Youth Must Join Hands With Present Govt To Take Kogi, Nigeria To Level Of Economic, Infrastructural Develop – Gov. Ododo

By Abubakar Suleman

The Governor of Kogi state, Ahmed Usman Ahmed Ododo, has called on youths to join hands with government in order to take kogi state and Nigeria to another level of economic and infrastructural development.

Governor Ododo made the call during the Nigeria’s 64th Independence Day celebration held in Lokoja, Kogi state.

The governor who was represented by the Auditor General for Local Government, Honourable Yakubu Siyaka Adabenege, however, charged youths to embrace their roles as the drivers of the nation’s future.

While stressing the importance of unity and collective effort in building a prosperous Nigeria, Governor Ododo emphasized the vital role young people play in the nation’s development and called for improved innovation, entrepreneurship, and social responsibility among the youth.

“The future of Nigeria rests in your hands. It is only by joining hands together with government at all levels that we can make Nigeria succeed. We must move beyond the challenges of today and work together as single indivisible entity to create a better tomorrow.” he stated.

The governor commended the resilience and potential of Kogi State and Nigerian youth, urging them to take advantage of opportunities in various sectors, including technology, agriculture, and entrepreneurship, to drive the country’s transformation.

He also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to youth empowerment and development through various initiatives aimed at harnessing their talents and ideas for national progress.

Governor Ododo who also mentioned some of the challenges facing the country, which include unemployment, insecurity, and poor infrastructure, assured the youth that his administration will collaborate with federal government toward finding solution to the challenges.

Earlier, the Kogi State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Hon. Monday Anyebe in his remark, emphasized the critical role of Nigerian youth in the country’s future.

Speaking on the theme “From Independence to Innovation: The Youth as Catalyst for Nigeria’s Transformation,” Anyebe stressed the importance of empowering young people as the key drivers of national development.

Reflecting on Nigeria’s journey since gaining independence in 1960, Hon. Anyebe acknowledged both the challenges and achievements, noting that despite setbacks, the nation’s resolve to progress remains steadfast.

“At 64, Nigeria is still a youthful nation,” he said, pointing out that over 60% of the population is made up of young people.

According to the Commissioner, this demographic is not just the future of the country but also the force propelling its current growth.

Hon. Anyebe praised the leadership of Kogi State Governor Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, commending his vision for youth empowerment.

He noted that the state government, under Governor Ododo, has made youth development a priority by fostering an environment that encourages entrepreneurship, skills development, and technological advancement.

He also lauded the contributions of former Governor Alhaji Yahaya Bello, emphasizing that both administrations have worked tirelessly to ensure the prosperity of Kogi’s youth.

As Nigeria commemorates 64 years of independence, Hon. Anyebe called on all Nigerians to reflect on the past while envisioning a future led by the youth.

He urged continued support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who, according to Anyebe, is working hard to modernize the nation.

On his part, the representative of the Chief of Staff to Kogi State Governor, Hon. Abdulrazaq Suleiman, praised the youths of Kogi State for their resilience and support for the administration, urging them to continue to be worth ambassadors of the state.

He said although the hardship the country is currently passing through didn’t start today, he however expressed optimism that the leadership of president Tinubu and governor Ododo at the state level are implementing policies to better the economy and lives of Nigerians.

The panel discussion that followed featured key voices from the public and private sectors, all focused on the ways in which Nigerian youth can lead the charge for innovation and growth. Participants called for increased government support, as well as private sector partnerships, to foster the entrepreneurial spirit among the younger generation.