Kogi @ 35: Unite, Build Our State — Abdullahi

Director-General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN), Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi, has urged Kogites to unite and deploy their talents, resources and connections towards building a more prosperous Kogi State.

Abdullahi made the call in a goodwill message to mark the 35th anniversary of the creation of Kogi State, describing the milestone as a celebration of the resilience and achievements of its people.

He congratulated Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo and the people of the state, commending the governor for sustaining the development trajectory of Kogi.

The ECN boss also acknowledged the contributions of former Governor Yahaya Bello, political leaders, traditional rulers, founding fathers, community builders and other citizens to the growth of the state.

Abdullahi, who described himself as a proud Kogi son, said service to the people remained a responsibility rather than a privilege.

He disclosed that he had supported pathways to federal employment for Kogi indigenes, created opportunities for indigenous small and medium-scale enterprises and backed youth-focused initiatives.

According to him, the DAM Foundation, through its youth programmes, basketball initiatives, scholarships, grants and sponsorships, has provided opportunities for young Kogites to discover and develop their talents.

He said the state’s greatest asset was its human capital, urging successful Kogites in different professions and fields to return home with their knowledge, networks and influence.

“Every contribution matters when the destination is collective prosperity,” he said.

Abdullahi called for greater attention to education, technology, agriculture, energy, industry, enterprise and youth development, stressing that Kogi’s next chapter must be driven by unity and a shared sense of purpose.

“Thirty-five years is a milestone, but it is not the summit. With leadership, unity and a shared commitment to service, Kogi can rise far beyond the boundaries of its past and become an even stronger force in Nigeria’s future,” he said.