By joshua “GOV. ODODO HAS GIVEN US A PLATFORM TO EXCEL” — ASIRU IDRIS AT OPENING OF GEGU-BEKI CENTRAL MOSQUE
The newly completed Gegu-Beki Central Mosque was commissioned on Friday in an atmosphere of faith and unity, with stakeholders describing it as a direct product of the enabling environment created by the administration of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo.
The Honourable Commissioner for Finance, Budget and Economic Planning, Hon. Chief Mukadam Asiwaju Asiru Idris, FCA, joined His Excellency, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, FCA*, and other dignitaries at the official opening of the mosque in Gegu-Beki, Kogi Local Government Area.
The ceremony brought together members of the Kogi State Executive Council, traditional rulers, community leaders, religious scholars and members of the Muslim community in what was described as a convergence of the state’s political, traditional and religious leadership.
Speaking at the event, Chief Asiwaju Asiru Idris described the completion of the mosque as a commendable achievement and a worthy investment in the spiritual and social development of the community. He noted that building a mosque goes beyond erecting a structure, stressing that it establishes a lasting centre for worship, learning, moral instruction, community interaction and peaceful coexistence.
According to him, investments made in the service of Allah and humanity remain among the most enduring legacies a community can leave behind. He therefore urged Muslim faithful in Gegu-Beki and neighboring communities to maximize the opportunities provided by the mosque by making it a hub for spiritual growth, knowledge, unity and positive transformation.
The Commissioner also used the occasion to commend Governor Ododo for providing a governance platform that encourages collaboration between government, traditional institutions and religious bodies.
“Gov. Ododo has given us a platform to excel,” Chief Asiru Idris said, adding that the administration’s commitment to inclusive development has created room for projects like the Gegu-Beki Central Mosque to thrive.
In demonstration of support for the landmark project, the Commissioner announced a ₦5 million donation on behalf of Commissioners in the Kogi State Executive Council towards the development and sustainability of the mosque. He also made an additional personal donation on behalf of himself and his family, a gesture that drew commendation from organizers and community members.
The event was marked by prayers, goodwill messages and reflections on faith, unity and collective responsibility. Leaders at the gathering noted that the new mosque is expected to serve as a major center of worship and spiritual guidance, while also providing a platform for learning, moral development and community engagement for Gegu-Beki and adjoining communities.
The ceremony further reflected the Ododo administration’s commitment to working closely with religious, traditional, political and community stakeholders to advance peace and development across Kogi State.
The event concluded with special prayers for the continued peace, progress and prosperity of Gegu-Beki, Kogi State and Nigeria, and for Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo and all individuals who contributed to the successful completion of the mosque.