Kogi has finally joined the league of oil-producing states in Nigeria as it received the first derivation allocation from the Federation Account.

Information commissioner Kingsley Fanwo disclosed this shortly after the state’s executive council meeting at Government House, Kogi.

Mr Fanwo said Governor Yahaya Bello announced the news during the meeting.

“It’s on record that this administration has recorded many giant strides in various sectors covering the thematic areas of our governor’s ‘New Direction Blueprint’. “This new breakthrough in the “derivation allocation will no doubt make us do more for our people,” stated the commissioner.

He added, “On breaking the news, our governor said he was so elated to announce to the good people of Kogi state that the administration has received our first derivation allocation as an oil-producing state. This announcement is in line with the administration’s commitment to transparency and accountability, for which we have received many awards.”

Mr Fanwo stated that the Kogi government worked hard to make “this history.” 

“But we wouldn’t have achieved it without the support of our people, who stood resolutely with us to make this see the light of day. We also wish to express our gratitude to President Muhammadu Buhari for his leadership roles as well as the RMAFC for making this a reality,” added the commissioner.

While noting that the allocation came at a time the Kogi government was building legacy projects across the state, the governor pledged to ensure “judicious use of the derivation allocation.”

“Our governor has once again proved that he is a goal-getter with the tenacious manner he defended the interest of the state to be listed as an Oil Producing State,” the commissioner said. 

(NAN)