By Friday Idachaba
Lokoja — Kogi State Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has praised the people of Ekirin-Adde in Ijumu Local Government Area for their commitment to community-driven development, describing their self-help initiatives as a model for grassroots participation in governance.
Represented by his deputy, Joel Salifu Oyibo, at the 2026 Ekirin-Adde Day celebration, Ododo endorsed the launch of a N750 million community development fund aimed at financing critical infrastructure and social projects in the town.
He said the initiative reflected the community’s determination to shape its future through collective responsibility and urged other rural communities across Kogi State to emulate the example by complementing government efforts in providing basic infrastructure and social amenities.
According to the governor, sustainable development can only be achieved through collaboration between government and citizens, adding that his administration remains committed to equitable development across both urban and rural communities.
He assured residents that investments in roads, education, agriculture and other critical sectors would continue across the state.
Ododo described the annual Ekirin-Adde Day celebration as an important platform for preserving the community’s history, culture and identity while mobilising resources for development.
He also commended President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, saying the administration’s policies were beginning to deliver positive outcomes for Nigerians.
Earlier, the Executive Chairman of Ijumu Local Government Area, Ibrahim Haruna, speaking on behalf of the chairman of the occasion, Engr. Olusoji Otitoju, said the annual event was designed to mobilise support for community-led development projects while promoting the cultural heritage of the Ekirin-Adde people.
Haruna said the community remained committed to improving living standards through strategic partnerships capable of attracting sustainable development.
He also applauded Governor Ododo for efforts to strengthen security in parts of Okunland that had previously experienced security challenges.
The council chairman urged residents to support security agencies with credible information to combat kidnapping, banditry and other criminal activities, while encouraging young people to embrace entrepreneurship and vocational skills as alternatives to scarce white-collar jobs.
The celebration also drew national participation, with the governors of Ekiti and Borno states represented at the event.
Governor Babagana Umara Zulum donated N50 million to the N750 million development fund, while representatives of both governors called on Ekirin-Adde indigenes to remain united in supporting the development of their community.