By Correspondent in Lokoja.
The Kogi State Government has released its counterpart funding for the Kogi State Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (KG-RAAMP), reaffirming Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo’s commitment to rural development and agricultural transformation.
This is contained in a statement signed by RAAMP Communication Officer, Mr Ndamodu Ali in Lokoja and a copy available to The Reporters on Tuesday.
Announcing the development during a media briefing, the State Project Coordinator, Engineer Sheidu Obansa Adamu, commended Governor Ododo for his continued support and strategic vision aimed at improving rural livelihoods and economic opportunities.
“The release of this fund underscores Governor Ododo’s rural-focused agenda and deep understanding of the critical role RAAMP plays in enhancing agricultural productivity, market access, and infrastructure in underserved communities,” Obansa said.
He noted that the release has reinvigorated the project implementation team, boosting morale and commitment toward delivering timely and impactful results.
Obansa also acknowledged the key roles played by top government officials in facilitating the funding release, including the Commissioner for Energy and Rural Development, Engr. Abdulmutalib Muhammad; the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Alhaji Ali Bello; the Commissioner for Finance, Budget and Economic Planning, Asiwaju Asiru Idris; and the State Accountant General, Hajiya Dr. Habibat Tijani Onumoko.
As part of ongoing efforts, Obansa revealed that contracts have been signed for the upgrade of key rural markets across the three senatorial districts: AKU Market in Adavi LGA, Ajaka Market in Igalamela-Odolu, and Aiyegunle Market in Kabba-Bunu.
He described these interventions as evidence of the government’s resolve to ensure equitable distribution of development projects across the state.
Obansa further disclosed that road construction projects aligned with RAAMP’s objectives are currently underway in multiple localities, aimed at improving access to markets and reducing post-harvest losses.
He also briefed staff on the recent extension of RAAMP’s lifespan to 2027, granted by donor partners, following a joint appeal by State Project Management Committee (SPMC) chairmen from participating states.
He described the extension as both a “golden opportunity” and a call for renewed commitment, urging staff to uphold excellence, discipline, and team spirit.
“The success of RAAMP depends on collective responsibility. We must guard against laxity, sabotage, and internal conflict,” he warned.
During the event, staff were introduced to the Acting Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Energy and Rural Development, Mr. Daniel Onimisi.
In his remarks, Onimisi urged staff to maintain professionalism, punctuality, and collaboration, pledging to sustain the legacy of his predecessor and deepen ministry support for RAAMP’s objectives.
Staff members warmly welcomed the new permanent secretary, expressing their readiness to redouble efforts toward achieving the project’s goals.
Our correspondent reports that the Kogi State Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (KG‑RAAMP) is a World Bank‑ and French Development Agency,supporting initiative led by the Federal Ministry of Agriculture & Rural Development in partnership with Kogi State.
Its core goal is to improve rural livelihoods by enhancing both road access and the agricultural value chain among others.
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
