Ododo Inaugurates Koccima Board of Governors, Tasks Chamber On Partnership To Reposition Kogi For Business, Investment
…. Says Airport, Markets, Security Underscore Administration’s Drive To Create Enabling Environment For Private Sector
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has inaugurated the Board of Governors of the Kogi Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (KOCCIMA), with a charge to the Chamber to deepen its partnership with the State Government in repositioning Kogi State as a preferred destination for business and investment.
The inauguration was held on Friday, 6th November, 2026, at the Banquet Hall of the Government House, Lokoja.
Governor Ododo who was represented by the Secretary to Government of the State, Dr. Folashade Arike Ayoade, said his administration is resolved to create an enabling environment for the private sector to thrive, noting that no economy can grow without a vibrant and confident business community.
He said the ongoing construction of an international airport, modern markets and other critical infrastructure underscores his administration’s commitment to attracting investment and unlocking the economic potential of the state.
According to the Governor, Kogi’s strategic location as the gateway between the North and South, its rich natural resources, solid minerals and agricultural potential, place it in a unique position to become a hub for trade, industry and agro-processing.
He assured investors and business operators of the security of lives and property, stressing that his administration remains resolved to explore the State’s potential, natural resources and location for the benefit of the people.
“Kogi is open for business. We are building the infrastructure, securing the environment and creating the policies that will make investors feel at home. We want KOCCIMA to be a strong partner in this journey,” the Governor said.
Earlier in his welcome address, the President of KOCCIMA, Dr. Demiloye Akerejola, represented by the Deputy President 1, Comr. Habuh Rajan Suleiman, welcomed Governor Ododo and his entourage to the historic event and congratulated members of the newly inaugurated Board of Governors.
He said the appointment of the members was based on self-recognition and merit, as a result of their enviable records of service to Kogi State.
“The KOCCIMA Board of Governors occupies an enviable position in the hierarchy of the Chamber family. It has the responsibility of liaising with state authorities to provide strategic policy direction for private sector-friendly policies, expanding the Chamber’s membership base and driving initiatives that will stimulate industrialisation, job creation and wealth generation in the State,” he said.
Akerejola described the Board as made up of the crème de la crème of Kogi society, drawn from most respected Royal Fathers, distinguished private sector operators and Captains of Industry, respected industrialists and distinguished public sector operators.
He disclosed that the Board, in the course of its activities, will be meeting with the Governor to discuss modalities for expanding the Chamber’s horizon in order to attract investors for infrastructural development to stimulate industrialisation, job creation and wealth generation.
“As we inaugurate this respected arm of the Chamber, we want to pledge our loyalty to the Board and to the Kogi State Government, promising to do whatever it will take to attract genuine investors to boost the state economy,” he added.
Speaking on behalf of the Board of Governors, Dr. Umar Shaibu Oricha, Director General, Government House Administration, assured that the Board will bring its ideas and experience to bear in meeting the objectives of KOCCIMA.
Dr. Oricha said the calibre of members on the Board reflects the seriousness attached to repositioning the Chamber, and pledged that the Board would work closely with the State Government and the private sector to deliver on its mandate.
Similarly, the Kogi State Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Hon. Muhammed Muktar Shuaibu, assured of an enabling environment that would be created by the Ministry in ensuring a seamless working environment for the Board of Governors.
Hon. Shuaibu said the Ministry would continue to provide the policy support, coordination and institutional backing needed for the Board to function effectively and for businesses in the State to thrive.
Stakeholders at the event described the inauguration as a new chapter for organised private sector engagement in Kogi State, with the Board expected to serve as a bridge between government and business, advocate for investor-friendly policies, and drive initiatives that will create jobs and wealth for the people.
The inauguration was attended by top government officials, traditional rulers, captains of industry, members of the business community and other dignitaries.
With the Board now in place, expectations are high that KOCCIMA will play a more assertive role in shaping Kogi’s economic future, from attracting genuine investors to supporting small and medium enterprises across the 21 local government areas of the State.
