Ododo felicitates Kogites on Nigeria’s 65th Independence, urges collective responsibility

By Ezurike Ugochukwu

Kogi State Governor Usman Ododo has felicitated Kogites on Nigeria’s 65th independence anniversary, emphasizing that the occasion is a call to patriotism, unity, and shared responsibility of building a nation guaranteeing peace, justice, and prosperity for all.

Ododo stated this on Wednesday, October 1, during his Independence Day message to Kogi citizens while also mourning victims of a recent Ibaji boat tragedy and highlighting his administration’s people-focused development initiatives.

He said, “Today, as we join millions of Nigerians across the world to celebrate the 65th anniversary of our nation’s independence, we are reminded of the sacrifices of our founding fathers, the resilience of our people, and the unshakable hope that continues to drive us as one nation under God.

“Independence Day is more than a date on our calendar; it is a call to patriotism, to unity, and to the shared responsibility of building a nation that guarantees peace, justice, and prosperity for all. Our strength as a people lies in our collective courage to overcome challenges.

“Even as we celebrate, we do so with heavy hearts over the unfortunate boat mishap in Ibaji Local Government Area, which claimed the lives of our brothers and sisters who were on their way to pursue their daily livelihood. This tragedy reminds us of the fragility of life and the duty we owe one another to continually improve safety and support for our people. On behalf of the Government and the good people of Kogi State, I commiserate with the families of the victims, the Ibaji community, and all who are mourning at this time. We are with you in grief, and we shall not relent in making water transportation safer in our riverine communities.

“Fellow citizens, our administration remains steadfast in advancing the development of Kogi State through people-focused policies, infrastructural renewal, healthcare reforms, educational transformation, agricultural expansion, and improved security. We’re committed to laying foundations that will secure the future of our children.

“We have made education free and accessible in order to guarantee the independence of future generations from ignorance and limitations. Our administration is operating an Education Law that makes basic education compulsory. We’re also breaking barriers to girl-child education by ensuring that education is not only free for every girl, but also supported with cash transfers through the AGILE programme.

“As Nigerians, let’s use this day to renew our love for our country, to shun division, and to rise above fear and doubt. Let’s work together in faith, unity, and courage, because the destiny of this nation is in our hands.

“As patriotic citizens of this great nation, let’s continue to support the laudable reforms of our dear President, His Excellency Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whose bold steps have set a template for sustainable development. As a nation, we are already beginning to reap the fruits of his courage.

“May the labours of our heroes past never be in vain. May Kogi State continue to shine as the Confluence of Opportunities. And may God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”