By Friday Idachaba, Lokoja
Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has praised the people of Ekirin-Adde in Ijumu Local Government Area for demonstrating what he described as the power of community-driven development, urging other rural communities to embrace similar self-help initiatives.
Represented by his deputy, Comrade Joel Salifu Oyibo, at the 2026 Ekirin-Adde Day celebration, the governor applauded the community as it launched a ₦750 million development fund to finance critical infrastructure and social projects.
Ododo described the initiative as a model of grassroots participation in governance, saying it reflects the determination of the people to shape their future through collective action rather than waiting solely on government intervention.
He called on communities across Kogi State to replicate the Ekirin-Adde example by partnering with government to provide essential infrastructure and social amenities, stressing that sustainable development can only be achieved through shared responsibility.
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to balanced development across the state, assuring residents that both urban and rural communities would continue to benefit from investments in roads, education, agriculture and other critical sectors.
He noted that the annual Ekirin-Adde Day celebration has evolved beyond a cultural festival into a platform for preserving the community’s heritage while mobilising resources for development.
Ododo also expressed support for President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, saying its policies and programmes are beginning to yield positive results across the country.
In his welcome address, Chairman of Ijumu Local Government Area, Ibrahim Haruna, speaking on behalf of the Chairman of the Occasion, Engr. Olusoji Otitoju, said the annual celebration was conceived to mobilise support for community development while promoting the rich cultural identity of the Ekirin-Adde people.
Haruna said the community remains committed to forging strategic partnerships capable of attracting sustainable development and improving the quality of life of residents.
He also commended Governor Ododo for strengthening security across the area, noting that the improved security situation has restored confidence in communities that previously faced security threats in parts of Okunland.
The council chairman urged residents to remain vigilant and continue supporting security agencies with credible intelligence to combat kidnapping, banditry and other criminal activities.
He further encouraged young people to embrace entrepreneurship and vocational skills, describing self-employment as an increasingly viable pathway to economic empowerment amid limited formal job opportunities.
The event attracted dignitaries from across the country, including representatives of the governors of Ekiti and Borno states.
In a major boost to the community’s fundraising effort, Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, donated ₦50 million to the ₦750 million development fund, while representatives of both governors called on Ekirin-Adde indigenes to remain united in advancing the development of their community.