Kogi government cleared N98.8bn debt in 15 months, says commissioner

The Kogi government says it has cleared a debt of N98.8 billion in the last 15 months under the administration of Usman Ododo, governor of the state.

Asiwaju Idris, the Kogi commissioner for finance, budget and economic planning, announced the development on Tuesday in Lokoja during a press briefing held after the state executive council meeting.

Idris noted that the liquidated debt, inherited by the state government, included N8 billion in bonds from the former Idris Wada administration and N50.8 billion in salary bailouts during the tenure of former governor Yahaya Bello.

He said the state government cleared a N10 billion ECA-backed infrastructure loan, N15 billion infrastructure loans from Zenith Bank, and another N15 billion from UBA Plc.

“This is a landmark achievement. His Excellency Governor Ododo has demonstrated fiscal discipline and commitment to economic recovery,” Idris said.

He added that Fitch Ratings has upgraded Kogi state’s credit rating from ‘B-’ to ‘B’, with a stable outlook, citing prudent financial management.

Kingsley Fanwo, the commissioner for information and communications, highlighted Ododo’s commitment to grassroots development, economic sustainability, and infrastructural growth.

Fanwo relayed the governor’s directive for government officials to remain closely connected with the grassroots and engage constantly with the people, emphasising that such connection is key to responsive governance.

“We are in government to serve the people, and that means staying connected to their needs and aspirations,” Fanwo said.

He said the governor has directed all government officials to wear made-in-Kogi fabrics as a show of support for indigenous industries.

“Governor Ododo is driving a government that listens, learns, and leads from the grassroots. His directive on Made-in-Kogi fabrics is a strategic move to grow our economy and export our identity,” Fanwo added.