The Kogi State government has reaffirmed the critical role of women in promoting peace, unity, and security at the grassroots level, describing them as “the backbone of peace and torchbearers of renewed hope” in the society.
The State Security Adviser to the Kogi State Government, Commander Duro Jerry Omodara (Rtd), stated this in Lokoja, the state capital, at a one-day workshop organised by the Office of the State Security Adviser in collaboration with the Kogi Women Empowerment Coalition (KWEC), with the theme “Building Trust for a Renewed Hope.”
He emphasised that true security goes beyond efforts of armed personnel, noting that “peace begins within homes and communities through the vigilance and moral influence of women.”
Omodara said; “When we talk about security, people often think it is the job of soldiers or the police.
“But true security begins with the mothers who guide their children, the wives who counsel their husbands, and the women who speak up when something is not right in their communities.”
He underscored that the workshop was part of the state’s broader agenda to strengthen trust between government, security agencies, and communities, especially through women-led initiatives.
According to him, “the Building Trust for a Renewed Hope” initiative is anchored on inclusive partnership, ensuring that women are not just beneficiaries of government programmes but active contributors to community stability.
“When communities trust security agencies, crimes are prevented. When citizens trust government policies, peace is sustained. And when women trust their own abilities and leadership, society moves forward,” he stressed.
Omodara commended Governor Ahmed Ododo for translating the national vision of President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda into practical, people-centered governance in Kogi State.
He also extolled the First Lady, Hajia Sefinat Ododo, for her impactful campaigns on gender-based violence, youth empowerment, and drug abuse prevention, describing her as “a symbol of compassion and visionary leadership.”
“Through Her Excellency’s compassion and His Excellency’s direction, Kogi women now know that their voices matter, their safety is a priority, and their contribution to governance is valued,” Omodara said.
The Kogi State Security Adviser, maintained that the alignment between the Ododo administration and President Tinubu’s national vision has restored public confidence in leadership and strengthened the bridge between government and the people.
In a firm message to detractors, Omodara cautioned individuals and groups attempting to sow discord or exploit insecurity for political gain.
“It is disheartening that some individuals are already planting seeds of division and forming unholy alliances to destabilise our peace. I must categorically warn those trying to use insecurity to destabilise us to desist henceforth,” he warned.
Omodara reaffirmed that the political direction of Kogi State remains strong and united under the leadership of Governor Ododo and President Tinubu, assuring that the people are now more informed and politically aware across all senatorial districts.
“Our people can no longer be taken for granted. The current political arrangement in Kogi State has direction, and it will be followed when the time comes,” he said, calling for unity especially among the Okun people of Kogi West.
Omodara charged participants to take lessons from the workshop back to their homes and communities, to continue sensitising young people against drug abuse, violence, and divisive tendencies.
“You are the backbone of peace. You are the bridge through which trust is built. Let us leave here more determined to build a Kogi State that is peaceful, united, and full of renewed hope,” he added.
The workshop featured interactive sessions with security experts, gender advocates, and community leaders, aimed at deepening collaboration between government agencies and women groups for inclusive security and sustainable development in Kogi State.
Lateefah Ibrahim