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New Kogi Media, Kogi NUJ, Lokoja (2026)

16/03/2026

Hon. Baba Anana Stephen is a seasoned grassroots politician and committed public servant with years of experience in governance, community development, and legislative support.

Known for his dedication to the people and his passion for service, he has consistently contributed to the growth and development of his community and Kogi State at large.

He currently serves as the Councillor representing Igo Ward in Ofu Local Government Council, where he continues to champion policies and initiatives that promote development and improve the welfare of his constituents.

Over the years, Hon. BabaAnana Stephen has served in several key capacities, including:

• Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to Isah Ameh, former Chairman of Ofu Local Government Area.

• Special Adviser on Constituency Projects to David Idris Zacharias, Member representing National Assembly of Nigeria.

• Special Adviser to Jibrin Isah Echocho, Senator representing Kogi East at the National Assembly of Nigeria.

• Senior Special Assistant on Erosion Control to Yahaya Bello, former Governor of Kogi State.

Through these roles, he has demonstrated leadership, administrative competence, and a deep commitment to grassroots development.

Hon. Baba Anana Stephen remains a trusted voice of the people, focused on service, progress, and sustainable development for his community.

11/03/2026

Bala Musa Eleojo Declares for APC North Central Organizing Secretary

Hon. Prince Bala Musa Eleojo has formally declared his intention to contest for the position of North Central Organizing Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the party’s forthcoming Zonal Congress and National Convention.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, Eleojo said his decision followed extensive consultations with party leaders, stakeholders, and members across the North Central region and beyond.

According to him, the aspiration is driven by his commitment to strengthening the unity, organization, and growth of the ruling party.

Eleojo noted that over the years he has been actively involved in grassroots mobilization and party organization, working with party faithful and stakeholders to deepen the structures of the APC and promote its progressive ideals.

He recalled that during the 2022 APC National Convention, he contested for the position of North Central Youth Leader alongside seven other aspirants, describing the experience as one that provided him with deeper insight into the organizational responsibilities within the party.

The APC chieftain said his aspiration for the Organizing Secretary position is anchored on a commitment to strengthen party coordination, improve grassroots mobilization, and promote unity among party structures and stakeholders across the North Central zone.

Eleojo also appealed to party leaders, delegates, and members to support his aspiration as the party prepares for its upcoming congresses and convention.

He expressed optimism that with collective support, the APC would continue to consolidate its strength and success across the region.

09/03/2026

Hon. Baba Anana Stephen Declares for Ofu State House of Assembly, 2027

The Kogi State Coordinator of Ododo Youth Movement, Hon. Baba Anana Stephen, has officially declared his intention to contest for the Ofu Local Government State House of Assembly seat in 2027, describing it as a call to serve and represent the good people of Ofu LGA.

Hon. Baba Anana Stephen, a committed grassroots mobilizer and loyal supporter of His Excellency, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, distinguished himself during the struggle for the Igala Agenda, where he took bold risks and made significant sacrifices to ensure the success of the movement that eventually produced the current administration.

Being a son of the soil who has consistently demonstrated loyalty, courage, and dedication to the cause of the people, many believe that this is the right time for him to reap the fruits of his labor and commitment to the progress of Kogi State.

As the political journey toward 2027 begins, Hon. Baba Anana Stephen stands out as a credible and capable choice to represent the good people of Ofu LGA in the Kogi State House of Assembly.

His experience, loyalty, and grassroots connection position him as a strong voice who can effectively champion the interests and development of his constituency.

Indeed, the people of Ofu LGA have an opportunity to support one of their own, someone who has stood firm for the collective interest and has shown readiness to serve with dedication and integrity.

03/03/2026

Nigeria–German Economic Summit: Minister of Steel Development, Prince Shuaibu Abubakar Audu Advances Strategic Investment Talks in Germany

At the ongoing Nigeria–German Economic Summit in Dortmund, Germany, the Honourable Minister of Steel Development, Prince Shuaibu Abubakar Audu, on Monday, March 2, 2026, has advanced Nigeria’s investment drive through high-level bilateral engagements with leading German industrial corporations, including with the management of Hüttenwerke Krupp Mannesmann (HKM) GmbH at its steel facility in Duisburg.

The engagement forms part of Nigeria’s broader strategy to attract Foreign Direct Investments (FDI) and reposition the steel and aluminium value chain as a key pillar of national economic growth, in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.

During the visit, both parties held extensive discussions focused on attracting new investments into Nigeria’s steel sector; facilitating technology and knowledge transfer in modern steel production; promoting sustainable and environmentally responsible manufacturing practices; and strengthening capacity building and skills development for Nigerian professionals in the metallurgical industry.

Minister Audu reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for investors through policy reforms, strategic partnerships, and infrastructure development, noting that the revitalisation of the steel sector remains central to Nigeria’s industrialisation and economic diversification objectives.

“Nigeria is open to credible, long-term strategic partnerships that will unlock the full potential of our steel sector value chain. With abundant raw materials, a growing domestic market, and strong political will, this is the right time to invest in Nigeria,” the Minister said.

In his remarks, the Chief Technology Officer and Member of the Board of HKM GmbH, Dr. Peter Biele, commended the Minister’s visit and expressed the company’s interest in exploring mutually beneficial areas of cooperation with Nigeria, particularly in advancing efficient and sustainable steel production.

He noted that the engagement reflects the growing economic and industrial ties between Germany and Nigeria, and reaffirmed HKM’s commitment to fostering innovation, sustainability, and long-term industrial collaboration in Africa.

The meeting underscores Nigeria’s proactive economic diplomacy under the Honourable Minister, positioning the country as an emerging hub for industrial production and value-added manufacturing in Africa while strengthening investor confidence in the Federal Government’s reform-driven approach to revitalising the steel sector.

Lizzy Okoji

Special Assistant (Media) to the Honourable Minister of Steel Development, Prince Shuaibu Abubakar

March 3, 2026

01/03/2026

Federal Polytechnic Idah Matriculates 3,820 Students, Secures 100% NBTE Accreditation

The Rector of Federal Polytechnic Idah, Dr. Yahaya Baba Usman, has charged newly admitted students to pursue academic excellence and shun social vices as the institution formally matriculated 3,820 students for the 2025/2026 academic session.

The ceremony, which is the 39th of the Institution and held at the Aliyu Obaje Lecture Theatre, School of Environmental Studies, marked the fourth matriculation presided over by Dr. Usman since his appointment as Rector of the Polytechnic.

The students were admitted into various National Diploma (ND) and Higher National Diploma (HND) programmes of the Polytechnic.

Speaking at the event, the Rector described matriculation as the formal induction of new students into the academic community and urged them to justify the confidence reposed in them by their parents and the institution.

“This ceremony marks the beginning of your academic journey. Matriculation is the starting point, while convocation is the destination. You must remain focused and committed to your studies to graduate successfully and become relevant in society."

Dr. Usman warned the students against cultism, examination malpractice, indecent dressing, religious intolerance, and other acts capable of disrupting the peace of the institution.

He reiterated that the ban on sign-out ceremonies on campus remains in force, stressing that violators would face disciplinary action.

The Rector, assured students of management’s commitment to their welfare and security, urging them to remain security-conscious, embrace dialogue in resolving grievances, and actively participate in sports and recreational activities.

Dr. Usman commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for establishing the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), which he said has expanded access to higher education.

According to him, 424 students benefited from the scheme in the 2023/2024 academic session, while 1,470 students benefited in the 2024/2025 session.

While noting that over 2,000 students have applied for the facility in the current 2025/2026 session, the Rector added that over seventy million Naira has been disbursed to students of the Polytechnic since the commencement of the loan programme.

Highlighting achievements under his administration, the Rector, said the institution has secured accreditation and resource inspection for 50 programmes, with 14 new programmes introduced since he assumed office.

The Rector, commended the Executive Secretary of NBTE, Idris Bugaji, for his commitment to strengthening technical education and promoting mandatory skills training for polytechnic students nationwide.

A matriculating student, Mariam Haruna of the Science Laboratory Technology (SLT) Department, expressed appreciation to her parents for their support.

“I thank my parents for supporting me to come here. Thank you so much. Thank you everyone."

On her part, Sidi-Ali Khadijat from the Marketing Department, who also shared her excitement, said she decided to chose the Polytechnic because they are good in studies.

A parent, Mrs. Gloria Israel from Olamaboro, whose son was among the matriculating students, also expressed her delight at the ceremony.

“I’m very happy. I’m grateful. This is my first time coming to this school and attending this kind of event because it is my first son that is here."

According to her, witnessing the ceremony inspired her deeply.

“Coming here today, I feel that all my children who are of school age should be part of this matriculation. Even the younger one who wanted to go to another school, I feel he should be here. I will encourage him to write JAMB and come to Idah."

Mrs. Israel urged the students to stay focused on their academics.

The colourful event ended with the formal administration of the matriculation oath on the newly admitted students, symbolizing their official induction into the academic community of the Polytechnic as well as the recognition of outstanding students for their academic excellence and examplary conduct by the Rector.

01/03/2026

Ebonyi Gov Suspends Works, Infrastructure Commissioners

Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Nwifuru, has approved the indefinite suspension of the Commissioner for Works, Stanley Mbam, and the Commissioner for Infrastructure Concession for Development, Ogbonnaya Abara, over allegations of dereliction of duty.

This was announced in a statement issued on Saturday by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Monday Uzor.

According to the statement obtained by our correspondent, the governor directed the affected commissioners to immediately hand over all government property in their possession, including official vehicles, to the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Grace Umezurike.

“The Governor of Ebonyi State, His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, FNIOB, FCAI, GGCEHF, has approved the indefinite suspension from office of Engr. Stanley Lebechi Mbam, Honourable Commissioner for Works, and Engr. Ogbonnaya Obasi Abara, Honourable Commissioner for Infrastructure Concession for Development, for dereliction of duties.

“They are to hand over all government property in their possession, including their official vehicles, to the Secretary to the State Government with immediate effect,” the statement partly read.

The suspension comes amid heightened scrutiny of public projects in the state capital, with residents calling for improved efficiency and accountability in the delivery of infrastructure initiatives.

27/02/2026

Comr. Onuh Edoka: A Tested Voice for Ankpa Federal Constituency Ahead of 2027

By Mike Abu Oshiomieh

As political conversations gradually begin to shape the contours of the 2027 general elections, one name that continues to resonate strongly across Ankpa Federal Constituency is Comr. Onuh Edoka, former Kogi State Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and current Special Adviser on Labour Matters to Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo.

Widely regarded as a principled and people-oriented leader, Edoka’s emergence in early opinion soundings as a potential frontrunner for the Ankpa Federal Constituency seat has sparked growing interest among constituents. His leadership trajectory, defined by steadfast commitment to workers’ welfare and social justice, has earned him credibility within and beyond the labour movement.

During his tenure as Kogi State NLC Chairman, Edoka was known for his firm but strategic engagement with government and stakeholders, championing improved working conditions, labour rights, and constructive dialogue. His approach combined advocacy with diplomacy, qualities many observers believe are essential for effective legislative representation.

Beyond labour activism, Edoka has built a reputation as an articulate communicator capable of engaging diverse interests and forging consensus. Supporters argue that these skills would translate effectively into the National Assembly, where negotiation, representation, and policy articulation are critical.

For many in Ankpa Federal Constituency, the appeal of Edoka’s potential candidacy lies in his grassroots connection and demonstrated understanding of the socio-economic challenges facing ordinary citizens. His background in labour advocacy, they contend, reflects a deep sensitivity to issues of welfare, equity, and inclusive development.

While 2027 may still seem distant, political momentum often begins long before formal declarations. Conversations across the constituency suggest a growing call for Edoka to consider offering himself for service. To his supporters, his experience, fresh ideas, and reform-driven mindset position him as a figure capable of reinvigorating representation and advancing development priorities.

Whether he ultimately answers the call remains a matter of time and personal decision. What is clear, however, is that Comr. Onuh Edoka’s name has firmly entered the discourse surrounding Ankpa Federal Constituency’s political future, an indication of the confidence many place in his leadership capacity and public service record.

27/02/2026

AGILE Project: Kogi Government to Renovate 728 Public Secondary Schools Across Three Senatorial Districts

The Kogi State Government has commenced preparations for the large-scale renovation of 728 public secondary schools across the state’s three senatorial districts under the AGILE Project.

The State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo disclosed this at a one-day Environmental and Social Compliance Training for Technical Service Providers under the Kogi AGILE Project, held in Lokoja.

The training, supported by the World Bank, brought together building industry professionals who will oversee the ex*****on of the renovation works across the state.

The project’s Component 1.2, which focuses on infrastructure renewal, will kick off with the renovation of 150 public secondary schools in the first phase. The remaining 578 schools will be addressed in subsequent phases, bringing the total number of benefiting schools to 728.

Represented by the Commissioner for Education, Mr. Wemi Jones, Governor Ododo emphasized that 30 Technical Service Providers were selected and trained to understand and strictly adhere to World Bank guidelines, specifications, and operational culture in project implementation.

He noted that while government can facilitate opportunities, performance and delivery rest squarely on the shoulders of the contractors.

“We can only help you secure the job; we cannot do it for you. The responsibility to deliver quality work according to specifications lies with you,” the Governor stated, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to repositioning the education sector.

The Governor urged Technical Service Providers (TSPs) engaged for the project to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, quality, and compliance in delivering the assignment.

In a remark, Mr. Erinms Emmanuel of the Admin/Grievance Redress Mechanism, National Project Coordinating Unit, said the AGILE Project is currently being implemented in 21 states, with seven already recording significant progress.

He urged the service providers to ensure transparency, integrity, and strict adherence to quality standards in the utilization of funds disbursed for the project, noting that proper ex*****on is critical to safeguarding the state from financial liabilities.

Earlier in his welcome address, the Kogi State Project Coordinator of Kogi State Adolescent Girls Initiative For Learning and Empowerment - AGILE, Ahmed Tijani Oricha, explained that the training was designed to strengthen the capacity of Technical Service Providers in understanding and implementing environmental and social management safeguards tied to the AGILE Project.

According to him, the goal is to ensure that renovation works across schools are safe, inclusive, environmentally responsible, and socially sustainable.

He stressed that decisions taken on-site including workforce management, community engagement, and risk mitigation must align with World Bank environmental and social safety standards, including safeguards against gender-based violence.

A Resource Person and Environmental Consultant at the National Project Coordinating Unit in Abuja, Dr. Fadele Idowu, noted that participants were equipped with comprehensive knowledge of environmental protocols and safeguard instruments required for effective project ex*****on.

Some of the Technical Service Providers, including Architect John Attah, Chairman of the Kogi State Chapter of the Nigerian Institute of Architects, alongside Engineers Rahimat Muhammad and Salihu Adinoyi, described the training as impactful and timely.

They pledged to comply fully with the code of conduct signed and to deliver projects in strict accordance with approved specifications.

26/02/2026

Comr. Rilwan Abubakar Obaje Delivers 60-Capacity Relaxation Centre as PAAU VC Commissions Facility in Honour of Prof. Marietu Tenuche

The Vice Chancellor of Prince Abubakar Audu University (PAAU), Anyigba, Professor Usman Salisu Ogbo, on Thursday, 26th February 2026, commissioned a 60-capacity modern relaxation centre named in honour of the immediate past Vice Chancellor of the University, Professor Marietu Ohunene Tenuche.

The facility, constructed by the Student Union Government (SUG) under the leadership of its President, Comrade Rilwan Abubakar Obaje, is designed to provide students with a conducive environment for relaxation and social interaction within the university campus.

Speaking shortly after commissioning the project, Professor Ogbo commended the SUG leadership for its foresight, initiative, and commitment to student welfare.

He described the relaxation centre as a laudable development that would enhance the campus experience and promote a healthy balance between academic and social life.

The Vice Chancellor noted that naming the facility after Professor Tenuche was a fitting tribute to her remarkable contributions to the growth and development of the University during her tenure.

Earlier in his welcome address, Comrade Obaje expressed appreciation to the University Management for its support and cooperation, which he said made the project a reality.

He noted that the relaxation centre was part of the SUG’s broader agenda to improve students’ welfare and create spaces that foster unity and engagement among students.

The event was attended by principal officers of the University, staff, student leaders, and other members of the academic community, who lauded the initiative as a milestone achievement for the institution.

25/02/2026

PRESS RELEASE

Rejoinder on the Viral Video Incident

The attention given to the viral video showing a fight between a boy and a girl purported to be students in front of an eatery( CHOPHOUSE ) at the Federal Polytechnic Idah,Kogi state recently is hereby acknowledged.

We appreciate the concern and calls for action from the community and well meaning Nigerians.

After thorough investigation by our institution's security team, it has been established that neither the boy nor the girl involved in the incident is a student of our great institution,the Federal Polytechnic Idah. They were costumers at the eatery and knew each other prior to the incident.

The lady in question was invited and met with the Top Management Committee, chaired by the Rector during which she narrated all that happened that day.( It was captured on video)

Under the leadership of our amiable and pragmatic Rector, Dr. Y.B. Usman, the management will not allow criminal elements and villainous groups to disrupt the peace the Polytechnic is enjoying on the campus.

We urge social critics to verify incidents thoroughly before disseminating information that might mislead the public.

Our institution remains committed to providing a conducive environment for learning and will continue to ensure the safety and well-being of our students and staff.

The Polytechnic Management has cautioned the management of the CHOPHOUSE on security lapse on their part and directed to put necessary measures to avoid future occurrence.

S.S.OMALE
Head, Public Relations & Protocol

25/02/2026

NASC, NIPR PARTNER TOWARDS SUCCESSFUL HOSTING OF WORLD PUBLIC RELATIONS FORUM IN ABUJA

The National Assembly Service Commission (NASC) has avowed its unalloyed support for the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations to ensure the successful hosting of the prestigious World Public Relations Forum (WPRF) in Nigeria’s capital city, Abuja come November.

The World Public Relations Forum, held under the auspices of the Global Alliance for Public Relations and Communication Management, is a globally recognized platform that brings together public relations professionals, communication strategists, policymakers, academics, and business leaders from across the world to discuss emerging trends, ethical standards, innovation, and the future of strategic communication globally.

Nigeria recently won the right to host the 3-in-1 event in Abuja. On monday, the Acting President of the Institute, Prof Emmanuel Dandaura led a delegation of the National Planning Committee of the WPRF on a courtesy visit to the Executive Chairman of the Commission, Chief Saviour Enyiekere.

The visit was aimed at sensitising the Commission and soliciting its collaboration towards the successful hosting of the event.

The NASC boss, Chief Saviour Enyiekere affirmed the commitment of the Commission to work with the Instiute to make the event a very successful and memorable one, stressing that this initiative would greatly enhance Nigeria’s international reputation and strengthen institutional communication capacity. The Commission emphasized that hosting the Forum aligns with Nigeria’s broader objective of promoting transparency, effective governance, and global engagement . Chief Enyiekere was particularly delighted that the Institute was bringing people from about 150 countries to Nigeria at a time many foreigners believed the country was insecure.

He enthused: "It is a great job that you have done...it is a great feat to bring the world to Nigeria at this period that many foreigners are afraid of coming here because of fear of insecurity".

Earlier, Prof Dandaura explained that the World Public Relations Forum will provide an opportunity to showcase Nigeria’s expertise, cultural richness, and professional standards to the global community. He emphasised that
hosting the World Public Relations Forum in Abuja would :

Position Nigeria as a leading hub for strategic communication in Africa,boost tourism, hospitality, and related sectors,
foster international collaboration and investment opportunities, and promote ethical standards and innovation in public relations practice.

According to the NIPR leadership,,the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, as the statutory regulatory body for public relations practice in Nigeria, needed governmental backing for the proper regulation of communications profession as a way of properly projecting a positive narrative about the country.

In this regard, the institute urged the Commission to strive to comply with the NIPR laws that prohibit non professionals from holding any position or acting in any capacity as a spokesperson or protocol officer in any organisation without due qualification and registration with the institute.

Further, the instiute enjoined the Commission to avail its PR personnel of the numerous PR professional training and capacity building opportunities offered by the NIPR as way of equipping them with the knowledge and skills they needed for optimum performance of their duties.

Prof Dandaura also tasked the Commission to always sponsor its PR personnel to actively parricipate in all the institue's programmes, activities and trainings as these would help sharpen their skills and enhance productivity.

The Institute also requested the Executive Chairman to be part of its session on the legislature.

The visit was facilitated by the WPRF-NIPR Legislature Team working with the NASC Department of Public Affairs.

25/02/2026

Reps Summon REA Boss, Direct Response Within 48 Hours New

The House of Representatives Committee on Renewable Energy has directed the Managing Director of the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), Abba Aliyu, to appear before it on 2 March, following his absence at an ongoing investigative hearing in Abuja.

The chairman of the committee, Mr Afam Ogene, issued the directive after the agency’s chief executive failed to attend the session. He said Mr Aliyu must appear in person at the next sitting to respond to issues raised by lawmakers.

Mr Ogene also ordered the agency to submit a comprehensive written response to the committee within 48 hours, addressing concerns already tabled during the hearing.

He stressed that public officials must treat legislative oversight with the seriousness it deserves, particularly where it concerns programmes that affect the welfare of Nigerians.

The committee is currently conducting an investigation into matters relating to renewable energy projects and the operations of the Rural Electrification Agency.

“We as lawmakers are elected to hold public officers accountable in line with Sections 88 and 89 of the 1999 Constitution as amended,”

“Public officers must account for their stewardship, particularly given the substantial grants and public funds managed by the agency,” he said.

Responding on behalf of the agency, the Executive Director, Corporate Services, Mr Gboyega Ayoade, tendered an unreserved apology and appealed for more time, insisting that the Managing Director’s absence was neither deliberate nor intended to disrespect the committee.
‎
Meanwhile, the National President of the Licensed Electrical Contractors Association of Nigeria (LECAN), Chief Ofodum Vitus Ikenna, urged the committee to mandate the use of certified electrical professionals in renewable energy projects nationwide.

Chief Ikenna warned that domiciling green energy projects with entities lacking technical capacity could result in substandard installations, safety hazards, and loss of public funds.

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