By James Sani
The Kogi State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Hon. Aridaojo Monday Anyebe, has congratulated the newly elected Chairman of Olamaboro Local Government Area, Hon. Achor Emmanuel, and the 20 other council chairmen across the state, describing their emergence as an opportunity to deepen grassroots development, strengthen democratic governance and accelerate the delivery of dividends of democracy to the people.
In a congratulatory message, Anyebe commended the successful candidates, particularly the Olamaboro chairman-elect, whose victory he described as a significant responsibility that requires purposeful leadership, accountability and an unwavering commitment to public service.
Extending his goodwill to all 21 elected council chairmen, the commissioner expressed optimism that their respective administrations would promote inclusive governance, responsive leadership and sustainable development in their communities, in line with the development vision of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo.
He also praised the governor for his commitment to democratic principles and inclusive governance, noting that a strong local government system remains essential to bringing government closer to the people and addressing the peculiar needs of communities across the state.
According to Anyebe, effective grassroots administration requires not only visionary leadership but also the judicious management of public resources, institutional accountability and a genuine commitment to improving the living conditions of citizens.
He emphasised that sustainable development begins at the grassroots, where the impact of government policies and programmes is most directly felt by ordinary citizens.
Consequently, he urged the newly elected chairmen to prioritise the welfare of their constituents, improve rural infrastructure, expand opportunities for young people and women, and implement practical initiatives capable of stimulating economic activities within their respective local government areas.
The commissioner further encouraged the council leaders to cultivate harmonious relationships with traditional rulers, community leaders, civil society organisations and other relevant stakeholders, stressing that collaboration among these groups would promote peace, strengthen community participation and facilitate the effective implementation of development programmes.
He noted that local government administrations occupy a strategic position in the delivery of essential services and the advancement of rural communities.
Therefore, the elected chairmen must demonstrate integrity, transparency and fiscal discipline while ensuring that public resources are deployed towards projects and programmes that directly benefit the people.
Anyebe expressed confidence that, with dedication, prudent resource management and a people-oriented approach to governance, the new council chairmen would make meaningful contributions to the administration’s development agenda and advance the overall progress of Kogi State.
He reiterated that their electoral victories should not be regarded merely as political accomplishments but as a solemn mandate to serve the people with diligence, fairness and a strong sense of responsibility.
The commissioner wished Hon. Achor Emmanuel and the other newly elected council chairmen successful and impactful tenures, urging them to justify the confidence reposed in them by delivering tangible results and ensuring that the benefits of democratic governance reach every community across the state.
James Sani
Information Officer
Kogi State Ministry of Youth and Sports Development, Lokoja.