By Friday Idachaba, Lokoja

Human rights advocate and Executive Director of Conscience for Human Rights and Conflict Resolution (CHRCR), Mr. Idris Miliki Abdul, has raised an alarm over the dire state of Kogi’s transport sector, urging the government to declare a “State of Emergency” in the sector.
In a statement issued in Lokoja, Miliki criticized the over-reliance on private operators, leaving citizens stranded and the state’s transport infrastructure in shambles.
He lamented the collapse of the once-functional state transport company, which previously managed intra- and inter-city shuttles but has now become defunct.
“Workers, students, and citizens are struggling to commute to workplaces, schools, places of worship, and business centers,” he said.
Miliki highlighted Kogi’s strategic location, bordered by nine states and the Federal Capital Territory, with an average of 10,000 vehicles passing through daily. Yet, he noted, the state has no functional commercial fleet, airport, or investment in water transportation, despite being home to the Rivers Niger and Benue.
“Over 32 years, successive administrations have ignored these God-given resources, even as yearly floods wreak havoc on communities,” he added.
The activist stressed that revitalizing the transport sector could create jobs, boost revenue, and significantly improve the lives of Kogi citizens.
“We urge the current administration to prioritize investment in this critical sector for the benefit of all,” Miliki concluded.

Traditional rulers across Kogi State are stepping up to play a pivotal role in the government’s efforts to transform the primary healthcare system.
At a stakeholders’ meeting in Lokoja, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo announced sweeping reforms targeting improved accountability, service delivery, and community engagement in the state’s Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs).

Represented by his Deputy, Comrade Joel Salifu, the Governor emphasized the inclusion of traditional institutions in the reform process.
“Our traditional rulers are the custodians of our communities. Their active involvement in monitoring and supervising healthcare delivery is crucial to ensuring that these reforms succeed,” he said.

The Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, His Royal Majesty Ahmed Tijani Muhammed Anaje, echoed this sentiment, describing the healthcare revitalization efforts as a turning point for rural communities.
“The wellbeing of our people begins with accessible and effective healthcare. We, as traditional leaders, are committed to supporting the government’s vision by overseeing the proper functioning of PHCs in our domains,” he remarked.

This partnership is a cornerstone of the administration’s strategy to strengthen the healthcare value chain.
The government plans to conduct periodic spot checks of PHCs in collaboration with local governments and traditional rulers to ensure consistent service delivery.

Dr. Abdulazeez Adams, the State Commissioner for Health, lauded the commitment of the traditional leaders, revealing that funding has already been provided to operationalize at least one PHC in each of Kogi’s 239 wards.
Plans are underway to increase this number and enhance the quality of services.

The reforms aim to address pressing health challenges, including maternal and infant mortality and low immunization rates.
Governor Ododo assured that these efforts will be anchored on data-driven decision-making and adherence to global best practices in healthcare management.

As the collaboration unfolds, traditional rulers are poised to bridge the gap between the government and the grassroots, ensuring that the vision for a robust healthcare system becomes a reality for all Kogi citizens.

The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), in partnership with the Federal Government, has commenced the establishment of five Mini Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) plants in Ajaokuta Local Government Area of Kogi State. This milestone comes on the heels of relentless advocacy by Senator Natasha Akpoti Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central District in the Senate.

Senator Natasha, a staunch advocate for leveraging Kogi’s vast natural gas resources, played a pivotal role in bringing this initiative to fruition. Her consistent efforts and collaboration with the NNPC leadership have positioned Ajaokuta as a key player in Nigeria’s clean energy transition.

Speaking about the project, Senator Natasha, who chairs the Senate Committee on Local Content, highlighted the transformative potential of the LNG plants. “This is the result of a shared vision for progress. These plants will not only provide affordable, eco-friendly energy but also create jobs, attract investments, and boost industrialization in our region,” she stated.

The Mini LNG plants are designed to supply clean energy to households and industries, addressing persistent energy challenges while promoting environmental sustainability. The project also aligns with the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development Act (2010), ensuring local expertise is leveraged in the construction and operation of the plants.

Senator Natasha commended the NNPC and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for their support, noting that the establishment of the LNG plants demonstrates a commitment to sustainable development and regional empowerment.

“This collaboration underscores the importance of effective governance and partnership in driving economic growth and improving the lives of our people,” she added.

By turning Senator Natasha’s vision into reality, the NNPC has set Ajaokuta on a path toward becoming an energy hub, showcasing the power of advocacy, leadership, and institutional cooperation in driving Nigeria’s clean energy agenda.