Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Ahmed Ododo, has called on journalists to remain courageous in holding government accountable while also partnering to promote the state’s vast economic and investment opportunities.
The governor made the call on Thursday while delivering a speech at the 2026 Press Week of the Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, where he described members of the chapel as critical stakeholders in governance and development.
Ododo, who was represented by Hon. Commissioner for Information and Communication, Kingsley Fanwo said he attended the event “as a friend and beneficiary” of the media’s professionalism, commended journalists for their patriotism, responsibility, and consistent efforts in projecting Kogi State positively to the national and global audience.
According to him, the media has remained “the conscience of the people” and a vital bridge between government and citizens, noting that their work has helped position Kogi as the “Confluence of Opportunities.”
He stressed that his administration does not desire a media that suppresses truth, but one that constructively points out shortcomings and collaborates in finding solutions.
“We do not seek a media that withholds the truth. We want a media that has the courage to point out our shortcomings and the commitment to partner with us in solving them,” he said.
The governor further urged journalists to balance criticism with efforts to showcase the state’s strengths, including its natural resources, agricultural capacity, and strategic location at the confluence of Rivers Niger and Benue.
Highlighting ongoing efforts in security, Ododo said his administration has moved beyond reactive measures, investing heavily in proactive strategies to curb criminality.
While acknowledging that challenges remain, he expressed optimism that the state is making steady progress.
On infrastructure, the governor identified power supply as a key concern, assuring residents that deliberate steps are being taken to improve regulation and strengthen collaboration within the sector to ensure better electricity delivery.
Ododo also used the occasion to commend Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he described as bold economic reforms that have increased resources available to states, enabling greater investments in critical sectors such as education, healthcare, infrastructure, and food production.
He reaffirmed Kogi State’s support for the continuation of the reforms beyond 2027, expressing confidence in their long-term benefits for national development.
The governor concluded by congratulating the Correspondents’ Chapel on a successful Press Week and reiterated his administration’s commitment to maintaining a strong and productive relationship with the media in pursuit of a more prosperous Kogi State.
