Abuja, Nigeria – The President of the Igala Cultural and Development Association (ICDA), Surgeon Commodore Ahmed Alhaji Abdulai (Rtd.), has called for urgent government intervention in addressing the environmental and infrastructural challenges caused by solid mineral exploration in Igala land.
Speaking on Thursday during the ICDA Executive Council meeting in Abuja, Abdulai highlighted the adverse effects of mining activities, particularly in Ankpa Local Government Area (LGA), where deteriorating roads and environmental degradation have severely impacted local communities.
“The exploration of solid minerals in Igala land and its effect on the environment needs urgent attention. Mining practices require immediate review, and the harmful impact of mining on settlements and road infrastructure must be addressed. The roads in Ankpa LGA, in particular, are in a serious state of disrepair,” he stated.
He acknowledged the recent flag-off of the Idah-Ibaji Road rehabilitation project, urging the Kogi State Government to expedite work on other key roads in the region.
**“ICDA requests the governor of Kogi State to recall the contractors working on the Anyigba-Shintaku Road to the site for speedy completion. This project, when completed, will significantly reduce travel time between Kogi East and Kogi West.
“Additionally, ICDA calls for the rehabilitation of the Ankpa-Abejukolo and Ankpa-Adoka roads, both of which are in deplorable conditions.”**
ICDA’s Role in Cultural and Community Development
Abdulai emphasized that ICDA is a socio-cultural and civil society organization dedicated to the representation of the Igala and Bassa people in matters of culture, development, and welfare. The association traces its roots to the 1986 military government’s nationwide mobilization policies, including the Mass Mobilization for Self-Reliance, Social Justice, and Economic Recovery (MAMSER) and the Directorate of Food, Roads, and Rural Infrastructure (DFFRI).
He also noted that the association has undergone several leadership transitions, with the current 21-member executive inaugurated on August 10, 2024, at the Ata Igala’s Palace Pavilion in Idah, Kogi State.
Commendations for Leadership and Federal Projects
The ICDA president commended His Royal Majesty, Dr. Matthew Alaji Opaluwa Oguhche Akpa II, the Ata Igala, for his leadership in uniting the people and supporting the association. He also acknowledged the contributions of the Ejeh Dekina and the Ogohi Anyigba in advancing the association’s objectives.
On national infrastructure, Abdulai praised the federal government’s decision to invite the original builders of the Ajaokuta Steel Complex to conduct a study for its completion.
“This is a step in the right direction, as it will provide employment opportunities for many citizens in Kogi State,” he said.
He also lauded the government’s commitment to local government autonomy and the creation of the North Central Development Commission (NCDC) to drive regional development.
Electricity Crisis and the Guto-Bagana Bridge Project
Addressing the persistent electricity crisis in Kogi East, Abdulai lamented that despite the presence of the Geregu Power Plant across the River Niger, the region continues to suffer from power shortages.
“ICDA calls on the federal government to urgently address the lack of electricity in Kogi East, especially considering that we have the Geregu Power Plant in our backyard.”
He further urged the federal government to fast-track the construction of the Guto-Bagana Bridge across the River Benue, which will enhance connectivity between Nasarawa and Kogi states and improve trade between the northern and southern regions of Nigeria.
Security and Governance in Kogi State
The ICDA leader commended Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo for his proactive efforts in securing lives and property in Kogi State.
“We acknowledge the governor’s commitment to security, which has led to relative peace in the state compared to past experiences. This is a significant achievement that should be sustained.”
With these calls to action, the ICDA reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for policies and projects that will drive sustainable development in Kogi East and improve the welfare of its people.
