The All Progressives Congress (APC) officially presented its gubernatorial candidate, Usman Ahmed Ododo, with the party’s flag for the upcoming gubernatorial election on November 11, 2023. The presentation took place in Lokoja, the state capital, and was presided over by the party’s national chairman, Dr. Umar Ganduje, during the launch of its campaign,leadership reports.
During his address, Ododo made a commitment to run an inclusive government if elected, emphasizing that he does not harbor any ethnic agenda. He stressed that his sole agenda is the development of Kogi State, which he referred to as the “Kogi State Development Agenda.”
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At the event, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, announced that funds had been approved for the reconstruction of major federal roads in the state. Shettima urged APC leaders and members to vote for Ododo in the election to ensure that Kogi State continues to experience development and access to infrastructure.
He stated, “The president is a man who is filled with ideas on how to propel Nigeria and Kogi State forward. Kogi cannot afford to have a governor who would be at odds with the federal government. To enable the people of Kogi State to benefit from the president’s eight-point agenda and the state’s natural resources, it is crucial that they vote for a young, mature, and patriotic leader who understands the realities of development and will continue the developmental mandate.”
Shettima also disclosed that the President had approved funds for the reconstruction of Ganaga Road, the Abuja-Lokoja-Okene Road, and the Kabba-Ilorin Road, which would receive immediate federal attention.
Highlighting the significance of the Ajaokuta Steel plant to the state and the country, Shettima noted that the President had appointed a prominent Kogi native as the Minister of Steel Development. This appointment aims to promote, preserve, and protect the interests of the people of Kogi in realizing the full potential of the Ajaokuta Steel complex, which will contribute to the employment of labor in Nigeria.
In his welcome address, Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for providing support that enabled the state to make significant progress and achieve its current status. He also thanked Dr. Umar Ganduje for his contributions to the party’s success.
Bello emphasized the importance of continuity and urged everyone to support Alhaji Usman Ahmed Ododo in building upon the foundation laid for the state’s development.
