……… Targets Wider Broadcast Reach.
Emmanuel Clement
The Kogi State Government has commenced the construction of a new Radio Kogi station building at Okeneba, Okene Local Government Area, as part of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo’s drive to reposition the Kogi State Broadcasting Corporation and widen its broadcast coverage. 
The project, which has been awarded to Widerview Ltd, is aimed at strengthening the state’s broadcasting infrastructure and ensuring effective information dissemination to all parts of Kogi and beyond.
The official handover of the project site to the contractor was performed by the Commissioner for Housing and Urban Development, Hon. Taiye Abanika; the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Hon. Kingsley Femi Fanwo; and the Director-General of the Kogi State Broadcasting Corporation, Princess Nana Awa Yusuf.
The development is in line with the State Executive Council’s recent approval for the upgrade of facilities at the Corporation’s Okene and Ochaja stations, as well as the renovation and rebranding of its headquarters in Lokoja.
Speaking at the ceremony, Hon. Abanika said the project reflects Governor Ododo’s resolve to touch every sector with impactful infrastructure.
“Information is key to development. This government believes broadcasters deserve a befitting and serene environment to do their job and reach every nook and cranny of the state. That is why we are building this Radio House in Okene,” he said.
Hon. Abanika added that the handover marks another milestone in the administration’s inclusive development agenda.
Also speaking, Hon. Fanwo described the project as a historic turning point for Radio Kogi Okene, which had operated for decades from a location with transmission limitations.
Fanwo, who formally handed over the site to Widerview Ltd, commended Governor Ododo for approving the project and for prioritizing the upgrade of the state’s information architecture.
The State Consultant, Engr. Kabir, said the Okeneba site was carefully selected for its elevated terrain, which makes it ideal for wider signal coverage. He noted that though the rocky nature of the location will require extra technical work, his team will ensure strict adherence to design and quality standards.
In her remarks, the DG of the Broadcasting Corporation, Princess Nana Awa Yusuf, described the project as a landmark achievement for the Corporation. She thanked Governor Ododo for the approval and appreciated Hon. Fanwo for his relentless push for the project.
She urged youths and residents of Okeneba to protect the facility and cooperate with the contractor for timely completion.
On his part, Architect Jonathan Bulus, who represented Widerview Ltd, assured the government of quality delivery, promising to complete the project within 16 weeks despite the challenges posed by the rocky terrain.
The community youth leader, Malam Yahaya Bello, expressed excitement over the project, describing it as a pride to the Okeneba community. He pledged the community’s full support and cooperation with the contractor.
