Today, Kogi State marks 34 years of existence, a milestone worthy of celebration and reflection. On behalf of the Kogi NGOs Network (KONGONET), the apex umbrella body of civil society networks in Kogi State, we extend hearty congratulations to all Kogites, the people and government, as we celebrate and look ahead to a more prosperous and just state.
Acknowledging our achievements
We acknowledge the notable progress recorded in the governance and development trajectory of Kogi State. The calm political atmosphere in the state is a foundation upon which sustainable development can grow, and we recognise the contributions of leadership in sustaining that peace.
The shift from a “sleepy” Civil Service State to a governance model grounded in clear structures, policies, and deliberate institutional development signals purposeful intent and a commitment to reform.
The challenges that demand collective action
While we celebrate, we must also acknowledge that many Kogi citizens still face daily challenges such as; poor infrastructure and internal transport systems, limited personnel in healthcare centers, water, power, and basic services.
The cost of living remains above the ideal level for reliable welfare, even as wage standards continue to evolve.
Effective governance requires the participation of citizens to ensure that those entrusted with leadership are accountable and capable of delivering tangible improvements.
Our forward-looking commitments as we mark 34years of Existence
We commend the past administration under Governor Yahaya Bello for initiating the Kogi State Development Plan, a high-level development policy framework for the state. We urge the current administration to institutionalise the document through legislation and to align budget draft with the plan’s priorities as recommended in the state’s development discourse.
Promote sector-specific implementation and delivery.
We encourage vigorous pursuit of the development, finalization, and implementation of the plan through Specific Sector Implementation Plans (SIPs). This approach will translate policy into action across education, health, agriculture, infrastructure, and governance.
Strengthen stakeholders’ engagement for inclusive development.
Sustainable and inclusive development requires robust, transparent engagement with all stakeholders; civil society, private sector, communities, and the state legislature throughout the policy cycle: formulation, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation.
Prioritize people-driven outcomes.
Ultimately, the success of Kogi State’s development plan must be measured by improvements in the daily lives of Kogites: reliable access to affordable food, quality healthcare, safe and functional infrastructure, dependable electricity and water, and a conducive environment for business and innovation.
A call to action for all Kogites
Government at all levels should intensify efforts to translate policy into real, measurable gains for citizens.
Civil society and citizens must uphold a standard of accountability and integrity so that leadership reflects the best of our collective potential.
We must dream boldly about a Kogi of our dreams and actively work toward its realization through deliberate, transparent, and inclusive governance.
In Conclusion
Kogi State is at a crossroads of reflection and renewal. As we celebrate 34 years of birth, KONGONET reaffirms its commitment to partnering with government, communities, and the broader civil society in building a Kogi that is prosperous, peaceful, and just for all its people.
God bless Kogi State and Happy Birthday to all Kogites.