Kogi State Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has flagged off the construction of the 20 km Obajana-Uro-Aku rural road, linking parts of Lokoja and Adavi local government areas.
The project is part of the interventions by the Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (RAAMP), supported by the World Bank Group and other stakeholders in the agricultural development value chain. It is the first phase of an over 65 km network of rural roads in the state intended to create access to farms, farming communities, and markets to ensure food security.
Governor Ododo, who performed the flag-off at a ceremony in Apata near Obajana, emphasized the pivotal role of rural roads in the development agenda of his administration. He added that these roads will not only enhance transportation but also serve as a catalyst for rural economic growth and food security in the state.
He noted that the roads will provide access and connectivity to farmers and traders as part of his administration’s broader strategy to enhance rural development and bring governance closer to the people in local communities.
While appealing to the benefiting communities to take ownership of the project, Governor Ododo gave a stern warning to contractors handling the project not to divert project funds, urging them to demonstrate a high level of integrity and professionalism in project delivery.
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On his part, the State Commissioner for Rural and Energy Development, Engineer Abdulmutalib Mohammed, stated that the project is meant to benefit farmers, especially by reducing transportation costs and improving accessibility for both farmers and traders in the state.
In his remarks, the National Coordinator of RAAMP, Engineer Aminu Bodinga, represented by Mrs. Joy Amadi, commended Governor Ododo for his unwavering commitment to rural development, which she noted would enhance connectivity and access to markets, social services, and opportunities that were previously out of reach for rural dwellers.
Similarly, the State Coordinator of the project, Sheidu Obansa, stated that the network of rural roads will expose the communities to new opportunities and promote agricultural development in the state.
Speaking on the development, the Olu of Oworo, Muhammed Adoga Baiyerohi, commended Governor Ododo on the road project, noting that it will enhance agricultural development and reduce vehicular traffic along Obajana Road.
Other traditional rulers who spoke on the development also commended Governor Ododo for the initiative to help rural dwellers, who are mostly farmers and traders in the state.
