Naijagist Platform

The Kogi State Government has issued a stern warning to the youths of Ihiaga in Okehi Local Government Area, cautioning them to stay off the land belonging to Kogi State Polytechnic, Itakpe Campus. The Honourable Commissioner for Housing and Urban Development, Hon. Taiye Abanika, delivered the warning during an inspection of the ongoing perimeter fencing project at the Polytechnic. Contractors working on the project had raised concerns that each time they excavate to lay blocks along the Zango section of the Polytechnic, unidentified individuals would backfill the trenches, disrupting construction. Expressing disappointment over the interference, Hon. Abanika emphasized that the land was legally ceded to the government in the 1970s, when Kogi was still part of the old Kwara State. He noted that despite several peaceful engagements between the government and the community’s representatives, some individuals were still attempting to undermine the project. He stressed that the administrat...

  ...Attends Prayer in Adu' in honour of Gov. Ododo and Hon. Sanni Egidi  The Honourable Commissioner for Housing and Urban Development, Hon. Abanika Taiye, on Thursday, January 30, 2025, joined the Executive Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, and the Honourable Member representing Ajaokuta Federal Constituency, Hon. Barr. Sanni Egidi Abdulraheem, at the groundbreaking ceremony for five LNG/CNG projects in Ajaokuta, Kogi State. The projects, spearheaded by the Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN) and the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), mark a significant step in enhancing energy infrastructure in the state. Speaking to the press after the event, Hon. Abanika commended Governor Ododo and Hon. Egidi for their efforts in attracting federal projects to the state, emphasizing that such developments were made possible by the prevailing peace and security in Kogi. He noted that NNPCL’s Group Managing Director, Mele Kyari, also acknowledged the state...

The Executive Secretary of the Kogi State Drugs and Medical Supplies Management Agency (KSDMSMA), Pharmacist Salamat Onize, has commended Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo for his transformative leadership, which has significantly advanced the agency's operations within his first year in office. Pharmacist Salamat praised Governor Ododo for his unwavering support and strategic interventions that have enhanced healthcare delivery across the state. She highlighted key achievements under his administration, emphasizing the Governor’s commitment to improving medical supply management in Kogi State. Key Achievements at KSDMSMA Under Governor Ododo 1. Strategic Partnerships: Signing of Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with seven leading pharmaceutical companies to ensure a consistent supply of quality drugs and medical consumables to public health facilities statewide. 2. Infrastructure Modernization: Solar-powered vaccine storage facilities to maintain uninterrupted cold chain operations. Upg...

  The National Association of Kogi State Medical Students (KOMSA) recently organized a free medical outreach that brought much-needed healthcare services to   residents of Obangede in Okehi Local Government Area. The initiative was part of their annual health week program, which aims to provide accessible healthcare to underserved communities across Kogi State. The outreach, conducted by medical students from various universities across Nigeria who are indigenous to Kogi State, provided a range of medical services, including treatment for high blood pressure, management of terminal ailments, and swift care for individuals with other pressing health needs. Residents expressed their heartfelt gratitude for the medical attention provided, with many describing the intervention as life-changing. Community leaders also commended the association for its dedication and commitment to improving healthcare delivery praying God to sustain the future Doctors and the Government of His ...

  The Honourable Commissioner for Housing and Urban Development, Hon. Abanika Taiye, has extended heartfelt congratulations to the Executive Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, on the occasion of his one-year anniversary in office. Speaking to journalists in Lokoja, Hon. Abanika described Governor Ododo as a true servant leader who has demonstrated unwavering commitment to the welfare of the people through his visionary, people-centered policies and governance. "His Excellency is a man with a heart of gold. Within just one year in office, he has consolidated the noble legacy of his predecessor, Alhaji Yahaya Adoza Bello, CON. Today, Kogites enjoy remarkable benefits, including enhanced security, regular payment of salaries, and the implementation of the new minimum wage, which has brought smiles to the faces of civil servants at both the state and local government levels," Hon. Abanika stated. The Honourable Commissioner highlighted Governor Ododo’s massive inve...

  On behalf of my humble self, Prof. Isah Yahaya Adagiri, and the entire management and staff of Kogi State Specialist Hospital, Lokoja, I wish to extend our heartfelt congratulations to the pragmatic Governor of Kogi State, His Excellency Alh. Ahmed Usman Ododo, on the remarkable occasion of the first anniversary of your administration. Your Excellency, within this brief period, you have demonstrated exceptional leadership by bringing governance closer to the people through your impactful, people-oriented policies. These include the regular payment of staff salaries, the implementation of the new national minimum wage, the construction of critical roads and infrastructure, and, most notably, your unwavering support for Kogi State Specialist Hospital, Lokoja. Your contributions have empowered us to deliver quality healthcare services effectively, and for this, we remain profoundly grateful. We also take this opportunity to salute His Excellency Alh. Yahaya Adoza Bello CON, the imme...

  The Honourable Commissioner for Housing and Urban Development, Hon. Abanika Taiye, has expressed heartfelt condolences to the Auditor General of Kogi State, Hon. Yusuf Okala, on the passing of his beloved mother, Hajiya Amina Yusuf Okala. In a message of condolence, Hon. Abanika described the late Hajiya Amina Yusuf Okala as a remarkable woman who led a life of impact and dedication, leaving behind a legacy of proper child upbringing and significant contributions to society. Reflecting on the irreplaceable role of mothers, the Commissioner acknowledged the deep sense of loss that accompanies such a departure, regardless of age. He urged Hon. Okala and his family to take solace in the fact that Hajiya lived a life of fulfillment and purpose. Hon. Abanika prayed for the peaceful repose of the soul of Hajiya Amina and extended his prayers for blessings and strength to the bereaved family during this difficult time. He concluded by emphasizing the enduring legacy of the late Matriarc...

  ...Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment Pays Familiarization and Monitoring Visit to KSSH  The Chief Medical Director (CMD) of Kogi State Specialist Hospital, Lokoja, Prof. Isah Yahaya Adagiri, has reaffirmed the hospital’s commitment to fostering industrial harmony and collaboration among staff unions and management. He made this assertion during a familiarization and industrial relations monitoring visit by the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, led by the State Controller of Labour, Mr. Labija John. Prof. Adagiri highlighted the strong and productive relationships between the hospital's management and its various labour unions, which represent the interests of staff. He described the essence of labour unions as being centered on the welfare of their members, emphasizing that disputes can often be resolved amicably without unnecessary conflict. He remarked, “Just as the mouth and tongue may occasionally clash but still function together harmoniously, so too sh...

The Honourable Commissioner for Housing and Urban Development, Hon. Abanika Taiye, has reaffirmed the commitment of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo's administration to elevating the status of traditional rulers in Kogi State. Speaking during his inspection of the ongoing renovation of the Ohimege of Kotton Karfe’s palace, Hon. Abanika emphasized that the government is leaving no stone unturned in ensuring that royal fathers receive the recognition and infrastructure they deserve. He disclosed that Governor Ododo has issued a clear mandate to his ministry to execute a befitting renovation of the palace, highlighting it as part of the administration’s broader efforts to preserve the cultural heritage and dignity of traditional institutions in the state. While assessing the progress of the renovation, Hon. Abanika commended the contractors for their dedication and urged them to maintain the high standards set by Governor Ododo’s administration. "This project reflects the values of exc...

  In a strategic move to mitigate the housing deficit in Kogi State, the Honourable Commissioner for Housing and Urban Development, Hon. Abanika Taiye, on Thursday, January 23rd, 2025 paid a working visit to the Managing Director and CEO of Citec International Estates Limited, Oludare Bello Esq in Abuja. The visit aimed to explore investment opportunities in the state's housing sector under the administration of His Excellency Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo. Hon. Abanika Taiye reaffirmed the Kogi State Government's unwavering commitment to fostering public-private partnerships to benefit Kogites. He emphasized that the state has created a conducive environment for investors through various legislations and executive orders. This initiative aligns with the government's goal of driving sustainable development and addressing critical infrastructural needs. The Managing Director of Citec International Estates Limited, visibly excited by the discussions, expressed gratitude for the st...

  By Umar Samuel Onotu   Nigeria, a nation with boundless potential, has unfortunately become synonymous with struggle for many of its citizens. From admission into tertiary institutions to securing jobs, the journey for young people, particularly fresh graduates, is riddled with challenges. A glaring example of this is the plight of National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members in their search for a Primary Place of Assignment (PPA). Recently, I couldn't help but pity young corps members roaming the streets in search of organizations willing to accept them for their mandatory service year. Within and outside my office, I have encountered several of them, pleading to be absorbed into institutions where they can contribute meaningfully and fulfill their national duty. It is disheartening to see some of these young individuals rejected by their initial postings, forcing them to desperately scout for alternative places to serve. Even worse, some corps members are posted to establis...

The Anglican Diocese of Lokoja has strongly condemned the recent attack on the Anglican mission and the misconceptions propagated by the Old Students Association of Crowther Memorial College, Lokoja, regarding the school’s proprietorship. The Diocese described the actions as unwarranted, absurd, inglorious, and gratuitous. Most Revd Emmanuel A.S. Egbunu, Diocesan Bishop and Proprietor of the college, responded to allegations by the alumni claiming that the mission is running the school without due process. He emphasized that the primary responsibility of an Alumni Association is to give back to the institution that shaped them, not to engage in baseless accusations or unnecessary confrontations. Reflecting on the legacy of the Church Missionary Society (CMS), Most Rev. Egbunu expressed gratitude for Crowther Memorial College's 61st anniversary. He recalled that CMS, which established Nigeria’s first secondary school, CMS Grammar School, Bariga, Lagos, in 1859, later extended its ...

  OFFICE OF THE HONOURABLE COMMISSIONER FOR HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT Press Release Happy Birthday to the Chief of Staff to the Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Ali Bello On behalf of myself, my family, and the entire management and staff of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, I, Hon. Abanika Taiye, the Honourable Commissioner for Housing and Urban Development, extend my heartfelt felicitations to a man I regard as a golden treasure to the administration of the high-performing Governor of Kogi State. Alhaji Ali Bello, a quiet, easygoing, forthright, and visionary leader, has made significant contributions to the development of the state, ensuring the seamless administration of His Excellency, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo’s government through his innovative ideas and administrative acumen. His unwavering support for His Excellency in the execution of various infrastructural projects across the state, including those spearheaded by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Developme...

  Hon Abanika on site inspection with engineer at ongoing construction of Lokoja ultra Modern Market   In a bold move signaling a commitment to development, the Kogi State Honourable Commissioner for Housing and Urban Development, Hon. Abanika Taiye, on Thursday, January 16, 2025, led a site inspection with developers to assess the suitability of a proposed housing project. The site, covering more than 15 hectares of land in the Crusher area of Lokoja, is earmarked for a modern estate under a government-private partnership arrangement. Hon. Abanika, defying the challenging terrain, emphasized that the administration of His Excellency Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo is steadfast in delivering quality and affordable housing to the people of Kogi State. He stated that the project’s strategic location would help transform Lokoja into a modern city upon completion. Hon. Abanika and Architect Waziru on site confirmation with developer on proposed housing estate, Crusher-Lokoja "I am confid...

The Honourable Commissioner for Housing and Urban Development, Hon. Abanika Taiye, has expressed heartfelt congratulations to the Honourable Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hajiya Fatima Momoh, on the occasion of her birthday. In a statement released from his office in Lokoja, Hon. Abanika described Hajiya Fatima as a "woman with a difference," whose unwavering dedication to the welfare of women has made a significant impact in Kogi State and beyond. "On behalf of myself and everyone in the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, I extend our warmest felicitations to you, Hajiya Fatima Momoh, on the celebration of your auspicious birthday," Hon. Abanika stated. "Serving in your capacity as the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development under our amiable leader, His Excellency Alh. Ahmed Usman Ododo, has brought relief and hope to countless women within and outside the state. We pray this new year ushers you into greater pros...

  The Senior Special Assistant to the Executive Governor of Kogi State on Child Abuse, Hon. Jemila Muhammed, paid a visit to the pediatric ward of Kogi State Specialist Hospital, Lokoja, as part of her ongoing sensitization campaign on child abuse. During her visit, Hon. Jemila Muhammed addressed parents at the ward, commending their dedication to ensuring the well-being of their children and prioritizing their health. She noted that His Excellency, Alh. Ahmed Usman Ododo, as a father to all children in the state, is deeply committed to their welfare. She highlighted that her appointment as the Senior Special Assistant on Child Abuse reflects the administration’s resolve to combat all forms of abuse against children. In her lecture, Hon. Jemila emphasized the need for parents to give quality attention to their children and remain vigilant about the people their children interact with, including family members and outsiders. She cautioned that child abuse is not limited to female ch...

  The Adogu of Eganyi in Ajaokuta Local Government Area of Kogi State, His Royal Highness Alhaji Mohammed Adambe, paid a courtesy visit to the Honourable Commissioner for Housing and Urban Development, Hon. Abanika Taiye, earlier today. During the visit, the revered traditional ruler expressed heartfelt appreciation to the commissioner for his benevolence and exceptional leadership since assuming office. He highlighted Hon. Taiye’s commitment to supporting Ajaokuta Local Government through various community and humanitarian initiatives, which have strengthened the bond between His Excellency, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, and the grassroots. The meeting also featured discussions on strategies to enhance the development of Ajaokuta LGA. His Royal Highness underscored the importance of collaborative efforts to drive progress in the area. In his response, Hon. Abanika Taiye appreciated the royal father for the visit and his consistent support for the government’s vision. He pledged the go...

Office of the Honourable Commissioner for Housing and Urban Development, Kogi State Press Release  The attention of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development has been drawn to an online publication regarding a purported letter on the above subject matter, allegedly addressed to the Executive Governor of Kogi State, His Excellency, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, through the office of the Honourable Commissioner. We wish to categorically state that no such letter has been officially received by the Honourable Commissioner or the Ministry. However, we acknowledge the critical housing challenges facing the residents of Lokoja and Kogi State at large. As a people-centered and responsive government, the administration of His Excellency, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, is fully committed to addressing these issues through sustainable and impactful initiatives. In this regard, we are pleased to inform the public of the following proactive measures already being implemented to address the rising r...

  On behalf of myself, Hon. Abanika Taiye, and the entire management and staff of the Kogi State Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, I extend heartfelt congratulations to Haj. Habibat Tijani Onumoko on the remarkable milestone of completing one year as the Accountant General of Kogi State. Over the past year, Haj. Habibat has demonstrated exceptional financial and administrative expertise, bringing transformative innovations that have significantly enhanced governance in Kogi State. Her unwavering commitment to transparency, accountability, and excellence has made her a beacon of inspiration and progress within our state. Haj. Habibat's dedication goes beyond her professional responsibilities. She has been a dependable source of counsel and support, always ready to provide valuable advice whenever called upon. Her leadership continues to set a high standard, reflecting her passion for service and her vision for a better Kogi State. It is also with great joy that I celebrate ...

            Hon. Abanika at Crusher NHS The Kogi State Government has warned against any attempt to undermine Federal Government facilities, with a firm declaration from the Commissioner for Housing and Urban Development, Hon. Abanika Taiye, during his on-the-spot visit to the National Housing Estate, Crusher, Lokoja. On Monday, January 6, Hon. Abanika personally supervised the pasting of eviction orders issued on January 3 to over 80% of illegal occupants of Phase I, II, and III of the estate. The Commissioner revealed that preliminary investigations by his team uncovered fraudulent allocations of housing units by some individuals, with houses being sold to unsuspecting occupants for as low as ₦200,000. He described this act as a deliberate attempt to sabotage federal projects designed to address the housing challenges in Kogi State. "The government of His Excellency Alh. Ahmed Usman Ododo will not tolerate any act aimed at undermining projects meant to be...

  The Kogi State Government has issued a firm directive to individuals unlawfully occupying properties within the National Housing Estate at Crusher, Lokoja. This call, issued by the Commissioner for Housing and Urban Development, Hon. Taiye Abanika, on January 3, 2025, mandates immediate evacuation from Phases I, II, and III of the estate. Hon. Abanika decried the illegal occupation, stating it undermines the objectives of the National Housing Programme (NHP), which aims to provide affordable housing to Nigerians. Shockingly, over 85% of the estate’s units are occupied without authorization, with reports of fraudulent resale of these properties. The government detailed the affected units as follows: Phase I: 76 units (4 one-bedroom, 48 two-bedroom, 24 three-bedroom bungalows). Phase II: 92 units (20 one-bedroom, 28 two-bedroom, 44 three-bedroom bungalows). Phase III: 92 units (16 one-bedroom, 28 two-bedroom, 48 three-bedroom bungalows). Illegal occupants have been urged to vacate ...

The vibrant Ebiya community in Ajaokuta Local Government Area of Kogi State came alive on Thursday, January 2, 2024, as residents organized a series of activities to celebrate their illustrious son, Hon. Abanika Taiye, the Honourable Commissioner for Housing and Urban Development. The event also served as an occasion to offer prayers for His Excellency, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, and the government of Kogi State.       Eganyi Explorers with Hon. Abanika   The day began with a mountaineering hike organized by the Eganyi Explorers, attracting prominent personalities, including Hon. Abanika Taiye. Addressing the enthusiastic group of youths, Hon. Abanika lauded their efforts in promoting the cultural and natural beauty of Ebira land and Kogi State. He attributed the peaceful and enabling environment to the foundations laid by the previous administration of His Excellency, Alhaji Yahaya Adoza Bello (CON), and the ongoing consolidation by the current administration of His ...