Owiya Osese Festival 2026: Ododo Applauds Magongo Culture, Girl-Child Education in Kogi
Governor Usman Ahmed Ododo has praised the cultural heritage of Magongo and its commitment to girl-child education at the 2026 Owiya Osese Festival in Kogi State.
MAGONGO, KOGI STATE
Governor has commended the people of Magongo in for preserving their rich cultural heritage and promoting girl-child education, describing both as critical pillars for sustainable development.
The governor made the remarks during the grand finale of the 2026 Owiya Osese Festival, held on Saturday in Magongo. He was represented at the event by his deputy.
Speaking at the ceremony, Ododo described the Owiya Osese Festival as more than a cultural celebration, noting that it serves as a vital platform for safeguarding the traditions, values, and identity of the Magongo people for future generations.
He particularly lauded the community’s commitment to girl-child education, revealing that recent data shows a higher number of girls enrolled in schools than boys in the area — a development he described as commendable.
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to policies that support the education and empowerment of young girls. He disclosed that under the Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE) Project, over 13,000 adolescent girls across the state have received financial support to remain in school.
Ododo also praised the character and resilience of Magongo women, highlighting their discipline, dignity, and industrious nature as qualities that continue to bring pride to Kogi State.
He urged young people in the community to remain peaceful, uphold their cultural values, and channel their energy into productive ventures that will contribute to the development of the state.
The governor congratulated the Magongo Development Association and residents of the community for the successful hosting of the festival, expressing optimism about its continued growth and relevance.
In his remarks, the National President of the Magongo Development Association, explained that the Owiya Osese Festival is a traditional rite marking the transition of young girls into adulthood and readiness for marriage. He noted that the cultural practice promotes chastity, discipline, and moral uprightness.
Jordan also appreciated the state government for reinstating the traditional ruler of the community, His Royal Highness, , adding that the move has strengthened community support for the administration. He, however, appealed for urgent rehabilitation of roads in the area.
In a welcome address, the Chairman of Ogori-Mangogo Local Government congratulated the young women participating in the rite of passage. She encouraged them to pursue education, uphold good values, and prepare for responsible adulthood.
The Owiya Osese Festival remains one of the most significant cultural events in the region, attracting wide participation and reinforcing community identity.
