Just In: Ododo Names Kogi Specialist Hospital After Former Governor Ibrahim Idris

By Abah Benjamin Eneojoh

Abejukolo, Kogi State
October 29, 2026

Kogi State Governor, His Excellency Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, FCA, has renamed the Kogi State Specialist Hospital in Lokoja as Ibrahim Idris Specialist Hospital in honour of former Governor Alhaji Ibrahim Idris, popularly known as Baba Ibro, in recognition of his contributions to the development of the state.

Governor Ododo announced the decision on Thursday during the 40th-day prayer held in Abejukolo, Omala Local Government Area, for the peaceful repose of the soul of the former governor, describing him as a distinguished statesman whose life, leadership and service left an enduring mark on Kogi State.

The Governor said the decision was part of his administration’s commitment to preserving the legacies of leaders who contributed to the growth and development of the state, stressing that the contributions of such personalities must remain visible to present and future generations.

“Therefore, as the Chief Servant of Kogi State, I am pleased to announce that the Kogi State Specialist Hospital in Lokoja will henceforth be renamed Ibrahim Idris Specialist Hospital, Lokoja, in honour of this distinguished former Governor and in recognition of his contributions to the development of our dear state,” he said.

Governor Ododo also used the occasion to call for unity among the people of Kogi State, noting that the presence of personalities from different political backgrounds, ethnic groups and religious persuasions at the prayer demonstrated the late leader’s ability to build bridges and foster relationships across divisions.

He urged the people to rise above their differences and embrace their shared identity and common destiny, observing that while division weakens communities, unity creates the foundation for collective progress.

Earlier, the Chairman of the Organising Committee for the 40th-day prayer, Alhaji Musa Amodu, expressed appreciation to Governor Ododo for his support towards the burial arrangements and the prayer programme.

Amodu disclosed that the Governor had remained supportive of the family following the former Governor’s demise, including providing financial assistance for the burial arrangements and fully sponsoring the 40th-day prayer.

Alhaji Ibrahim Idris, popularly known as Baba Ibro, was Kogi State Governor from May 29, 2003 to January 2012 under the PDP, making him one of the state’s longest-serving governors after winning the March 2008 re-run election, and remained influential in politics and business after office until his death on September 20, 2026 at age 77 in the UK following an illness, after which he was buried on September 25, 2026 at Gudu Cemetery in Apo, Abuja.