_By Segun Adegboyega_
The Kogi State Commissioner for Information and Communications, Hon. Kingsley Femi Fanwo, has charged students and youths across the state to promote unity and see themselves as one indivisible Kogi family. He also urged them to leverage their various associations to sensitize their peers against cultism and the abuse of illicit drugs.
Fanwo gave the charge on Monday while receiving the President and representatives of the Faculty of Physical Science Students Association (FOPSSA) in his office in Lokoja.
According to him, coming together as one body irrespective of ethnic, religious, or cultural differences leaves no room for division, discrimination, or bigotry.
“When you come together as one, you are not concerned about whether you are from Okun, Ebira, or Igala. That is the strength of unity. If the older generation failed to unite Kogi State fully, you must not fail. We are one family as a state, and you must do everything within your power to strengthen that bond and keep Kogi united,” he said.
The Commissioner admonished the students to strive for excellence in their respective fields by engaging in research that would lead to discoveries and innovations capable of driving the state’s development. He urged them to think beyond conventional boundaries, embrace creativity, and contribute meaningfully to society.
He noted that Kogi State is richly endowed with mineral resources that require extensive research, innovation, and skilled professionals to effectively explore and utilize them. He therefore encouraged the students to remain committed, dedicated, and meticulous in their pursuits to ensure that Kogi State continues to maintain its reputation as a centre of excellence.
Fanwo further disclosed that the Kogi State Government, through the Ministry of Information and Communications, had launched the Kogi Rebrand Initiative aimed at combating misinformation and disinformation. He called on members of the association to support the initiative by projecting the positive image of the state to the world rather than promoting narratives capable of tarnishing its reputation.
According to him, the administration of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo is committed to building a vibrant, dynamic, responsible, and productive generation of young people who will contribute meaningfully to the growth and development of the state.
The Commissioner assured FOPSSA of the Ministry’s continued support and reiterated Governor Ododo’s unwavering commitment to infrastructural development, as well as the security of lives and property across the state.
Earlier in his remarks, the President of FOPSSA, Comrade Abdulmalik Aminu, commended Hon. Fanwo for his strategic efforts in ensuring that accurate and timely information about government activities, policies, and programmes reaches the people.
He also praised Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo for his developmental strides across the state.
Describing Hon. Fanwo as a committed leader who consistently supports and carries students and youths along in governance, Aminu appealed for his continued assistance in addressing the challenges facing the association. He pledged the association’s loyalty and support, noting that members look up to the Commissioner for guidance, mentorship, and fatherly counsel.
