Kogi Governor Ododo Meets Anglican Bishops, Promises Stronger Church-Government Partnership
Kogi State Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has pledged stronger collaboration with religious leaders after receiving Anglican bishops in Lokoja, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to unity and development.
Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with religious leaders as part of efforts to promote unity, peace, and sustainable development across the state.
The governor made the pledge while receiving leaders of the Anglican Communion in Kogi State during a courtesy visit to the Government House, facilitated by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Energy Matters and Chairman of the Forum of Special Advisers, Omoluabi Bode Adeyemi.
The delegation was led by the Archbishop Emeritus of the Anglican Province of Lokoja and Bishop of Lokoja Diocese, Most Reverend Emmanuel Egbunu, alongside other senior clerics from various dioceses within the state.
Among those in the delegation were Rt. Rev. Joseph Musa, Bishop of Idah Diocese; Rt. Rev. (Dr.) Steven Akobe, Bishop of Kabba Diocese; Rt. Rev. Isezuo Onsachi, Bishop of Okene Diocese; and Rt. Rev. (Prof.) Paul Ojo.
Speaking during the meeting, Governor Ododo acknowledged the significant role of religious institutions in shaping moral values and fostering social development, describing the Anglican Church as a vital partner in the advancement of the state.
He commended the church for its longstanding contributions to education, healthcare, and community development, noting that the Anglican Communion has remained a moral compass for the Christian community and a key force for societal progress in Kogi State and beyond.
The governor said his administration would continue to work closely with faith-based organisations to deepen unity and drive meaningful development initiatives.
Governor Ododo also emphasised the importance of cooperation between government and religious leaders in building a peaceful and prosperous society, stressing that faith leaders remain critical stakeholders in promoting social harmony.
Earlier, Most Reverend Emmanuel Egbunu commended the governor for what he described as his humble leadership style and people-oriented governance.
He praised the administration’s welfare-focused policies, particularly its efforts in prioritising the wellbeing of public servants and improving governance outcomes.
The Archbishop also lauded Governor Ododo’s development vision for the state, especially plans to establish an airport in Kogi, as well as the government’s security initiatives aimed at safeguarding lives and property.
He assured the governor of the Anglican Church’s continued prayers and spiritual support, expressing confidence in his leadership and commitment to serving the people with integrity.
“We will continue to pray for the governor and the state as he leads with the fear of God,” the Archbishop said.
In his remarks, Omoluabi Bode Adeyemi, who facilitated the visit, described the Anglican Communion as an institution that has played a major role in promoting moral values and spiritual development.
He noted that the church has remained a strong foundation for ethical leadership and character building, shaping the lives of many Christians across generations.
Adeyemi also commended Governor Ododo for his inclusive leadership style and openness to people of different faiths, describing him as visionary, patriotic, and committed to the development of Kogi State.
The meeting further underscored the state government’s efforts to deepen engagement with key stakeholders, including religious leaders, as part of broader efforts to foster unity and accelerate development.