Governor Ododo Flags Off Rural Electrification Project for 30 Kogi Communities

By Micheal Chukwuebuka

Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has launched the distribution and installation of 30 units of 500kVA transformers aimed at boosting electricity supply and driving rural development across 30 communities in the state’s three senatorial districts.

Speaking during the official flag-off of the first phase of the statewide rural electrification project at the Government House in Lokoja, Governor Ododo described the initiative as a major milestone in his administration’s commitment to light up communities and empower residents.

“It is with great pride and a profound sense of duty that I flag off the first phase of the distribution and installation of 30 units of 500kVA transformers strategically distributed across the three senatorial districts of our beloved state,” the governor said.

He explained that the project was initiated in direct response to requests from communities through the Ministry of Rural and Energy Development, stressing that each demand was handled with urgency in line with his administration’s people-centred approach.

Governor Ododo noted that the distribution of the transformers would be guided by fairness and balance to ensure even development across the state.

“In the spirit of fairness and equity, I have directed that these 30 transformers be distributed across the three senatorial districts. This ensures that the benefits of this crucial infrastructure project are felt simultaneously and equitably across our state,” he added.

He emphasised that the initiative was not merely about electricity supply but a strategic investment in commerce, education, healthcare, and the overall quality of life for Kogi citizens.

“Electricity is critical to our industrial drive and our determination to light up rural areas to enhance livelihoods and agriculture. It is about lighting lives, powering education, driving industry, supporting healthcare, and strengthening community security. This project speaks to the truth that every part of Kogi State matters,” the governor stated.

Ododo reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to implementing projects with direct benefits to the people, promising that subsequent phases of the electrification programme would extend to more communities across the state.

He also appealed to residents to safeguard the transformers against vandalism and ensure their proper use for the collective good.

Earlier, the Commissioner for Rural and Energy Development, Engr. Abdulmutalib Mohammed, said the project aligns with the ministry’s mandate to improve living standards in rural areas.

He explained that the ministry undertook a rigorous technical assessment of community needs before selecting beneficiaries for the first phase, assuring that more communities would be covered in subsequent stages.

Mohammed commended Governor Ododo for his responsiveness to the needs of rural dwellers who had endured years of inadequate power supply, noting that the project would significantly enhance livelihoods and stimulate local economic activities.