Theinvestigator news

Category: Government

  • Kogi Govt Empowers Schoolgirls With N40,000 Grant Under AGILE Project

    Kogi Govt Empowers Schoolgirls With N40,000 Grant Under AGILE Project

    Emmanuel Clement 

    The Kogi State Government has continued its distribution of N40,000 Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT) grants to schoolgirls under the Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE) project.

    The initiative aims to enhance school enrollment, retention, and transition for adolescent girls, reducing financial and socio-cultural barriers to education.

    At the exercise held on Wednesday at GYB Model Science Secondary School (GYBMSSS), Lokoja, the AGILE team issued preloaded ATM cards to parents and guardians of beneficiaries.

    Speaking at the event, the Kogi State Project Coordinator, Mr. Ahmed Oricha, commended Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo for keeping to his promise of ensuring that ATM cards are distributed across the state to all beneficiaries.

    He stressed that the disbursement was not a one-off, but a follow-up activity towards the Governor’s pledge that the AGILE-CCT initiative will be sustained as a continuous intervention under the AGILE project.

    Oricha noted that the project would provide a cash grant of N40,000 each to 13,359 adolescent girls in transition classes across the state, with the goal of dismantling financial and socio-cultural barriers preventing girls from attending school.

    He urged schoolgirls to maintain regular school attendance, while calling on parents to ensure the funds are used strictly for their children’s education.

    The Lead Consultant, Mr. Richard Alabi, reiterated that the account linked to the ATM card is a dedicated wallet for AGILE fund disbursement and must not be diverted for other uses.

    He emphasized that beneficiaries must sustain at least 70 per cent school attendance to continue enjoying the scheme, while also cautioning parents against paying any form of processing fees, as the government has fully covered the costs.

    The Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT) Lead, Mr. Kunle Musa, explained that the disbursement is being carried out in batches until all 13,359 beneficiaries receive their funds.

    UBA Branch Manager, Ms. Jennifer Efe, lauded the state government’s commitment to prioritizing education through the AGILE-CCT program, noting that Kogi is among the first states to begin actual implementation.

    She encouraged parents to use the funds appropriately for their children’s education and advised them to consider opening a separate savings account for future planning.

    The Principal of GYBMSSS, Chief Godwin Ajofe Yakubu, commended Governor Ododo for making education a priority and ensuring that girls are not left behind.

    He expressed appreciation to stakeholders for their support in making the project successful.

    Investigator news gathered that parents and beneficiaries expressed their gratitude.

    Speaking with newsmen,Mrs. Mariam Paul, a parent, said: “I have received N40,000 on behalf of my daughter through the ATM card that was given to us. We’re grateful to the government, AGILE, and all stakeholders for this support”

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

  • Soludo Fulfils Promise,Commissions 13KM Road Leading To Nzam.

    Soludo Fulfils Promise,Commissions 13KM Road Leading To Nzam.

    Emmanuel Clement 

    In a fulfilment of his campaign promise, Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo returned to Nzam in the Anambra West local government area to officially commission the newly constructed 13-kilometer Nzam road.

    The headquarters of Anambra West local government long neglected due to lack of motorable access road.

    Speaking at the local government headquarters after visiting various markets and locations, Governor Soludo declared that the barrier has finally been overcome, allowing residents to commute on a tarred road. He highlighted other fulfilled commitments made by his administration since taking office, stating, “This is an emotional journey for me.

    I made a promise accompanied by a significant consequence during the last gubernatorial campaign.

    Today that promise has been fulfilled as we can now drive into Nzam in September.”

    He welcomed prominent figures from Anambra West politics who have chosen to join the strong political movement of APGA, which he likened to a religion in the state.

    The Governor emphasized that his current focus is on project inspection, commissioning, and launching initiatives, as he is committed to an agenda with a set timeline. “We are on a mission of transformation and development, reaching out to those who have been overlooked and neglected,” he said.

    Mr. Tony-Collins Nwabunwanne, the Commissioner for Local Government, remarked on the significant changes in the political landscape, noting that every local government area has benefited from the democratic dividends in less than four years under Governor Soludo’s leadership.

    During the event, the State Chairman of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Barrister Ifeatu Obiokoye, welcomed new members from other political parties who joined APGA. He recalled when the gubernatorial campaign train stopped at Mmiata Anam for the open air campaign, thanking Governor Soludo for delivering on his promise to connect Nzam.

    On behalf of the new members, Chief John Ozoemena pledged unwavering support to ensure that Soludo and APGA are re-elected for another term of four years.

  • Kogi Food Prices Crash as Governor Ododo’s Policies Take Effect.

    Kogi Food Prices Crash as Governor Ododo’s Policies Take Effect.

    Emmanuel Clement 

    Food prices in Kogi State have witnessed a significant decline, thanks to the effective agricultural policies implemented by Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo.

    According to Kingsley Femi Fanwo, Commissioner for Information and Communications, the prices of staple foods have dropped substantially due to increased production and government measures against hoarding.

    Fanwo disclosed that a market survey shows that the price of a 50kg bag of rice, which sold for about ₦85,000 in March, now goes for between ₦62,000 and ₦65,000

    “A medium-sized tuber of yam, previously about ₦2,000, now sells for ₦1,200, while a paint bucket of cassava flakes (garri) has dropped from ₦3,500 to ₦2,400. Prices of maize and corn have also fallen across the state.

    “The crash in food prices is not accidental. It’s the result of structured support to farmers through various agricultural intervention programmes, including ACReSAL, the massive distribution of improved seedlings, and the opening up of rural roads under the RAAMP project,” Fanwo said.

    He noted that the state government has also put in place strong mechanisms to check hoarding by middlemen who attempt to create artificial scarcity.

    “Our policy is clear: no one will be allowed to exploit Kogites by stockpiling foodstuffs. We will continue to monitor markets to ensure availability and affordability,” he added.

    He further observed that the abundant production of staple crops this season has made hoarding unattractive.

    The Commissioner revealed that over one million seedlings of cashew and palm were planted this year alone in Kogi, a development he said could inject over ₦100 billion into the state’s agro-economy within three years.

    Fanwo assured that Governor Ododo remains committed to making Kogi a leading food hub in Nigeria, stressing that agriculture will continue to drive food security, job creation, and economic growth in the state.

    He added that many investors are already showing interest in the state’s agricultural sector.

    “It’s therefore not surprising,” he said, “that Produce for Lagos — an agricultural programme of the Lagos State Government — has chosen to partner with Kogi State for food supply to Lagos.

    “This initiative, backed by a ₦500 billion agribusiness fund, is further proof that Kogi is now at the centre of Nigeria’s food security drive.”he submitted

     

     

     

  • Kogi State Government Brokers Peace In Ajepe Ogbani Sepa Chieftaincy Dispute.

    Kogi State Government Brokers Peace In Ajepe Ogbani Sepa Chieftaincy Dispute.

    Emmanuel Clement 

    The Kogi State government has successfully resolved the tussle for the Ajepe Ogbani Sepa of Osuku chieftaincy stool, appealing for a peaceful resolution of all issues pertaining to the chieftaincy stool.

    Investigator news reports that a meeting was held in Lokoja, presided over by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Barr. Salami Momodu Ozigi Deedat.

    Barr. Ozigi Deedat appealed to both sides to maintain peace, stressing that traditional institution affairs must not degenerate into disharmony and conflict.

    He further advised that chieftaincy titles should be given and accepted with honour.

    In their responses, the Makama Dogo and the Ohinoyi of Osuku commended the action and leadership style of the administration of Governor Usman Ahmed Ododo of Kogi State.

    They commended the integrity of Barr Deedat and promised to resolve amicably and live in peace.

    Alh. Hassan M. Ibrahim, the Ozoutogbani of Igu, Justice Danladi Yakubu of Sharia Court of Appeal, Lokoja and other representatives or the Ohimege Igu of Kotonkarfi, HRM Seidu Akawu expressed their profound appreciation as well as satisfaction with the manner the chieftaincy issued has been put to rest.

     

     

     

     

     

     

  • Ejigbo Youths Laud Hon Ajomale For Empowering Young People.

    Ejigbo Youths Laud Hon Ajomale For Empowering Young People.

    Emmanuel lkpeama

    The National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Ejigbo Local Branch, has expressed deep appreciation to Hon. Oladipo Olayinka Ajomale, Member representing Oshodi-Isolo Constituency II at the Lagos State House of Assembly, for his exceptional contributions towards the growth and development of young people in Ejigbo.

    In a release signed by the Coordinator National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Ejigbo Local Branch,Comrade Femi Olaoye Shomuyiwa stated that Hon. Ajomale has demonstrated genuine passion and commitment to youth welfare through support for business initiatives, empowerment programs, and job facilitation across various sectors.

    He noted that his efforts have provided immediate relief for several young persons and created sustainable pathways for long-term growth and stability in the community

    Comrade Shomuyiwa went further to praise Hon. Ajomale’s leadership style, describing it as rooted in inclusiveness, accessibility, and dedication to service.

    “Hon. Ladi Ajomale has consistently shown that youth development is at the core of his legislative and constituency engagements.”

    “By supporting businesses and creating employment linkages, he has given Ejigbo youths renewed hope and practical opportunities to thrive.”

    “This is the type of leadership our constituency deserves,” he said.

    The NYCN Coordinator reaffirmed the youths solidarity and continuous support for Hon. Ladi Ajomale, noting that his interventions have been impactful, ranging from entrepreneurship support, vocational skill development, and direct empowerment programmes, to creating access to jobs in both public and private sectors.

    These gestures, according to the Council, have strengthened the bond between the youths and their representative, while also fostering socio-economic advancement in Ejigbo.

    They pledge to work closely with him to advance initiatives that empower young people, reduce unemployment, and promote community development

    The Council calls on other public office holders, corporate organizations, and well-meaning stakeholders to emulate Hon. Ajomale’s exemplary show of leadership and support the mission of building a progressive Ejigbo where the potentials of every young person can be harnessed.

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

  • Food Security: Lagos State Infuses Support Into Arewa Community Farmers.

    Food Security: Lagos State Infuses Support Into Arewa Community Farmers.

    Emmanuel Clement 

    Lagos State is making significant advancements in food security by empowering Arewa community farmers, under the steadfast leadership of Alhaji Shehu Usman Jibril Sampam.

    As the Southwest Coordinator of the Arewa Community, Sampam plays a crucial role in integrating roadside farmers into the state’s comprehensive agricultural programs, reinforcing sustainable local food production.

    The recent initiative at Alapere exemplifies Lagos State Government’s dedication to boosting local food production. By providing farmland and essential infrastructure to Arewa farmers, the state is making a transformative investment in agricultural sustainability and community empowerment.

    Alhaji Shehu Sampam, a prominent member of the Lagos State Market Advisory Committee, has been instrumental in uniting Arewa farmers and perishable food traders.

    His commendation of Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu reflects the administration’s inclusive approach, which embraces diverse communities such as Arewa in Lagos’s agricultural development and economic growth plans.

    Central to this success is the visionary leadership of Ms. Abisola Olusanya, the Lagos State Commissioner for Agriculture, Food Security, and Systems. Her innovation, foresight, and genuine compassion for agriculture and food security have been pivotal in facilitating this groundbreaking initiative.

    Ms. Olusanya’s commitment ensures that policies are not only strategic but also deeply attuned to the pressing needs of grassroots farmers, turning bold visions into impactful realities.

    Additionally, civic participation is emphasized as a vital element of long-term sustainability. Sampam encourages farmers and community members to seize the ongoing voter registration exercise, strengthening both governance and agricultural development.

    With Lagos State’s dedicated infusion of resources and Ms. Olusanya’s exceptional leadership, the Arewa community farmers are well positioned to drive food security forward—demonstrating a powerful model of inclusive growth and lasting agricultural prosperity.

     

     

     

     

     

     

  • Kogi State Will Not Be Intimidated By Bandits, Says Gov Ododo

    Kogi State Will Not Be Intimidated By Bandits, Says Gov Ododo

    Emmanuel Clement

    Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has vowed that his administration will not be intimidated by bandits, following a recent attack on Egbe community in Yagba West Local Government Area.

    Describing the attack as a brutal assault on the state’s peace and humanity, Governor Ododo assured residents that his administration would deliver justice to the fallen heroes and their families.

    Speaking during his condolence visit to the Egbe community on Saturday 13, September 2025,the Governor represented by his Deputy, Comrade Joel Salifu pledged to intensify collaboration with security agencies, improve community policing, and provide more support and resources to local vigilantes to secure every part of the state.

    He said that the state mourns the loss of gallant officers of the Nigeria Police Force and members of the Vigilante Service who paid the supreme price while defending the people.

    “Their blood will not be shed in vain. We will not rest until those behind this heinous crime are tracked down, apprehended, and brought to justice,” the Governor said.

    The governor went further to extend heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, pledging that the government would stand by them and ensure the dependents of the fallen heroes are not abandoned.

    He urged residents not to succumb to fear but to remain vigilant, cooperate with security agencies, and promptly report suspicious activities. He also warned against harboring criminals or aiding their operations in any form.

    “Together, we’ll overcome. Together, we’ll send a clear message that Kogi State cannot be broken,” Governor Ododo affirmed.

    He concluded with prayers for the repose of the souls of the fallen heroes, comfort for their families, and lasting peace across the state.

     

    Earlier, in his welcome address, the Chairman of Yagba West Local Government Area, Hon. Tosin Olokun, appreciated the Governor for visiting to assess the extent of the pain inflicted on the community and to commiserate with them, noting that only a caring government would stand with its people at such a time.

    The State Security Adviser, Rtd Commander Jerry Omodara, in his remarks, highlighted the strides of the state government in strengthening security in border communities.

    He stressed that the government will not allow Egbe to be overrun by criminals, insisting that residents must be able to live in peace and farm without fear.

    According to him, most bandits terrorising flashpoints in the state are fleeing from neighboring states, adding that the government has identified their hideouts.

    “With the support of the Federal Government and the National Security Adviser, the criminals are being intercepted and neutralised”

    Omodara further disclosed plans to establish a Forward Operation Base (FOB) in Egbe to address insecurity in the area, while warning local collaborators and saboteurs that the government will deal with them decisively.

    In his remarks, His Royal Highness, Oba Ayodele Irukera, the Elegbe of Egbe, appealed for more security presence, stressing that as a border community, Egbe is highly vulnerable to attacks.

    He apologized for the recent road blockade staged by youths, describing it as a reaction to the insecurity in the area.

    “It is inhuman for five people to be killed in just one day,” he said, calling for urgent measures to strengthen security in the community.

    A youth representative, Engr. Olugbenga David, urged the government to carry young people along in its security strategies, and called for the deployment of more personnel, including trained forest guards, to the area.

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

  • Arewa Community Pledges Overwhelming Support For APC In 2027 Elections.

    Arewa Community Pledges Overwhelming Support For APC In 2027 Elections.

    Emmanuel Clement 

    Ahead of the 2027 general election,the Arewa community in the South-West region has reaffirmed its commitment to the All Progressives Congress (APC), pledging to deliver a resounding victory for the party in the forthcoming elections.

    They made this commitment when the delegation led by Alhaji Shehu Usman Jibrin, Coordinator of the Arewa community in the South-West,,  paid a courtesy visit to Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, at his Abuja office.

    He stated that their mission is clear, which is to mobilize Arewa people across the region and to ensure a resounding victory for the APC and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2027.

    Alhaji Shehu Usman explained that the Arewa community is actively participating in ongoing voter registration to strengthen APC’s grassroots presence.

    According to him, the power of the ballot is in numbers, and the Arewa community is fully determined to turn out massively for Asiwaju Bola Tinubu when the time comes, noting that the group plans to intensify voter awareness and mobilization campaigns across the six South-West states.

    As Chairman of the Mile 12 International Market and a member of the Lagos State Market Advisory Committee Alhaji Shehu Usman Jibrin praised President Tinubu’s efforts in stabilizing the economy and assured the SGF of the community’s loyalty to the APC.

    In his remarks, SGF George Akume commended the visiting delegation for their commitment and loyalty to the ruling party.

    He described them as disciplined, vibrant, and determined patriots who have continued to strengthen the APC’s foundation in the South-West.

    The SGF assured the delegation that their concerns and messages of loyalty would be delivered to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    Akume went further to encourage them to continue being law-abiding citizens as they champion the progress of democracy.

    Investigator news reports that the visit concluded with renewed assurances that the Arewa community in the South-West stands firmly with the APC.

    With their solid structures and wide grassroots reach, they pledged to deliver an overwhelming and victorious vote for the ruling party in the 2027 elections.

    It will be recalled that other Arewa groups have also made similar promises to support the APC in the 2027 elections.

    The Arewa Coalition of Youths has also declared that over 65,000 Northern groups will bring together 2 million members to vote massively for President Tinubu.

     

     

     

     

  • First Lady,Oluremi Empowers 500 Women In Kogi With N25 Million Grants.

    First Lady,Oluremi Empowers 500 Women In Kogi With N25 Million Grants.

    Emmanuel Clement 

    The First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has empowered 500 women in Kogi State with N25 million grants through the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI)/Tony Elumelu Foundation Women Economic Empowerment Programme.

    Investigator news reports that each beneficiary received N50,000 to boost their small-scale businesses.

    Senator Tinubu, who was represented at the event by the First Lady of Kogi State, Hajia Sefinat Usman Ododo, said the programme was designed to support women traders and entrepreneurs who are working hard daily to sustain their families and uplift their communities.

    “This is not a loan. It is a grant and a seed of renewed hope to help you recapitalise your existing businesses. It is my firm belief that when you empower a woman, you empower a household, a community, and indeed, a nation,” she said.

    The initiative, made possible through a N1 billion donation from the Tony Elumelu Foundation to the Renewed Hope Initiative, will directly benefit 18,500 women nationwide. Under the scheme, 500 women in each of the 36 states and the FCT will receive N50,000 each.

    At the Kogi State launch, some of the pre-selected beneficiaries were presented with their grants in Lokoja as 500 women beneficiaries received grants, totaling N25 million.

    Senator Tinubu commended the Tony Elumelu Foundation for its generosity, expressing hope that such acts of kindness would inspire more contributions towards women empowerment across the country.

    She also appreciated the support of the Governor of Kogi State, His Excellency, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, and his wife, Hajia Sefinat Usman Ododo, for their commitment to the success of the Renewed Hope Initiative in the state.

    The First Lady went further to reaffirm her commitment to advancing women’s economic independence through initiatives that strengthen households, communities, and the nation at large.

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

  • Royal Seal:Oba Ojoola Imakiyo II Ojon Of Ejigbo Commends Aare Taiwo’s Infrastructural Development.

    Royal Seal:Oba Ojoola Imakiyo II Ojon Of Ejigbo Commends Aare Taiwo’s Infrastructural Development.

    Emmanuel Clement 

    The Oba of Ejigbo and Ijan Land, Oba Morufu Adekunle Adisa Ojoola Imakiyo II, has expressed his deep satisfaction with the construction of six roads complete with standard drainages and solar-powered streetlights across Ejigbo.

    The monarch made this known during an official visitation to four ongoing project sites, commending the Executive Chairman of Ejigbo Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Aare Taoheed Adebayo Taiwo, for his remarkable strides in infrastructural development

    Oba Ojoola Imakiyo II noted that the projects are in full compliance with the Lagos State Road Construction Standards and Regulations, ensuring quality, durability, and safety for the people of Ejigbo.

    He went further to laud Aare Taiwo’s foresight in prioritizing modern infrastructural development that will greatly enhance the socio-economic activities of Ejigbo and improve the quality of life of its residents.

    “Ejigbo is witnessing a new dawn under the purposeful leadership of our Executive Chairman.”

    “These roads, with their accompanying drainage systems and solar lighting, are a clear testimony of his commitment to modernizing our community and aligning with the broader vision of Lagos State,” Oba Ojoola Imakiyo II stated.

    Oba Moruf Adekunle called on the good people of Ejigbo to continue supporting the administration of the Chairman to ensure sustainable development across all sectors, while reaffirming its support and prayers for continued wisdom, strength, and success for Aare Taoheed Adebayo Taiwo in his service to the people of Ejigbo.