The Kogi State Government has announced that it has fully settled a debt burden of ₦98.8 billion within just 15 months. The announcement came on Monday during a press briefing held at the Government House in Lokoja after a State Executive Council meeting.
Speaking to journalists, the Commissioner for Finance and Economic Planning, Ashiru Idris, said the debt payment covered liabilities dating back several years, including debts inherited from previous administrations.
These include debts from the time of former Governor Alhaji Ibrahim Idris as well as a ₦50 billion salary bailout fund accessed during the tenure of Capt. Idris Wada.
“So far, this administration under the leadership of Alhaji Usman Ododo has liquidated a total of ₦98.8bn inherited from the previous administration of Alhaji Ibrahim Idris and the ₦50bn salary bailout granted Capt Idris Wada administration,” he said.
Ashiru noted that the achievement was possible due to an improvement in the state’s internally generated revenue. Though he did not give exact figures on revenue growth, he credited better financial strategies and effective management for the progress made.
Also speaking at the briefing, Commissioner for Information Kingsley Fanwo shared updates on other areas of development. He noted that the state government has started constructing perimeter fencing at the Confluence University of Science and Technology, Osara.
This move follows a security issue that occurred at the campus last year and is aimed at ensuring the safety of students and staff.
In addition to infrastructural upgrades, the government has also created a new agency to deal with climate-related challenges. The commissioner said the agency will focus on responding to the effects of climate change and improving environmental safety across the state.
Both commissioners agreed that these efforts reflect the current administration’s focus on responsible governance, improved security, and sustainable development. They assured the public that more initiatives are on the way to improve the standard of living in thestate.
