2027: Ododo Will Lead Kogi To Deliver Resounding Victory For Tinubu — Fanwo

Hon. Kingsley Femi Fanwo is the Kogi State Commissioner for Information and Communications. In this interview with JOY ANIGBOGU, the All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain speaks on the economic and political reforms of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the strengthening of sub-national governments, and the renewed push to resuscitate the Ajaokuta Steel Company. He also highlights the approval of a Free Trade Zone in Ajaokuta, the impact of sustained TETFund interventions on higher institutions in Kogi State, the achievements of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, which he says have galvanized the people of the state to rally behind the ruling party and deliver massive support for Tinubu in the 2027 general elections, among others. Excerpts: 

 YouhaveconsistentlystatedthatKogiStatewill deliver resoundingly for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 general elections. What gives you such strong confidence? 

My confidence is anchored on governance, performance, and alignment of vision. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has demonstrated uncommon courage by taking tough but necessary decisions to stabilize Nigeria’s economy and polity. These reforms are not cosmetic; they are structural and transformative. In Kogi State, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has effectively domesticated this national vision through people-oriented governance. When citizens see leadership working at both the federal and state levels, trust deepens, and political support naturally follows. 

Many Nigerians initially expressed concerns about some of the President’s economic reforms. How do you assess their impact today? 

Reform is never painless, especially when it addresses decades of economic distortions and self-deceit. However, President Tinubu’s policies reflect the core essence of his politics which has to do with boldness, foresight, and sustainability. He chose long-term national interest over short-term political comfort. Today, we’re seeing improved fiscal discipline, renewed investor confidence, and a clearer economic direction. Political stability has also been strengthened, which is critical for growth. 

What would you say is unique about President Tinubu’s approach to governance? 

The President believes in building systems and institutions rather than relying on temporary solutions. His approach is strategic and forward-looking. He understands that true leadership sometimes requires making difficult decisions today in order to secure a better tomorrow. That philosophy has defined his political journey and is now shaping national governance. 

But critics are of the opinion that the President is killing the opposition. If he is that confident, why is he not leaving the opposition to thrive? 

All those speculations are for the political convenience of weak opposition leaders. From 1999 to 2015, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was an opposition leader. He was in the Alliance for Democracy (AD) and with that party, he held the South West. He solidified his base and the party also became the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN). ACN later went into an alliance with other opposition parties to defeat an incumbent President in 2015. So you need to give Mr. President his flowers. As an opposition leader, he was consistent, unrelenting and strategic. Do we have the same today? The President organised a vibrant and viable opposition for 16 years. It’s not the responsibility of Mr. President to helps organise the opposition against himself. He is doing a great job for Nigerians and the people will give him a resounding victory in 2027. 

How has the Tinubu administration strengthened sub-national governments? 

This administration recognises that Nigeria cannot develop from the centre alone. States must be empowered to drive development based on their comparative advantages. Through policy direction and fiscal reforms, states now have more room to plan, innovate, and deliver. This has deepened cooperative federalism and enabled governors to pursue impactful development agendas. 

Turning to Kogi State, how would you describe Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo’s leadership so far? 

Governor Ododo’s leadership has been steady, inclusive, and people-centered. He came into office with a clear understanding of Kogi’s challenges and opportunities. His focus has been on unity, continuity, and results. He listens, consults widely, and governs with humility. This has strengthened public confidence in government. 

What are some of the key achievements of Governor Ododo that resonate most with the people? 

One major achievement is the consolidation of peace and security across the state. His administration has strengthened collaboration with security agencies and community structures to ensure stability. Workers’ welfare has also received priority attention, with prompt payment of salaries and renewed efforts to address pension obligations. Promotion of civil servants have now been cash-backed, covering arrears as far as 2007. These actions directly affect families and improve confidence in governance. 

How has the Ododo administration addressed infrastructure development? 

Infrastructure is central to the governor’s agenda. Road construction and rehabilitation projects are ongoing across the three senatorial districts, improving connectivity between rural and urban areas. These roads facilitate trade, enhance access to healthcare and education, and stimulate local economies. Communities that were once isolated are now better integrated into the state’s development framework. 

Agriculture remains a major strength of Kogi State. What has been done in this sector? 

Governor Ododo understands the strategic importance of agriculture. His administration has supported farmers through improved access to inputs, extension services, and rural infrastructure. This has boosted productivity, enhanced food security, and empowered rural communities. It also aligns with President Tinubu’s national agenda of economic diversification and food sufficiency. Through ACReSAL, Kogi farmers have become a powerful force turning the state to the food hub of Nigeria. We are not making a noise about it, but I make bold to say that no state is ahead of Kogi State today when it comes to food production. Our massive production has crashed food inflation. This is not about propaganda but what the market is saying. 

The Ajaokuta Steel Company has been a long-standing national issue. How do you view the renewed focus on it? 

The renewed push to resuscitate Ajaokuta Steel Company is historic. Steel is the backbone of industrialization, and reviving Ajaokuta will open Nigeria to global steel competitiveness. It will create thousands of jobs, stimulate manufacturing, and reposition Nigeria as an industrial player. For the people of Kogi State, it represents long-awaited economic justice and opportunity. For what Mr. President is doing on Ajaokuta Steel Company, he will continue to enjoy the support of the great people of Kogi State. 

What is the significance of the approved Free Trade Zone in Ajaokuta? 

The Free Trade Zone is a strategic complement to the revival of Ajaokuta Steel. It will attract investors, promote manufacturing, and transform Kogi State into a major industrial and commercial hub. This initiative will boost internally generated revenue and provide employment opportunities for youths, reinforcing the state’s role in national economic growth. It will become the commercial nerve centre of Nigeria. The governor is already working so hard to ensure smooth execution of the project and we are eternally grateful to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving the Ajaokuta Free Trade Zone. 

The State is operating three state-owned Universities. How have higher institutions in Kogi State benefited from the Tinubu administration?

The steady funding of TETFund under President Tinubu has significantly benefited tertiary institutions in Kogi State. These interventions support infrastructure development, research, staff training, and improved learning environments. Governor Ododo has complemented these efforts by ensuring stability in state-owned institutions. Education remains a critical pillar of sustainable development. 

Youths and women are key stakeholders in governance. How has the Ododo administration engaged them? 

Youths and women are central to Governor Ododo’s vision. The administration promotes inclusion through appointments, empowerment programmes, skills acquisition initiatives, and support for entrepreneurship. When people see themselves represented and empowered, they develop a sense of ownership and responsibility toward governance. It is also worthy of note that the wife of the governor, Hajia Sefinat Ahmed Ododo, supported by the nation’s First Lady, Her Excellency Senator Oluremi Tinubu, through the Renewed Hope Initiative is doing a lot to deepen the dividends of good governance to every home in the State. 

How does Governor Ododo’s performance translate into support for President Tinubu? 

Governance influences politics. When a governor delivers tangible results, the people naturally extend their trust to the party and its leadership at the centre. Governor Ododo has represented the APC and President Tinubu well through effective governance. The synergy between the state and federal governments reinforces public confidence. 

How important is party unity in achieving your projected outcome in 2027? 

Party unity is critical. Under Governor Ododo, the APC in Kogi State is united, inclusive, and focused. Stakeholders are carried along, reconciliation is prioritised, and collective ownership of the party is encouraged. A united party backed by performance is a strong electoral force. Governor Ododo is naturally a peaceful person who believes in consensus building. He believes in consultation and carrying everyone along. The party is united in Kogi State and Governor Ododo is piloting it well. 

Some critics argue that elections are driven more by sentiment than performance. How do you see that? 

Sentiment may influence temporary reactions, but performance shapes long-term loyalty. Nigerians are discerning. They recognise courage, sincerity, and results. As the benefits of the current reforms become clearer, performance will ultimately outweigh sentiment. 

As 2027 approaches, what message do you have for the people of Kogi State? 

My message is one of hope, continuity, and collective progress. The foundations being laid today are for a stronger future. With President Bola Ahmed Tinubu providing visionary leadership at the centre and Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo delivering purposeful governance in Kogi State, the future is bright. 

In conclusion, why are you convinced that Kogi State will deliver resoundingly for President Tinubu in 2027? 

Because the people can see, feel, and measure governance. From security and infrastructure to education, agriculture, and industrial prospects, the impact is real. Governor Ododo has earned the confidence of the people, and that confidence naturally extends to President Tinubu. Kogi State will speak loudly in 2027 in support of continuity, stability and progress.

Ardo  Zubairu 

National Secretary 

TInubu Re- Election Project 2027 . Office Phones: 

08033305195

08098885195

07033454053

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