By Abubakar Shuaibu A.
Kogi State’s long journey to becoming an oil-producing state reached another milestone as pioneer leaders of the Kogi State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (KOSOPADEC) were sworn in, setting the stage for transparency, empowerment, and development in oil-bearing communities.
Oil was first discovered in Ibaji in 1952, before Nigeria’s independence. But for decades, disputes with neighbouring Edo and Anambra turned the discovery into a source of conflict, leading to destroyed homes, maimed citizens, and tragic loss of lives.
The breakthrough came under former Governor Yahaya Bello, CON, who, in October 2022, announced that Kogi had received its first 13% derivation allocation. This was further confirmed by the Nigerian Senate in February 2024, officially recognizing Kogi as an oil-producing state.
Building on this foundation, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo—popularly known as Chief Servant and Promise Keeper—ensured that KOSOPADEC became fully operational. The appointees, cleared by the Kogi State House of Assembly, were sworn in by Secretary to the State Government, Mrs. Folashade Arike Ayoade, Ph.D.
The pioneer leadership team includes:
Management Team: Omonu Jackson (MD), Suleiman Ndalaye (Chairman), Rt. Hon. (Prince) Olushola Mathew Kolawole, Engr. Isah Yakubu Jatto, Usman Nda Muhammed, Abubakar Tenimu Musa, Alhassan Obansa Sanni, and Suleiman Hameed (Secretary).
Community Representatives:
Mr. Anejodo Emmanuel Agwuja (Anocha), Dr. Omattah Emmanuel Abuh (Odeke), Barr. Onema Edoja John (Ihile), Comr. Amajeh Felix Ele-Ojo (Echeno), and Alogwuja Utenwuojo (Obale).
In her remarks, Mrs. Ayoade said:
“This swearing-in marks the beginning of a new chapter in Kogi’s development. We expect the appointees to uphold integrity, transparency, and diligence in ensuring that every project positively impacts the lives of our oil-producing communities.”
Managing Director, Omonu Jackson, also pledged:
“We thank the Chief Servant and Promise Keeper, His Excellency Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, for trusting us with this responsibility. By the grace of God, we will deliver on our mandate.”
KOSOPADEC is tasked with implementing projects in infrastructure, healthcare, education, and youth empowerment. With Governor Ododo’s vision and the dedication of the pioneer team, Kogi’s oil wealth is being transformed into empowerment, progress, and sustainable development.
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