In a remarkable demonstration of public-private partnership and community-driven development, Kogi State Governor Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo and Dr. Abdullahi Mustapha, Director-General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria and founder of the DAM Foundation, officially commissioned a suite of infrastructure and empowerment initiatives in Kogi Central. The event, held at Kahal Hall, Inoziomi in Adavi Local Government Area, has been hailed as a major milestone in advancing education, local enterprise, and community wellbeing across the region.
Landmark Projects Unveiled
At the heart of the inauguration were two transformative structures designed to uplift communities and support long-term development:
Modern Student Hostel in Eika Adagu, Okehi LGA
Governor Ododo officially opened a modern hostel facility aimed at providing safe, dignified accommodation for students and young learners. This facility is expected to reduce barriers to education, particularly for those traveling from remote villages for schooling.
DAM Civic Centre at Ebegogo, Adavi LGA
The newly inaugurated DAM Civic Centre will serve as a vibrant hub for sports, civic engagement, cultural activities, and community cooperation. The centre was designed with the goal of fostering unity, encouraging local talent development, and creating a space for residents to engage in healthy, productive activities.
Together, these projects reflect a broad vision of community transformation — addressing practical needs while nurturing social cohesion and human potential.
Empowering Communities Through Inclusive Support
Beyond bricks and mortar, the DAM Foundation’s initiative extended into a robust empowerment programme tailored to the real needs of local residents. Beneficiaries received a wide array of materials and support packages aimed at lifting livelihoods and stimulating economic activity:
- Food staples such as bags of rice and beans
- Tools and equipment including sewing machines, artisan tools for welders and bricklayers
- Solar technology, with solar panels and solar-powered television sets
- Written learning materials and laptops for students
- Start-up funds and support for widows, motorcycle riders, and market women
- Solar streetlights to enhance community safety and infrastructure
The distribution of these items underscores a commitment to economic inclusion and productive engagement, especially for youths and small business owners seeking to build sustainable livelihoods.
Leadership Voices: A Shared Vision for Growth
During the ceremony, Governor Ododo expressed deep appreciation for Dr. Mustapha’s leadership and foresight, describing the DAM Foundation’s projects as a powerful demonstration of generosity, compassion, and real concern for ordinary citizens. He urged other stakeholders — corporate bodies, philanthropists, and private citizens — to harness their capacities in support of people-centred development efforts that improve living standards.
In his address, Dr. Abdullahi Mustapha emphasized that the initiatives go well beyond physical infrastructure. He articulated that the projects are investments in hope, opportunity, and long-term community resilience, designed to empower residents with the tools, skills, and support needed to thrive.
Together, the leaders projected a future where education, empowerment, and community cohesion are the cornerstones of Kogi Central’s growth trajectory.
