Kogi reaffirms culture, girl-child education commitment

The Kogi government has reaffirmed its commitment to preserving culture, promoting girl-child education, and strengthening unity across the state.

Gov. Ahmed Ododo, represented by his deputy, Mr Joel Salifu, gave the assurance on Saturday at the 2026 Ovia Osese Cultural Festival finale in Ogori, Kofi.

He described the festival as more than a celebration, saying, “Ovia Osese represents the history, identity and values of the Ogori people.”

He added that it also serves as “a tool for education, tourism and economic development.”

The governor commended organisers, especially Ogori Descendants Union President, Dr Gabriel Aiso, for making the event “bigger and more impactful.”

He stressed the importance of educating and empowering girls, noting that Ogori has become an example, with more girls now attending school.

“The Kogi government remains committed to supporting girls through education and empowerment programmes,” he said.

He recalled that under the AGILE Project, 13,359 girls received financial support to remain in school.

Ododo described Ovia Osese as a major cultural asset, noting it is the only UNESCO-recognised festival in the state.

“The government will continue to support the festival and improve tourism infrastructure to attract more visitors,” he said.

He highlighted achievements in security, road construction, education, healthcare, agriculture and workers’ welfare.

“We have strengthened security, executed major road projects, made basic education free, and improved healthcare services,” he said.

He urged unity across ethnic and social lines, warning against divisions driven by politics or religion.

“Whether we are Ebira, Igala, Okun, Bassa, Nupe, Ogori or Kakanda, we are one people with a common destiny,” he said.

Ododo congratulated the Ogori people on the festival’s success and prayed for continued peace, progress and unity.