By joshua CNNPF Honours Eegoja Gas CEO Paul Ekele as Patron for Economic Empowerment in Kogi
The Christian Northern Nigeria Progressive Forum has honoured Chief Paul Unekwu Ekele, the Centeli of Ganaja and Chief Executive Officer of Eegoja Gas Limited, with the title of Patron of Economic Empowerment in recognition of his contributions to job creation, small business growth, and safe energy access across Kogi State.
The decoration was presented today in Lokoja by the National Coordinator of CNNPF and Senior Special Assistant to the Kogi State Governor on Religious Matters, Hon. Gabriel Ibrahim Itodo.
The forum said the award celebrates individuals whose enterprise directly improves lives and strengthens community development.
According to CNNPF, Ekele’s gas distribution business has become a source of direct employment for Kogi youths working as loaders, drivers, marketers and technicians, while also powering hundreds of micro-enterprises such as food vendors, restaurants, bakeries and suya spots. The forum noted that by expanding access to liquefied petroleum gas in Lokoja, Okene, Idah and other parts of the state, Eegoja Gas is helping households move away from firewood and charcoal, thereby reducing indoor air pollution and protecting women and children from respiratory illnesses.
His advocacy on safe cylinder handling was also cited as a key effort in reducing the risk of gas explosions in communities.
The forum further highlighted that Ekele’s work aligns with CNNPF’s values of community service and stability, as access to clean cooking energy reduces pressure on forests and helps ease land-related conflicts between farmers and herders in Kogi. It added that his mentorship of young technicians and marketers reflects a commitment to building skills and creating opportunities beyond gas sales.
In presenting the honour, CNNPF described Chief Ekele as a silent partner in building healthy families and small businesses across Kogi’s twenty-one local government areas and a bridge between enterprise and community development. The title Patron of Economic Empowerment was conferred on him for consistently powering Kogi homes, creating jobs for young people, and contributing to the state’s internally generated revenue through responsible and affordable LPG distribution.