Ododo Flags Off 37km Idah-Ibaji Road Project in Kogi State

Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has flagged off the construction of a 37-kilometre road linking Idah Local Government Area to the headquarters of Ibaji Local Government Area, describing the project as part of efforts to improve rural connectivity and stimulate economic activities.

Ododo performed the flag-off ceremony on Monday, saying the project fulfilled his administration’s commitment to bringing infrastructure development closer to rural communities and ensuring a more equitable distribution of public projects across the state.

The governor explained that the delay before the commencement of construction was necessary to allow proper planning, due diligence and adequate preparation for effective project delivery.

He maintained that governance should focus on deliberate actions and tangible results rather than political showmanship.

Ododo urged residents to put development above political differences, stressing that infrastructure projects and government interventions should benefit communities regardless of their political affiliations.

He also commended President Bola Tinubu for his leadership and support for development at the state level, noting that the road would improve transportation, facilitate the movement of agricultural produce and create opportunities for commercial activities.

The governor charged China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC), the contractor handling the project, to deliver a durable road in accordance with approved specifications.

He said residents could no longer afford to endure poor road infrastructure and urged the construction company to maintain the required standards throughout the project.

Beyond the road project, Ododo cautioned traditional rulers against actions capable of triggering communal disputes and insecurity. He urged them to use their positions to promote peaceful coexistence, warning that traditional rulers found instigating communal crises would be held accountable under the law.

The Commissioner for Works, Momoh Ozigi, described the project as the fulfilment of a longstanding demand by residents of the affected communities.

He said the road had remained in poor condition for more than 20 years, with seasonal flooding and damaged sections making transportation particularly difficult during the rainy season.

According to the commissioner, the condition of the road had affected agricultural production, healthcare delivery, transportation and other economic activities in the area.

Ozigi appealed to residents, community leaders and other stakeholders to cooperate with CCECC, maintain a peaceful environment for construction activities and protect public infrastructure.

The Chairman of Ibaji Local Government Area, Alexander Ukwela, also welcomed the commencement of the project, expressing appreciation to the governor for addressing the community’s longstanding concerns.

Ukwela recalled Ododo’s visit to the area on July 13, 2026, when the governor reportedly promised to reconstruct the road. He described the flag-off as the beginning of the fulfilment of that commitment and pledged the cooperation of the council and community stakeholders.

When completed, the 37-kilometre Idah-Ibaji road is expected to improve transportation, enhance access to essential services, support agricultural activities and strengthen commercial connections between communities in the two local government areas.