FIC Report (Kogi State) – The Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has urged the Federal Government to increase the participation of Kogi indigenes in the nation’s security architecture to reflect the state’s strategic importance and contribution to national development.
Governor Ododo made the appeal on Tuesday in Lokoja while declaring open the Course 34 National Defence College (NDC) Study Tour to Kogi State, themed “Solid Minerals and Harnessing National Security.”
Represented by his Deputy, Comrade Salifu Joel Oyibo, the governor said the study tour’s focus on enhancing national security aligns with his administration’s commitment to consolidating security and deepening collaboration with security agencies for maximum results.
Ododo emphasized that security and development are interdependent, noting that his administration is investing heavily in infrastructure, agriculture, education, healthcare, and the solid minerals sector to create jobs, reduce poverty, and minimize the socio-economic factors that fuel insecurity
“Through initiatives such as the Kogi Enterprise Development Agency, the Agricultural and Youth Empowerment Programme, we are building an economy that promotes peace, productivity, and sustainable growth,” he stated.
He described Kogi as “a microcosm of Nigeria,diverse, strategic, and rich in potential,” adding that the visit offers participants an opportunity to gain deeper insights into the dynamics between governance, security, and development at the subnational level.
The Secretary to the Government of Kogi State, Mrs. Folashade Arike Ayoade, also called on the Federal Government to introduce 13% derivation for mineral-producing states, similar to what is obtainable in oil-producing states.
“If mineral derivation is implemented, Kogi would be one of the richest states in Nigeria. Out of the 40 minerals identified nationwide, 38 are found in Kogi,” she said.
The Provost, Centre for Strategic Research and Studies, NDC Abuja, Prof. Adam Okene Ahmed, who led the delegation, explained that this year’s theme, “Optimising Capacity for Industrialisation to Enhance Security and Development,” would guide participants in exploring Kogi’s solid mineral potential.
He said the team would visit Obajana and Ajaokuta to gain firsthand knowledge of the sites and advise both federal and state governments on addressing challenges in the sector.
The Security Adviser to the Governor, Retired Commodore Jerry Duro Omadara, highlighted Kogi’s strategic location between northern and southern Nigeria, as well as its abundant mineral resources, as both an asset and a challenge.
“Kogi has become a target for banditry, kidnapping, and insurgent activities due to its central position and wealth of resources. However, the government’s zero-tolerance approach and synergy among security agencies have significantly improved the situation,” he said.
Omadara added that youth empowerment remained a key strategy in curbing crime.
“When youths have tools in their hands and hope in their hearts, they are less likely to be recruited by criminals,” he noted.
Participants of the study tour include officers from the Army, Navy, Air Force, civil servants, and international delegates, who are expected to make recommendations on strengthening the link between security and resource governance.
Signed
Maryam Abubakar Gulma
CIPRO
Federal Information Centre Lokoja
11th November, 2025
