The Kogi State Government has announced the clearance of N98.8 billion in inherited debts within the first 15 months of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo’s administration.
The disclosure was made by the Commissioner for Finance, Budget and Economic Planning, Asiwaju Idris, during a press briefing following the State Executive Council meeting held Tuesday in Lokoja.
Idris said the cleared debts were inherited from previous administrations, describing the development as a landmark achievement for the Ododo-led government.
According to him, the breakdown of the liquidated debts includes an N8 billion bond obtained during the tenure of former Governor Idris Wada and a N50.8 billion salary bailout facility inherited from the immediate past administration of Yahaya Bello.
Other cleared liabilities include a N10 billion ECA-backed infrastructure loan, N15 billion in infrastructure loans from Zenith Bank, and another N15 billion from UBA Plc.
“In total, within just 15 months, we have successfully cleared N98.8 billion in inherited debt,” Idris said. “This milestone reflects Governor Ododo’s commitment to fiscal discipline and sustainable economic recovery.”
He added that Kogi’s prudent financial management had earned the state a credit rating upgrade by Fitch Ratings—from ‘B-’ to ‘B’ with a stable outlook.
Also addressing the media, Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo, said the governor reiterated his administration’s dedication to grassroots development, economic sustainability, and infrastructural growth during the council meeting.
He noted that Governor Ododo had directed all public officials to remain in touch with their local communities and ensure consistent engagement to enhance responsive governance.
“We are in government to serve the people. That requires us to stay connected to their needs and aspirations,” Fanwo said.
As part of efforts to boost the local economy, the governor also mandated the use of Made-in-Kogi fabrics by all government officials, in a bid to promote local industries.
“This is part of a cultural and economic renaissance. Governor Ododo wants Kogites to lead in celebrating and supporting our indigenous products,” Fanwo added.
On infrastructure, Fanwo reported that construction at the Confluence University of Science and Technology (CUSTECH), Osara, is nearing completion. The perimeter fencing is 90 percent done, while both male and female hostels have been completed and are already in use. He noted that similar projects at Kogi State University, Kabba, are progressing steadily.
To improve traffic safety, the State Executive Council also approved a bill to restrict the movement of heavy-duty trucks during peak hours in Lokoja metropolis. Additionally, a bill was passed for the establishment of the Kogi State Agency for Climate Change, aimed at addressing environmental challenges in line with global standards.
Fanwo emphasized that Governor Ododo’s administration remains focused on making governance more visible, people-centered, and impactful across all sectors.
