Emmanuel ClementÂ
The Kogi State Executive Council has endorsed a series of major development projects, reaffirmed improvements in security, and strengthened its alignment with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as part of efforts to accelerate socio-economic growth across the state.
The decisions were reached during the State Executive Council meeting held on Monday in Lokoja, presided over by Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo.
Briefing journalists after the meeting, the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Femi Fanwo, disclosed that the Council expressed satisfaction with the improving security situation across the state, following sustained interventions by the Ododo administration.
According to him, Governor Ododo emphasized that the gains recorded so far would be consolidated, with a strong focus on achieving lasting peace and ensuring the safety of lives and property throughout Kogi State.
The Council also reiterated its commitment to leveraging economic opportunities embedded in the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Federal Government.
Governor Ododo charged members of the Council and other public officials to ensure that national economic policies translate into tangible improvements in the living standards of citizens.
A major highlight of the meeting was the ratification of the construction of a dual carriageway leading to the Kogi International Airport.
The road project, awarded to China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation, is expected to enhance connectivity to the airport while strengthening cargo operations, a key component of the stateâs economic vision.
Similarly, the Council ratified contracts for other critical components of the airport project, including the construction of the main airport infrastructure and perimeter fencing.
While CCECC will handle the core construction works, Gamji Nigeria Company Limited will oversee the perimeter fencing.
The Council stressed strict adherence to global best practices in executing the projects, particularly given the technical standards required in the aviation sector.
The Executive Council also received an update on the Kogi State Innovation Hub, described as a transformative initiative aimed at positioning the state as a center for technological advancement and digital enterprise.
The project is expected to provide opportunities for young people to explore innovation, research, and entrepreneurship.
Officials further noted that beyond its economic benefits, the Innovation Hub is designed as a non-kinetic strategy for crime reduction by productively engaging the stateâs youth population.
The Council reiterated the commitment of the Ododo administration to impactful governance, with emphasis on infrastructure development, security consolidation, and inclusive economic growth across Kogi State.