aThe Governor of Kogi State, His Excellency Alhaji Usman Ododo, has flagged off the much awaited maiden Kogi State International Carnival.
The event took place both at the civic center and banquet hall in Government House, Lokoja.
In his address at the occasion the Chief Servant of Kogi State said. “Today we come together as one ethnic group.Kogi State is strategically located excellently as a state where two rivers come together. Rivers Niger and Benue converge here, as a divine merger of our unity and shared destiny.Our History and Geography compel us to rise above divisions and stand united as one beautiful people. Therefore, we must work together to fix our problems and differences. We must work together for greatness and progress as one family.”
His Excellency further stressed that, ” If we don’t value what we have, if we don’t recognize what God has given us, nobody will project it for us. As Nigerians, let us believe in our products, that is why we are here today, not minding the cost and the stress. Let us know that God has created us to serve humanity and believe in the oneness of our dear nation. This carnival serves as an avenue that unites us. Before now Kogites were divided politically, religion wise, ethnic wise and otherwise. But today the people of Kogi showcase their talents, potentials and what God has blessed us with.”
“As we invite ourselves to this cultural celebration, I encourage all Kogites to seize this moment to reflect on our collective journey. Let us harness the strength of our shared identity to position Kogi as a true confluence of opportunities. Our administration is committed to transforming Kogi into a bright destination for investments and development.We have a creative environment with vast water resources, fertile agricultural land and other mineral resources.
Kogi is deeply positioned as Nigeria’s hub of economic potentials.This administration is also making significant investments in infrastructure, education, healthcare and security to drive sustainable growth.Be assured that this government is determined to leverage our cultural wealth to boost tourism and our economic activities.
Kogi State holds the vital place in the Nigerian history, as the sites of the amalgamation of the the Northern and Southern Protectorates.This legacy is coupled with other abundant resources and historical landmarks from Idah to Okene, Kabba to Egbe, from Bassa to Kogi, from Lokoja to Okene, Lokoja to Kabba and Obajana across the state. Kogi State is blessed with rich human, minerals and natural resources. As the chief investment driver, I call investors at home and abroad to take the advantage of our transparent administration. Now is the time to act.This administration has come to serve the citizens sincerely because this mandate is divine.We appreciate our leaders that laid the foundation we are building on today.
We promise to build on the legacy and achievements of His
Excellency, Alhaji Yahaya Bello,as we look up to their guidance and advice that will lead us to the greatness of our dear state, Hon Ododo said”.
The Chief Servant of Kogi State expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, as well as the organizing committee for their dedication and excellent execution of this event.” You have made us proud”, he said, appreciating Kogites at home and in the diaspora for making the carnival a huge success Governor Ododo, who was delighted with the artists’performances led by Timaya, on behalf of the State Government, rewarded them with huge sums of money.
Earlier at the opening ceremony, His Excellency Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, represented by the Deputy Governor, Comrade Joel Oyibo said he was overwhelmed by the colourful, digital and wonderful organization of the event, stressing that the carnival showcases the diversified cultural heritage of Kogi State, appreciating the efforts of the Hon. Commissioner for Culture and Tourism Hon Acharu Okpanachi, and all supporters of the 2024 Kogi State International Carnival.
The Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Hon.Acharu Okpanachi, thanked God for making the maiden edition of the carnival a reality, appreciating the Governor for the massive support the ministry has been enjoying from the inception of his administration as he has encouraged Kogites to carry out many important programmes of the Ministry, being mindful of the fact that culture is at the cornerstone of this administration towards actualizing the vision and mission of his government such as, approval and release of funds for the clearing of the Tourists sites, unveiling of Year 2024 Kogi International Carnival Logo and the release of funds for the take-off of the carnival process.” I have no doubt that His Excellency, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, will do more,” she enthused.
The carnival was attended by a mammoth crowd including Federal Government Officials, State Officials, artists and investors.
Elizabeth Ladi Samuel,
Information officer,
Ministry of Culture and Tourism.
