Emmanuel Clement
It was jubilation galore in Ejule on Thursday as Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo stormed Ofu Local Government Area with a massive empowerment programme for over 1,000 youths and petty traders across Kogi East Senatorial District.
The atmosphere was electric as beneficiaries received motorcycles and ₦50,000 cash support to strengthen their small businesses, improve rural transportation and create sustainable livelihoods for their families. 
Speaking at the event, Governor Ododo thanked the people of Ofu for their steadfast support and assured them that his administration has not forgotten the area despite his inability to visit earlier.
He described Ofu as a strategic community in Kogi’s history and development, and highlighted ongoing interventions in healthcare and education in the area.
The Governor stressed that peace and security remain the foundation for development, and commended the people for their cooperation with security agencies.
He urged beneficiaries to make productive use of the empowerment items, noting that small opportunities, when properly managed, can grow into successful businesses and transform families.
Ododo also applauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the economic reforms that have strengthened state governments to extend support to ordinary Nigerians.
He urged the people to support the President beyond 2027, while appealing for unity among the different ethnic groups in Kogi State, stressing that political differences should never destroy their bonds of brotherhood.
Welcoming the Governor, Deputy Governor, Comrade Joel Salifu Oyibo, described the visit as historic and commended Ododo for his commitment to security, infrastructure and economic empowerment.
He listed ongoing projects in Ejule, including a major healthcare facility, the revitalisation of the Anyigba Road borehole, and the construction and renovation of Ofuloko Primary School, alongside other community interventions.
He also praised the Governor’s security efforts, particularly the recovery of ammunition and arrest of suspected criminals in Edimogo, Ofu LGA.
Oyibo described Ododo as a noiseless achiever whose performance continues to speak louder than criticism, while appreciating former Governor Yahaya Bello for giving the state a leader committed to sustaining development.
He called on the people of Kogi East to maintain their support for the administration, assuring them of continued attention to their welfare and development needs.
Also speaking, Kogi East APC Senatorial Candidate, Chief Joseph Erico Ameh, showered encomiums on Ododo for his people-oriented leadership and consistent commitment to empowering the grassroots.
He particularly thanked the Governor for extending economic opportunities to women and youths and, in a demonstration of his support for the initiative, donated ₦50,000 each to 200 women to further boost their petty trading businesses.
