Governor Ododo Stresses Kogi's Pivotal Role in National Security Framework
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo of Kogi State has articulated a compelling vision, declaring that the safety and security of Kogi are fundamentally intertwined with the overall stability of Nigeria. He underscored that due to the state's strategic geographical positioning, securing Kogi is, in many respects, synonymous with safeguarding the entire nation.
Security as the Foundation for Development
Ododo made these remarks during the Kogi State Security Summit and Fundraising event held in Abuja. He reaffirmed his administration's unwavering commitment to protecting the lives and property of citizens as its paramount responsibility. "Kogi State holds a critical place in Nigeria's security architecture. Securing our state is, in many ways, securing the nation," he asserted.
The governor elaborated that security serves as the essential bedrock for any meaningful development. He issued a stark warning, noting that without sustained peace and stability, economic growth, investment inflows, and broader social progress would remain elusive and unattainable goals for the region.
A Call for Collective Action Against Evolving Threats
Ododo described the summit as a clarion call for collective and coordinated action. He urged all stakeholders, including community leaders, security agencies, and civil society, to renew their dedication and commitment to safeguarding the state. Highlighting the dynamic nature of contemporary security challenges, the governor pointed out that criminal activities have grown increasingly complex and multifaceted.
These threats now encompass a wide spectrum, ranging from kidnapping and banditry to terrorism and sophisticated cybercrime. Ododo emphasized that effectively countering these dangers requires more advanced, intelligence-driven responses and sustained collaboration among all relevant parties.
Insights from Borno's Experience and Cultural Advocacy
In a related development, Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, shared valuable insights during his remarks at the summit. Drawing from Borno's extensive experience in combating insurgency, Zulum stressed that tackling insecurity demands consistent funding, the deployment of modern technology, and a holistic approach that addresses underlying root causes.
He reported that through persistent efforts and support from the federal government, Borno State has successfully reduced insecurity by over 90 percent. However, Governor Zulum cautioned that the ongoing fight against security threats remains highly resource-intensive and requires continuous vigilance and investment.
Meanwhile, a socio-cultural advocacy group known as the Think Yoruba First Organisation Worldwide has entered the discourse, rejecting certain assertions regarding the historical and cultural identity of Yoruba communities in Kwara and Kogi states. The group, in a statement signed by its General Secretary, Dr. Bukola Adeniji, responded to an article by Prof. Farooq Kperogi titled "Tinubu's Yoruba Agenda Risks Deep Rupture in Kwara."
The organisation argued that the article presented a one-sided narrative that could distort public understanding of the socio-political realities in the region. It maintained that Yoruba-speaking communities in parts of Kwara and Kogi possess deep historical roots, with their identity firmly shaped by language, culture, and long-standing settlement patterns, despite Kwara's geographical classification within the North Central zone.
