'Seun Ibukun-Oni, Abuja
DAILY COURIER – Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, in a bid to enhance grassroots governance has called on Directors of Local Government (DLGs) and Treasurers to prioritize local government autonomy and adhere to professional ethics in their duties. The governor made this appeal during an interactive session with the forum of DLGs and Treasurers, held at the Government House, Lokoja.
A statement today by the Special Adviser on Media to the Governor, Ismaila Isah disclosed that Governor Ododo emphasized the crucial role of local government administrators as representatives of the government at the grassroots level. He stated that their performance as top civil servants would significantly impact the relationship between the government and the people, ultimately fostering development across local government areas.
The Governor praised the resilience and dedication of the DLGs and Treasurers, stressing the importance of maintaining accurate records and professional ethics, particularly among accountants in the public sector. According to Ododo, these efforts are vital in promoting transparency and accountability in governance.
“Your roles are critical in ensuring that the dividends of democracy reach the people at the grassroots,” Governor Ododo said. He further urged unity among local government officials and called for stronger collaboration with the Kogi State Accountant General, Habiba Onumoko, in overcoming the challenges of local government administration.
In his remarks, the Speaker of the Kogi State House of Assembly, Right Honourable Aliyu Umar, lauded Governor Ododo’s leadership, highlighting his transparency and commitment to accountability. Umar assured the Governor of the legislature’s continued support in bringing governance closer to the grassroots.
The Kogi State Accountant General, Habiba Onumoko, also spoke at the event, commending Governor Ododo’s contributions to grassroots development, particularly in empowering youth and women, creating employment opportunities, and appointing individuals into government positions. Describing him as “a man of impact and an embodiment of humility,” Onumoko applauded the Governor’s efforts to uplift the state.
Alhaji Aliyu Musa, chairman of the forum of DLGs in Kogi State, expressed gratitude to Governor Ododo for approving the N72,500 minimum wage for workers. He acknowledged that the Governor's initiatives had greatly improved the welfare of civil servants in the state. Musa also praised the Accountant General for her professional guidance in local government administration.
The session concluded with a renewed commitment from all participants to advance the delivery of democracy’s dividends to the people of Kogi State.
