Ododo gave the directive on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, through his deputy, Joel Salifu, during the swearing-in ceremony held at the Glass House, Government House, Lokoja.

The governor called on the council chairmen to collaborate with security agencies, traditional rulers and community leaders to protect lives and property, stressing that communities across the state must not be left vulnerable to criminal activities.

He also urged them to focus on essential services and infrastructure, including rural roads, primary healthcare, basic education and environmental sanitation. He encouraged the councils to introduce programmes that expand opportunities for young people and women.

Congratulating the chairmen on their election, Ododo thanked the people of Kogi State for supporting the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the local government elections.

The party secured all 21 chairmanship positions and 239 councillorship seats in the October 17, 2026, elections, according to results announced by the Kogi State Independent Electoral Commission.

Ododo described the outcome as a responsibility to serve the people rather than merely a political victory. He urged the newly elected officials to fulfil their campaign promises and demonstrate through their performance that they deserved the confidence placed in them by voters.

The governor also expressed confidence in continued support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and APC candidates ahead of the 2027 general elections, including state House of Assembly contests. He commended Tinubu’s leadership and the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

On financial management, Ododo directed the chairmen to ensure public funds were handled responsibly and transparently, with spending focused on the needs of their respective communities.

He further urged them to remain accessible, humble and fair in their dealings with residents, regardless of political affiliation, emphasising the importance of inclusive leadership at the grassroots.

The governor assured the council chairmen of the state government’s support as they begin their tenure, expressing the expectation that their administrations would improve local services and strengthen development across Kogi’s communities.

The swearing-in marks the beginning of a new term for the elected council leaders, with security, responsible management of public resources and the delivery of basic services among the key expectations facing the new administrations.

Reporting by TalkNaija Media