By: Goodluck E. Adubazi, Abuja.

Kogi State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Hajia Fatimah Momoh, has reaffirmed the commitment of Governor Usman Ododo’s administration to the development of tourism infrastructure, describing the government as “futuristic, focused and result-oriented.”

Speaking to journalists at the 2025 Destination Nigeria Governors’ Tourism Conference held on Friday, November 14, 2025, at Nicon Luxury Hotel, Abuja, Fatima said the governor’s development agenda aligns squarely with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s drive for quality leadership and infrastructure-led growth.

According to her, Kogi State is endowed with rich natural and historical assets that, if fully harnessed, can transform the state’s economy and by extention Nigeria.

“Tourism is more than oil. With the abundance of natural resources God has blessed us with, Kogi has no business being poor,” she said.

The Commissioner highlighted key historical landmarks in the state, including the first school in Northern Nigeria, the first bank in the North, the first prison, and the confluence of Rivers Niger and Benue—all located in Kogi.

“We have an incredible cultural heritage across the Ebira, Okun and Igala communities. There is so much to develop, and we have not even scratched the surface,” she added.

Momoh noted that the Ododo administration has already begun laying the foundation for tourism growth, especially through aggressive road development to improve access to cultural and tourism sites.

“Governor Ododo is moving in the same direction as Mr President. He understands that road network is the first step toward unlocking tourism potential, and he has started strongly. With improved connectivity, tourism in Kogi will blossom,” she said.

The Commissioner further urged Kogi residents to look inward and appreciate the value of the state’s cultural and natural endowments.

“My call is for us as Kogites to embrace what God has given to us. We have a lot to offer the world, and people have a lot to learn from us,” she said.