President Bola Tinubu has made a significant announcement during the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship campaign in Lokoja, Kogi State, declaring that the nearly completed Ajaokuta Steel Complex could provide employment for up to 500,000 Nigerians once it is designated as a free trade zone.
Representing the president at the campaign event, Vice-President Kashim Shettima emphasized the administration’s commitment to harnessing the full potential of the Ajaokuta Steel Complex upon its completion.
This strategic move is expected to not only bolster Nigeria’s foreign direct investment but also create a favourable business environment for various sectors to flourish.
Shettima highlighted President Tinubu’s dedication to infrastructure development, mentioning ongoing projects such as the construction of the River Niger, Kabba-Lokoja, and Abuja-Lokoja roads.
He also praised Tinubu as a visionary leader focused on restructuring and revitalizing the Nigerian economy.
Shettima urged Kogi citizens to unite behind the APC candidate, Ahmed Usman Ododo, in the upcoming November 11 governorship election, emphasising that their welfare would remain a top priority.
He also disclosed plans to advance the Itakpe crop processing project, enhance job opportunities, and promote affordable education under the current government.
Shettima mentioned President Tinubu’s approval for the rehabilitation of the Obajana-Okene road in Kogi State, highlighting the commitment to the state’s development.
Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for participating in the campaign launch, emphasizing the need for consolidation to drive the state forward. Bello highlighted his administration’s achievements in areas like security, education, and health, urging voters to support the APC candidate.
APC National Chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, echoed the sentiment that Kogi cannot afford to switch power away from the ruling party due to Governor Bello’s track record of good governance.
Chairman of the APC Campaign Council for Kogi State, Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State, urged citizens to prepare for the election by ensuring their voter cards are in order and turning out in large numbers to support the APC candidate.
Ahmed Ododo, the APC governorship candidate for Kogi State, pledged to continue the development agenda set by Governor Yahaya Bello.
He promised to focus on security, education, agriculture, and healthcare, with a commitment to women’s empowerment.
Before the campaign event, Vice President Shettima engaged with traditional rulers and stakeholders in Kogi State, soliciting support for the APC candidate in the upcoming election.
In response, HRH Mathew Ipaluwa, the President of the Kogi State Traditional Council and the Attah of Igala, expressed support for President Bola Tinubu and commended Governor Bello’s efforts in addressing security challenges in the state.
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