By Abubakar Rajab
Fellow Kogites,
On this occasion of Democracy Day, I extend warm felicitations to every son and daughter of Kogi State. May this symbolic day remind us not only of our right to be governed by consent but also of our collective responsibility to shape the course of our beloved state through unity, wisdom, and service.
Our democratic journey has not been without challenges, yet it has been marked by resilience. Like a river navigating rocky beds, Kogi has flowed forward—sometimes swiftly, sometimes slowly, but always with purpose. Today, as we reflect, we must look both backward with gratitude and forward with conviction.
The emergence of His Excellency, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, as Governor came with widespread speculation and cautious expectations. Change often invites scrutiny. The people’s reservation was understandable; leadership is a trust, not a title. Yet, in a short time, the governor has demonstrated sincerity of purpose, inclusivity in governance, and a growing capacity to consolidate gains while charting new frontiers.
His leadership so far reflects calm determination, measured engagement, and a rare ability to listen beyond the noise of praise or criticism. The peace and balance currently felt across the political spectrum are no coincidence. They are the early fruits of a leader committed to equitable service, whose focus is people-centric and development-driven.
However, it would be an injustice not to acknowledge the work of the immediate past administration. Former Governor Yahaya Bello, despite the tumult of the times, laid key foundations in security, infrastructure, and youth empowerment. His bold, sometimes unconventional approaches, contributed to creating the platform on which this current administration now builds. We must appreciate those efforts even as we seek to do better.
To say Kogi was stagnating would be inaccurate. We were, in truth, transitioning—navigating difficult terrain, coping with national economic constraints, and attempting institutional reform. The baton has now been passed, and our expectations have risen, as they rightly should.
Your Excellency, Governor Ododo, as you journey deeper into the mandate entrusted to you, permit me to offer words of guidance and hope. The true mark of governance lies in sustainability and innovation. With your background and wealth of experience, you are well-positioned to lead Kogi into an era of economic awakening.
I humbly propose the convening of a Kogi State Economic and Industrial Summit, specifically focused on mineral resource development and industrial integration. Our land is blessed with vast deposits of iron ore, coal, limestone, and other precious minerals. Many citizens hold viable mining licenses and are eager for public-private synergy.
If harnessed with vision and transparency, our Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) can exceed ₦300 billion annually. Imagine the jobs created, the SMEs empowered, the roads rehabilitated, and the schools and hospitals funded. Let us not allow our wealth to remain buried while our people go hungry. “He who owns a goldmine but sleeps under a leaking roof has misplaced priorities.” This is our moment to correct that.
To my fellow political actors—those within and outside the ruling party—let us dial down the rhetoric and amplify collaboration. We gain nothing by tearing down what we helped build. Opposition is healthy, but opposition for opposition’s sake is a betrayal of the people. Let us act not as gladiators, but as guardians of our shared destiny.
To the fence-sitters and critics waiting for the administration to falter, remember: “No one throws stones at a barren tree.” The Governor’s success is our collective success. His performance will reflect on all of us. Let us be part of the solution.
To those who left the All Progressives Congress (APC) for one reason or another, your choices are respected. Every political journey is personal. But now, a new spirit beckons—one of reconciliation and reintegration. Come back home. Let’s rebuild trust, not perpetuate grudges. No house can weather storms when its pillars fight themselves. Let us strengthen the family, not fracture it.
Finally, to His Excellency, I urge you not to be distracted by voices that seek to sow doubt. Governance is a sacred test, and you have the tools to pass it. Focus on performance. The noise will fade. Achievements will echo. You are a man of calm temperament, quiet wisdom, and boundless potential. Please, galvanize your economic team. Leverage your network. Kogi deserves to be more than a transit state—we must become a destination.
Let us remember, dear compatriots, “A broom sweeps best when its sticks are bound together.” It is not too late to dream again, to collaborate anew, to believe once more in the promise of Kogi.
Together, let us turn our natural endowments into collective prosperity.
Together, let us make democracy meaningful.
Together, let us build the Kogi of our dreams.
Happy Democracy Day.
