The Kogi State Government has vowed to take the battle against criminal activities directly to the hideouts of offenders, signaling a shift from defensive to offensive security strategies.

Speaking during a TrustTV News programme, Daily Politics, on Tuesday, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media, Ismaila Isah, emphasized that Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo is committed to safeguarding lives and property through consistent security operations.

According to Isah, the administration has adopted an aggressive approach to confronting crime, targeting criminals even before they strike.

“We are perhaps the only state in Nigeria taking the fight to the criminals in their hideouts rather than waiting for them to attack,” Isah said.

He revealed that the state government has maintained ongoing clearance operations, particularly around border areas shared with Kwara, Ekiti, Nasarawa, Benue, Ondo, and six other states, including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The spokesman highlighted the government’s strategy of collaborating with neighboring states to rid border areas of criminal elements. “Criminals often take refuge in forests along these borders, but we have remained consistent in flushing them out,” he added.
Isah outlined the administration’s efforts to strengthen security infrastructure by partnering with the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA), the military, and paramilitary agencies.

He noted that the government had earlier equipped security forces with over 300 vehicles and hundreds of motorcycles while recruiting and reorganizing nearly 3,000 vigilantes and local hunters.
These groups, earning wages above the state’s minimum wage, now form the backbone of community policing efforts.

Building on Past Successes

While acknowledging the contributions of former Governor Yahaya Bello, Isah credited the previous administration for overhauling the security framework, which earned the state recognition for its safety standards.
Governor Ododo’s government, he assured, has consolidated and expanded these efforts to sustain progress.
Addressing concerns about a mining ban, Isah clarified that the government only suspended local licensing to curb illegal mining activities that posed security threats.
“With sanity restored in the sector, we are now open to welcoming investors,” he said.
Isah praised the dedication of security operatives in Kogi, describing them as courageous and patriotic.
“These officers are among the best in the country. They continuously risk their lives to protect our citizens, and we are proud to support them,” he concluded.
With this renewed focus on proactive security measures and inter-state collaboration, the Ododo administration aims to make Kogi a model for combating insecurity in Nigeria.

The recent vote of confidence passed by the Kogi East Renaissance Group in favor of Senator Jibrin Isah Echocho has ignited conversations about regional empowerment and the urgent need for strategic development in Kogi East. Beyond the commendations, the endorsement highlights a growing call for leaders who can transform grassroots support into tangible progress.

Senator Echocho’s approach to leadership has been defined by accessibility and responsiveness, qualities that have endeared him to his constituents. The Kogi East Renaissance Group, led by Ibrahim Audu, praised him not only for his advocacy in national policies but also for prioritizing community-focused projects.
Speaking at the Abuja gathering, Audu emphasized, “Senator Echocho has proven that leadership is about understanding and addressing the needs of the people. His commitment to engaging with constituents has created a roadmap for sustainable development.”

Echocho’s track record includes infrastructure development, youth empowerment programs, and pushing for Kogi’s recognition as an oil-producing state—an achievement that is expected to boost economic opportunities for the region.
Observers note that Echocho’s leadership style blends national advocacy with local impact, making him a model for modern governance. His initiatives, such as the commissioning of vocational training centers and educational infrastructure, reflect an understanding that regional growth depends on strengthening human capital.

Local analyst Samuel Okolo remarked, “Echocho’s focus on grassroots projects has restored faith in political representation. His ability to balance policy advocacy with practical interventions sets him apart.”
The Renaissance Group’s endorsement has also been framed as a call to action for Kogi East to claim a more prominent role in national governance. Audu stressed the need for the region to harness Echocho’s leadership to break into higher levels of influence.
“We need to build on this momentum to secure stronger representation at the national level. Echocho has laid the foundation, but it’s up to us to rally behind him and push for broader reforms,” Audu said
While Echocho’s achievements have drawn praise, they have also set higher expectations for the future. Community leaders are calling for more policies focused on infrastructure, agriculture, and youth development to address unemployment and poverty.
In response, Echocho reaffirmed his commitment to inclusive governance. “Leadership is a continuous process. My goal is to keep delivering results that improve lives and strengthen our position in the national dialogue,” he stated.
As Echocho continues to champion policies that resonate with the grassroots, his leadership style is inspiring a shift in how representation is viewed in Kogi East. The Renaissance Group’s endorsement underscores the growing demand for leaders who can combine accessibility with results-driven governance.
For many in Kogi East, Echocho’s rise represents not just hope but a roadmap for achieving greater political and economic influence—one rooted in collaboration, service, and accountability.

Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has been commended for introducing policies and programs aimed at transforming Kogi State’s economy through agriculture, tourism, and industrial development.

Speaking on KAFTANTV’s live programme, The Polity, the Governor’s Special Adviser on Media, Ismaila Isah, described Ododo as a proactive and well-prepared leader whose policies are already reshaping governance in the state.

According to Isah, Governor Ododo’s experience under the previous administration provided him with insights into governance, positioning him to tackle challenges and implement reforms effectively.

Breaking Away from the Past
While acknowledging the administration’s commitment to continuity, Isah emphasized that Governor Ododo has demonstrated independence in governance by focusing on initiatives that differ from past approaches.

“Governor Ododo is charting his own course with policies that prioritize food security, economic diversification, and job creation,” Isah said.

He highlighted the administration’s efforts to revamp agriculture and shift the focus of the mining sector from raw material exports to local processing, aiming to create employment and industrial growth.
Kogi State, with its 32 commercially viable minerals, is pushing for investments in mining that go beyond extraction. Isah revealed that Governor Ododo has engaged international investors, including the Chinese Consular General, to establish factories and processing plants in the state.
“We’re not just looking at mining for exports anymore,” Isah explained. “The focus is now on creating value chains, establishing industries, and providing jobs for our people.”
The administration has also identified tourism as a key driver of economic growth, with plans to modernize cultural festivals and promote Kogi’s rich heritage.

Isah noted that the recent Kogi International Carnival showcased the state’s potential, and further collaborations with investors are expected to position Kogi as a prime tourism destination.

“Our approach links tourism development with other sectors to ensure inclusive growth,” Isah said.
As Governor Ododo approaches his first year in office, Isah said the anniversary would be used as an opportunity to take stock of achievements and assess areas requiring improvement.
“The focus will be on listening to the people and evaluating feedback to strengthen policies for sustainable development,” Isah stated.
With a focus on agriculture, industrialization, and tourism, Governor Ododo’s administration is setting the stage for long-term growth in Kogi State. Residents and investors are optimistic that the governor’s reforms will create jobs, enhance infrastructure, and unlock the state’s economic potential.