A tragic road accident in Lokoja, Kogi State, has claimed the lives of six individuals and left 60 others injured, sparking fresh concerns over road safety in Nigeria.
The incident occurred on Tuesday around 3:00 p.m. near the Zone 8 Roundabout along Hassan Katsina Road.
According to the Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) in Kogi, Mr. Samuel Oyedeji, an articulated truck traveling from Bauchi to Enugu State lost control, resulting in the devastating crash.
“The prompt response of our officers, in collaboration with the Police and NSCDC personnel, ensured that the injured were rushed to the Kogi Specialist Hospital and the Federal University Teaching Hospital in Lokoja for urgent medical care,” Oyedeji confirmed in a statement.
The remains of the deceased were also deposited at the Federal University Teaching Hospital mortuary.
The crash is another reminder of the urgent need for improved road safety measures, especially in high-traffic areas like Lokoja, a major transit hub for northern and southern Nigeria.

Eyewitnesses reported chaotic scenes as first responders worked tirelessly to manage the aftermath of the accident.
“It was a horrific sight. People were trapped, and it took hours to clear the scene,” said a local resident.
Mr. Oyedeji urged drivers to exercise caution, especially when operating heavy-duty vehicles, and called on the government to intensify efforts in addressing road infrastructure challenges and enforcing traffic regulations.
As investigations continue into the cause of the accident, Nigerians are once again reminded of the shared responsibility to ensure safer roads for all.

By Friday Idachaba, Lokoja

The Obaro of Kabba, HRM Oba Solomon Dele Owoniyi, has praised the groundbreaking academic and structural advancements at Kogi State Polytechnic, Lokoja, under the leadership of its Rector, Prof. Salisu Ogbo Usman.

During a visit to the Polytechnic on Tuesday, Oba Owoniyi highlighted the Rector’s transformative leadership, which has reshaped the institution’s curriculum, operations, and output. He attributed these strides to principles of discipline, integrity, and quality leadership.

The monarch also commended Prof. Ogbo’s humility and respect for traditional institutions, congratulating him on his reappointment and elevation to Professorship.
He reaffirmed his support for the Polytechnic’s management while offering prayers for continued growth.

He stressed that the feat could only be achieved through guiding principles of discipline, industry, determination, service, integrity, sound education and quality leadership.

Oba Owoniyi commended the Rector for his humility and respect for traditional institution which he described as a testament to his character and congratulated him on his reappointment for second term as well as his attainment of Professorship.

The First Class traditional ruler of Oweland reaffirmed his support for the management of the Polytechnic and offered prayers for sustained growth and success of the institution.

Rector of the Polytechnic, Prof. Salisu Ogbo Usman, in his response, appreciated the monarch for what he described as an Inspiring Royal Visit.

He highlighted the Polytechnic’s unique features with its diverse students’ population, attracting students from not less than 26 states across the country.

Prof. Ogbo Usman noted that the spread in the students’ diversity underscored Polytechnic’s commitment to inclusivity, a feature that sets it apart from other institutions.

He described the Royal Father’s visit and commendation for the management as a significant Vote of Confidence on the institution’s leadership.

The Rector said the commendation was also expected to boost the morale of staff and students of the institution. (Ends)

Health stakeholders and community leaders have welcomed the Kogi State Government’s decision to allocate over ₦7 billion to revamp 88 additional Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) across the state.
The move, announced during a handover ceremony in Felele, Lokoja, marks another significant step toward enhancing healthcare delivery for grassroots communities.

Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, represented by the State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Abdulazeez Adams, outlined the project’s objectives, emphasizing its alignment with the administration’s agenda to provide quality healthcare. The project complements the ongoing rehabilitation of 70 PHCs, bringing the total to over 150 upgraded facilities by the end of 2025.
Local health advocates lauded the initiative, highlighting its potential to improve maternal and child health services, immunization programs, and general medical care in underserved areas.
“For years, many communities have struggled with poorly equipped healthcare centers. This upgrade could be a game-changer for rural healthcare access,” said Fatima Suleiman, a community health worker in Dekina LGA.

However, some stakeholders expressed cautious optimism, emphasizing the importance of proper implementation.
“This is a bold plan, but we need transparency in how funds are utilized and rigorous monitoring to ensure timely and quality project delivery,” noted David Okoro, a civil society advocate.
Governor Ododo called on contractors to collaborate with local government authorities and community stakeholders to ensure inclusivity and sustainability. He urged communities to take ownership of the projects by safeguarding personnel, equipment, and completed facilities.
Local government officials have pledged support for the initiative. “We are ready to partner with contractors to ensure these facilities meet the needs of our people,” said Hon. Aisha Abdullahi, chairperson of Ankpa LGA.
The project aligns with the federal government’s focus on universal health coverage. Governor Ododo acknowledged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership and the contributions of former Governor Yahaya Bello in laying the groundwork for the state’s health sector reforms.

With backing from the World Bank, the initiative is targeted to upgrade PHCs to Level-2 facilities, providing comprehensive primary care services.
If successful, the project could serve as a model for other states grappling with healthcare challenges.
While many applaud the initiative, the focus remains on execution.
Health advocates have urged the Kogi Ministry of Health to enforce strict oversight to ensure the project’s success. “This investment is a step in the right direction, but the real impact will depend on how these funds translate into improved services for the people,” said Dr. Ibrahim Musa, a public health expert.

The coming months will reveal whether this ambitious project can deliver on its promise of transforming healthcare in Kogi State.