By Friday Idachaba, Lokoja
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo of Kogi State has called on communities across the state to invest in infrastructure development as a pathway to sustainable growth and improved quality of life.
Speaking through his Deputy, Comrade Joel Oyibo Salifu, the governor made the call on Saturday while launching a ₦600 million Infrastructure Development Fund initiated by the Ekinrin-Adde Community Development Association (EACDA) during the 2025 Ekinrin-Adde Day Festival in Kogi West.
“Infrastructure is the backbone of any developing community. I’m proud of the Ekinrin-Adde community for taking proactive steps toward a brighter, more sustainable future,” Governor Ododo stated.
He commended the community for its visionary leadership, noting that the fund would drive critical projects including road repairs, water supply systems, and improvements to schools and healthcare facilities.
The governor also highlighted recent gains in the state’s security architecture, revealing that 26 suspected kidnappers and collaborators had been apprehended in ongoing crackdowns.
The Chief Launcher, House of Representatives Chief Whip Hon. Usman Bello Kumo, who donated ₦120 million to the fund, described Ekinrin-Adde as a model of unity and cultural pride. He credited his political mentor, Hon. James Abiodun Faleke, a native of the town, for inspiring his participation.
“Faleke is a national figure—principled, detribalized, and a symbol of loyalty. Supporting this initiative is about preserving culture and building a legacy,” Kumo said.
Chairman of the occasion and SSA to the President on Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye, described the event as a “bold developmental step” worthy of emulation. Represented by his wife, Chief (Mrs.) Adunni Enikanolaiye, he called for generous support from citizens and guests.
The National President of EACDA, Elder Deinde Toyin Komolafe, reaffirmed the community’s unity and resolve to pursue excellence:
“Ekinrin-Adde is wired for super achievement. For 32 years, we’ve consistently laid the building blocks of this annual festival, reinforcing the strength of our collective vision.”
Multiple speakers hailed Hon. James Abiodun Faleke as the “architect of modern Ekinrin-Adde”, applauding his decades of commitment to the town’s development and visibility on the national stage.
Prince Babajide Kolade-Otitoju, Chairman of the 2025 Festival Planning Committee and anchor of TVC’s Journalists’ Hangout, emphasized the community’s unity and potential.
“We are indivisible, indomitable, and the pride of Okunland. Our unity under God drives our progress,” he declared.
Among the day’s highlights was the conferment of honorary chieftaincy titles and certificates of recognition on prominent sons and daughters, including Kogi State Commissioner for Information, Chief Kingsley Femi Fanwo, who was honored as Fimogboye of Ekinrin-Adde.
“This honour deepens my connection to Ekinrin-Adde. I’m proud to be considered a son of this soil,” Fanwo said.
The ceremony also featured captivating cultural dances and a celebration of the town’s values of unity, heritage, and self-determination.
