Kogi State Governor, Usman Ododo, has inaugurated the newly elected chairmen and vice chairmen of the 21 local government areas across the state, urging them to prioritize the well-being of their communities.
In a statement issued on Monday in Lokoja by the governor’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ismaila Isah, it was noted that the swearing-in ceremony took place at the Government House.
Governor Ododo called on the new local government officials to continue fostering grassroots development by initiating projects and programs aimed at improving the lives of the people.
He also emphasized the importance of safeguarding lives and property and encouraged the chairmen to align with key initiatives of the administration in sectors like health, agriculture, social welfare, and empowerment to uplift their communities.
“There is a need for transparency and accountability in managing the affairs of local governments,” the governor stated. “Your election should serve as a chance to prove the autonomy of local government by focusing on projects that directly benefit the grassroots.”
Describing local government as the most critical and accessible tier of governance, Governor Ododo further advised the chairmen to ensure inclusive decision-making processes, involving all stakeholders to effectively bring governance closer to the people.
In response, Tosin Olokun, chairman of Yagba West Local Government Area, speaking on behalf of the 21 chairmen, pledged their dedication to supporting the state government’s efforts by implementing projects that would transform grassroots communities. He also promised to foster unity, irrespective of political differences, in line with the state government’s development agenda under Governor Ododo.
