The Traffic

Kogi State Clears N98.8 Billion Debt in 15 Months

By Achimi Muktar

In a stunning turnaround that’s defying expectations and critics alike, the Kogi State Government has wiped out a staggering N98.8 billion debt — all within the first 15 months of Governor Usman Ododo’s administration.

At a press briefing held after the State Executive Council meeting in Lokoja, Ashiwaju Ashiru Idris, the State Commissioner for Finance and Economic Planning, delivered the bombshell: “We have cleared a combined debt of N98.8 billion, including legacy debts from two previous administrations.”

Among the cleared debts are:

N8 billion in bonds inherited from the Idris Wada government

N50.8 billion salary bailout debt

A N10 billion infrastructure loan linked to the Excess Crude Account (ECA)

Two separate N15 billion infrastructure loans from Zenith Bank and UBA Plc

According to Idris, this “landmark achievement” is a direct result of Governor Ododo’s firm grip on fiscal discipline and strategic economic planning. “It’s a new dawn for Kogi,” he declared, noting that the state’s ability to settle such a large debt in such a short time proves that financial recovery is not only possible — it’s happening.

One of the administration’s secret weapons? A revitalized Kogi State Inland Revenue Generation Agency, which has significantly increased the state’s internally generated revenue (IGR). “The mandate was clear: ramp up revenue collection, plug leakages, and ensure sustainability,” Idris said.

But Governor Ododo’s financial wins don’t end with debt repayment.

In a separate announcement, Commissioner for Information Kingsley Fanwo highlighted new development projects, including:

Perimeter fencing around the Confluence State University of Science and Technology (CUSTECH), Osara — a direct response to recent security concerns.

The creation of a climate change agency tasked with tackling Kogi’s growing environmental threats.

Fanwo praised Ododo’s leadership, describing his governance as “a model for effective fiscal responsibility and forward-thinking.”

As the state steps into what appears to be a new era of stability and growth, Kogi’s swift move from indebtedness to independence is sparking conversations nationwide. And if the numbers are anything to go by, it looks like Governor Ododo is just getting started.