Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to the preservation of cultural values and the empowerment of women and girls through provision of a safe, secure, and inclusive environment for the people to thrive.
Speaking at the 2025 Ovia Osese festival in Ogori, Ogori-Magongo Local Government Area of Kogi State, Governor Ododo described the festival as not only a proud cultural heritage but also a strong moral compass that aligns with his administration’s drive to promote dignity, discipline, and purposeful living among young people, Ismaila Isah, Special Adviser on Media to the Governor quoted him to have said.
“This festival which honours young girls who have preserved their purity and discipline is a shining example of how our culture can promote virtue, character and community strength.
“As a government, we see our daughters as the future. We are committed to creating opportunities and safe spaces for them to grow, lead, and succeed”, Governor Ododo said.
The Governor commended the Ogori community for preserving the age-long tradition and called on other communities to continue to uphold customs that elevate the moral and developmental aspirations of young girls and women.
He emphasized the ongoing state wide initiatives that promote gender inclusion, access to quality education, healthcare, and skill acquisition for girls and women.
According to him, the prevailing peace and unity in Ogori community must be sustained and consolidated upon in the best interests of the people.
Governor Ododo noted that Kogi State has maintained one of the highest levels of women inclusion in governance, with female voices shaping decisions and driving community development, stressing that ongoing investments in education, healthcare, agriculture and infrastructure are essential for the development of the state and to secure the future of young people.
He further emphasized the importance of preserving traditional values while embracing modernization, urging community leaders to work closely with the government in instilling the right morals in the younger generation.
“At a time when modern influences often change traditional values, the Ovia Osese festival reminds us of who we are, it teaches our young people that self respect, discipline and moral clarity are not outdated concepts but they are endearing foundations upon which great societies are built”, he said.
Ododo charged the people of Ogori community to continue to promote peace, unity and togetherness which he said will strengthen cultural ties among the people of the state.
He assured that his administration remains unwavering in its resolve to promote equity, safeguard the rights of women and girls, and create an inclusive future for all citizens of Kogi State.
Governor Ododo called on tourists, cultural enthusiasts, and development partners to support the festival, adding that Kogi State is open for tourism, investment and promotion of cultural exchanges.