Emmanuel lkpeama.
The Kogi State Government has taken a major step toward revitalizing its broadcast infrastructure with plans to construct a permanent operational base for Radio Kogi, Okeneba, while also approving funds for the rehabilitation of critical transmission facilities at the station.
The Commissioner for Information and Communications, Hon. Kingsley Femi Fanwo, disclosed the development on Tuesday during the presentation of a cheque to the landowner for the acquisition of land earmarked for the project.
Fanwo said the initiative reflects the commitment of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo’s administration to strengthening government-owned media platforms and ensuring that communities across the state have access to quality information and public communication services.
According to him, Radio Kogi stations in Lokoja, Ochaja and Egbe currently operate from permanent structures, making Okeneba the only station without a befitting operational base.
Describing the situation as long overdue for correction, the Commissioner assured staff and residents that the government is determined to reward the station’s years of sacrifice with a modern facility that will enhance broadcasting operations and improve service delivery.
“This project is not just about erecting a building; it is about strengthening communication, promoting inclusion and ensuring that the people of Kogi Central have a stronger voice in the governance process,” Fanwo stated.
He noted that the proposed permanent structure would stand as one of the landmark achievements of the Ododo administration in the information and communications sector, further positioning Radio Kogi as a strategic tool for public enlightenment, civic engagement and cultural promotion.
The Commissioner also commended the staff of Radio Kogi Okeneba for their resilience and dedication despite operating under challenging conditions over the years.
In another significant development, Fanwo announced that Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has approved funds for the replacement of faulty equipment that forced the station off the air for more than eight weeks.
He expressed optimism that the rehabilitation work would soon restore transmission services and enable the station to resume operations with improved efficiency and wider reach.
Apologizing to listeners for the temporary disruption, he assured residents of Kogi Central that the government remains committed to delivering better broadcasting services and preserving the cultural heritage, values and aspirations of the people through the station’s programmes.
The Commissioner further appreciated the host community for its support and cooperation, emphasizing that the success of the project would strengthen the partnership between government and the people.
The twin interventions—the construction of a permanent station and the rehabilitation of transmission facilities—highlight Governor Ododo’s resolve to modernize Kogi State’s media infrastructure and ensure that public broadcasting continues to serve as an effective platform for information dissemination, cultural preservation and citizen engagement.
The Commissioner’s entourage included the Director-General of the Kogi State Broadcasting Corporation, Princess Nana Hauwa Yussuff; the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Information and Communications, Mr. Awulu Tijani David; the Technical Assistant to the Ministry, Mr. Ebenezer Adurodija; the Director of Accounts, Mr. Haruna Yakubu; and other senior officials of the ministry.