By Abah Benjamin Eneojoh
May 19, 2025 | Lokoja, Kogi State
In a renewed effort to promote peaceful coexistence and enhance security in Kogi State, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has held a high-level engagement with leaders of the Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI) and the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) at the Government House in Lokoja.
The interfaith meeting, held at the Conference Hall, underscored the administration’s commitment to building bridges between religious communities and fostering a harmonious environment for all citizens.
Governor Ododo, while addressing the leaders, expressed deep gratitude for their unwavering support during the 2023 governorship election. He described their backing as not merely political but profoundly spiritual.
“Let me begin by expressing my sincere appreciation to all of you for your unwavering support—not only during the election but from the very beginning of this journey,” he said. “You believed in me when I presented myself as a servant of the people. You stood with me in faith, in prayers, and with the hope that I would serve with integrity, humility, and the fear of God Almighty. Your support was not political but spiritual.”
He cautioned against any actions that could disrupt the peace of the state and specifically warned local government chairmen to refrain from allocating land to individuals of questionable character.
Chairman of JNI, Ambassador Usman Bello, and the CAN Chairman, Special Apostle Adegboye Emmanuel, both commended the governor for his inclusive approach and praised his victory at the Supreme Court, describing it as well deserved.
They also lauded Governor Ododo for his developmental strides across sectors and his commitment to the prompt payment of workers’ salaries, a key indicator of responsible governance.
A symbolic highlight of the event was the joint presentation of the Holy Bible and the Glorious Qur’an to Governor Ododo—an act symbolizing interfaith unity, peace, and spiritual endorsement of his leadership.
The engagement further reinforces the governor’s strategy of leveraging partnerships with religious and community leaders to drive progress and maintain peace across the state.
