Kogi
Stakeholders React as Kogi Government Commits ₦7 Billion to Revamp 88 PHCs
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.
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo of Kogi State has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Professor Tom Adaba, the first Director-General of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), who died early Saturday at the age of 84.
Describing the late broadcaster and scholar as a “leading light for development in Nigeria and a courageous voice of the people of Ebira land and Kogi State,” Governor Ododo paid tribute to his legacy in media, academia, and public service.
Special Adviser on Media to the Governor, Ismaila Isah in a statement quoted Ododo to have said,
“I am saddened by the death of our father and leader, Professor Tom Adaba, who has gone to be with his maker. Our prayers are with his immediate family, the people of Kogi State, and Nigeria at large for the colossal loss of a man widely regarded as a teacher, mentor, and leader,” he said.
The governor extended condolences to the Ohinoyi of Ebira land, Alhaji Ahmed Tijani Muhammed Anaje, and the entire Ebira community, recognizing Prof. Adaba’s contributions, including his traditional title as the Ohieteohueyi of Ebira land.
Born in 1941, Prof. Adaba achieved several historic firsts, serving as the first Nigerian President of the African Council for Communication Education (ACCE), the first Principal of the Nigeria Television College, and later, the first Director-General of NBC, before retiring in the late 1990s.
May his soul rest in peace.
Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has empowered 500 women from Kogi State’s 21 local government areas, reaffirming the crucial role of women in economic development.
Speaking at the empowerment distribution event at Muhammadu Buhari Square, Lokoja, Mrs. Tinubu—represented by Hajia Sefinat Usman Ododo, wife of the Kogi State Governor and State Coordinator of the Renewed Hope Initiative, stressed the importance of investing in women for national progress.
She stated that the initiative, in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, is designed to promote inclusivity, economic empowerment, and sustainable development, particularly for women. She also revealed that 18,500 women across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones would benefit from the program, starting with the North Central region.
“Empowering women is fundamental to achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly goals 5 and 8, which focus on gender equality and economic growth,” she emphasized.
The program, executed in collaboration with the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on SDGs and the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), provided beneficiaries with essential business tools, including deep-chest freezers, maxi gas cookers with ovens, generators, and industrial grinding machines, to boost entrepreneurship and economic independence.
Mrs. Tinubu urged the beneficiaries to maximize the opportunity, ensuring self-reliance and contributing to the nation’s economic development.
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo of Kogi State has expressed deep grieve over the passing of the District Head of Adavi, Alhaji Salihu Ozi-Salami, who passed away on Wednesday at his residence in Ogaminana, Adavi Local Government Area.
In a condolence message, the Governor described the late Alhaji Salihu Ozi-Salami as a distinguished leader who served his people with honor, dedication, and a deep commitment to peace and unity. He acknowledged his invaluable contributions to the growth and stability of Adavi and the larger Ebira community.
Special Adviser on Media to the
Governor, Ismaila Isah quoted in a statement quoted Ododo to have extended his sympathies to the Ohinoyi of Ebira Land, Alhaji Dr. Ahmed Tijani Muhammed Anaje, the Ohi Otenyiete of Ebira Land, Alhaji Isa Ozi-Salami, who is the deceased’s younger brother, as well as the late leader’s family and the entire Ebira people.
Governor Ododo prayed for Allah’s mercy upon the soul of the departed and for strength and solace for those left behind to bear the loss.
Born in 1939, Alhaji Salihu Ozi-Salami was appointed District Head of Adavi in 1994. He lived a life of service and integrity until his passing at 86. His remains have been laid to rest in accordance with Islamic rites at his residence in Ogaminana.
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