By Ahmed Ododo
Kogi State has witnessed a remarkable chapter in its history with the emergence of Hajia SefiyaUsman Ahmed Ododo as His First Lady, marking the first time an indigenous woman from the Ebiraethnic group has held this esteemed position since the state’s creation. Her ascendancy as First Lady underlines a significant moment, celebrating the roots and cultural heritage of KogiState while also highlighting her contributions to the upliftment of youths and women.
A Historical Perspective: Kogi State Before and After Creation
Before the creation of Kogi State in 1991, the region was part of Kwara State, and its political landscape was influenced by leaders from various ethnic backgrounds. Notably, Alhaji Adamu Atta, an Ebira man, served as the first civilian governor of the then Kwara State from 1979 to 1983. His tenure was significant, but his First Lady was not an Ebira woman, adding to the historical narrative of non-indigenous First Ladies representing the region.
After the creation of Kogi State, the first Ebiraman to emerge as governor was His Excellency Alhaji Yahaya Adoza Bello. Again, his First Lady was not from the Ebira ethnic group but hailed from Edo State, continuing the tradition of First Ladies from outside the indigenous communities of Kogi State.
A New Dawn: The Emergence of Hajia SefiyaUsman Ahmed Ododo
The inauguration of Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododoas governor has brought about a historic change. For the first time in Kogi’s history, an indigenous Ebira woman, Hajia Sefiya Usman Ahmed Ododo, assumed the role of First Lady. Her rise to this position is not just a matter of ethnic pride but also a testament to her character, grace, and dedication to the people of Kogi State. HajiaSefiya is an embodiment of humility, compassion, and strength. Her love for the downtrodden, particularly her support for women and youths, is one of the hallmarks of her public persona.
Her deep concern for the welfare of the people mirrors that of her husband, His Excellency Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, who has also been lauded for his commitment to uplifting the less privileged in society.
A Champion for Women and Youth Empowerment
One of the most commendable aspects of HajiaSefiya’s role as First Lady is her focus on empowering young women. Her support for initiatives aimed at developing the skills and potential of women has been particularly significant, especially in a region where opportunities for women can sometimes be limited. She has consistently advocated for the education, vocational training, and empowerment of young girls, ensuring that they have the tools to build a better future for themselves and their communities.
Preserving Ebira Heritage: The OdodoWeaving Centre
As a culturally aware First Lady, Hajia Sefiya has a unique opportunity to play a critical role in preserving the rich traditions of the Ebira people. One of the most important cultural legacies is the traditional handloom weaving technique, which has been passed down through generations. The Ododo Weaving Centre, a place where young girls have mastered this ancient art, is a testament to the Ebira people’s ingenuity and craftsmanship.
By providence, the centre shares its name with her husband, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, making it a fitting project for Hajia Sefiya to champion. We use this medium to draw her attention to the potential transformation of the Ododo Weaving Centre into the Ododo Handloom Weaving Institute. This institute could serve as a training ground for upcoming generations of young girls, helping them to master and preserve this central aspect of Ebira heritage. With HajiaSefiya’s commitment to empowering women and her deep connection to her roots, we are confident that posterity will remember her for revitalizing and preserving this cultural art form.
A Legacy of Humility and Service
Hajia Sefiya Usman Ahmed Ododo stands as a shining example of humility, grace, and service. Her genuine care for the downtrodden and her commitment to the advancement of women and youth are qualities that set her apart. These traits are clearly inherited from her husband, who has also demonstrated a deep sense of humility and service to his people. Together, they represent a leadership duo that is not only focused on governance but also on the social and economic empowerment of the people they serve.
As the first indigenous First Lady of Kogi State, Hajia Sefiya has already made her mark, and with continued efforts to uplift and empower, she is poised to leave a lasting legacy. We pray that God continues to guide and empower her as she takes on this important role and that her vision for the Ododo Handloom Weaving Institute becomes a reality. In doing so, she will ensure that the rich cultural heritage of the Ebira people is preserved for future generations while creating economic opportunities for young women in the process.
The people of Kogi State are fortunate to have such a compassionate and dedicated First Lady in Hajia Sefiya Usman Ahmed Ododo. Her commitment to service, her passion for empowering the youth, and her efforts to preserve the cultural legacy of the Ebira people will ensure that she is remembered as an icon of humility, grace, and cultural pride.
Ahmed Adoke wrote from Nagazi-Uvete, Adavi LG, Kogi state