose performance, in their assessment, had fallen short of their expectations.
The incident also raises a fundamental question about political accountability: how should elected representatives respond when constituents publicly express disappointment with their leadership?
The atmosphere reportedly became more volatile when Senator Karimi was invited to speak.
According to the account of the incident, some of his supporters allegedly became involved in a physical confrontation in an apparent attempt to disrupt the event amid the growing tension.
The reported altercation threatened to undermine the peaceful atmosphere of the celebration, raising concerns about the ability of political disagreements to spill over into community gatherings intended to promote unity and cultural pride.
For some of the youths who reportedly protested, the issue was not simply the senator's presence at Ayere Day but their dissatisfaction with his performance as their representative.
Their reaction underscores the importance of constituency engagement, transparent communication, and tangible contributions to the communities elected officials are entrusted to serve.
A senator's performance should ultimately be assessed through verifiable legislative contributions, constituency interventions, development initiatives, and responsiveness to the needs of the people.
Where dissatisfaction exists, the responsibility of leadership is to listen, explain, engage, and demonstrate results not to allow political disagreements to degenerate into confrontation.
Citizens have the right to criticise elected officials peacefully, while politicians and their supporters have a responsibility to respect opposing views and avoid violence.
The reported chants of “Karimi Failure” and “Karimi Ole” have placed the senator's public reception at Ayere Day under the spotlight.
Whether the incident reflects a wider political mood across Kogi West remains to be established. Nevertheless, the reported confrontation highlights the intensity that political disagreements can generate when constituents believe their expectations have not been met.
For Senator Karimi, the most constructive response to such criticism would be to address the concerns raised, present verifiable evidence of his achievements, and engage openly with the people he represents.
The true measure of political leadership is not the reception an elected official receives at a public gathering, but the record of service, accountability, and development that can be demonstrated to the people.
