This guide provides a complete list of Kogi State’s governors, both military and civilian, from its creation in 1991 to today.
You will learn about who has governed the state and when with their political affiliations. We’ll also look at the role of the first military administrator and stress the current governor’s goals for Kogi’s future.
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Complete List Of Past And Current Governors Of Kogi State
Name | Began Tenure | Ended Tenure | Party |
|---|---|---|---|
Danladi Mohammed Zakari | 28 August 1991 | January 1992 | Military |
Abubakar Audu | January 1992 | November 1993 | NRC |
Colonel Paul Omeruo | 9 December 1993 | 22 August 1996 | Military |
Colonel Bzigu Afakirya | 22 August 1996 | August 1998 | Military |
Augustine Aniebo | August 1998 | May 1999 | Military |
Abubakar Audu | 29 May 1999 | 29 May 2003 | APP; ANPP |
Ibrahim Idris | 29 May 2003 | 6 February 2008 | PDP |
Clarence Olafemi | 6 February 2008 | 5 April 2008 | PDP |
Ibrahim Idris | 5 April 2008 | 26 January 2012 | PDP |
Idris Wada | 27 January 2012 | 27 January 2016 | PDP |
Yahaya Bello | 27 January 2016 | 27 January 2024 | APC |
Usman Ododo | 27 January 2024 | Incumbent | APC |
Who Was The First Military Governor Of Kogi State?
Brigadier General Danladi Mohammed Zakari was the first Military Administrator of Kogi State, Nigeria, when it was created in August 1991.
Kogi State was formed from parts of Benue and Kwara states during the military regime of General Ibrahim Babangida.
Zakari served in this role from August 1991 to January 1992. During his time as the military administrator, Zakari faced the challenging task of establishing the administrative structure of the newly created state.
He had to start from scratch, setting up ministries such as Justice, Works, Health, Agriculture, Education, and Finance.
Also, he set up agencies like the Local Government Services Commission, the Judiciary, and the Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board.
Zakari also initiated efforts to kickstart economic development in Kogi State. He formed a committee chaired by the Ohinoyi of Ebiraland to create a blueprint for the state’s economic growth.
Despite these efforts, little progress was made in realizing the economic development plan by his successors. On December 16, 1991, Zakari established the Kogi Agricultural Development Project.
This project aimed to support farmers by providing input subsidies and developing agricultural infrastructure. It was a continuation of similar programs from Benue and Kwara states.
Zakari’s tenure as the first military governor of Kogi State laid the foundation for governance and development in the region.
His initiatives in establishing administrative structures and kickstarting economic projects set the stage for future progress and growth in the state.
READ ALSO: List Of Governors Of Ogun State (1976-Present)
Who Is The Current Governor Of Kogi State?
The current governor of Kogi State, Nigeria, is Ahmed Usman Ododo. Born on February 7, 1982, in Okene, Kwara State (which is now part of Kogi State), Ododo has a background in accounting and politics.
He studied Accounting at Ahmadu Bello University in Zaria and obtained his PhD from the University of Lagos. Ododo is a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), one of Nigeria’s political parties.
However, he assumed office on January 27, 2024, succeeding Yahaya Bello. But before he became the governor, Ododo served as the auditor-general for local governments in Kogi State.
In this role, he was responsible for overseeing the financial audit of local government councils in the state. His experience in financial management and accountability prepared him for the responsibilities of leading the state.
Ododo’s career in politics began when he was appointed as the financial secretary for local government by Governor Yahaya Bello.
His dedication to public service and his commitment to improving governance in Kogi State earned him the trust and support of the people.
According to him, he’s focused on addressing the different challenges facing Kogi State, including infrastructure development, healthcare, education, and economic growth.
He aims to build on the progress made by previous administrations and implement policies that will benefit all citizens of the state.
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