Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo of Kogi State has congratulated the Controller General of the Federal Fire Service, CG Samuel Olumode, on his appointment, describing the development as a proud moment for the state and a recognition of Olumode’s dedication and integrity in national service.
The governor made the remarks on Friday during an official homecoming reception held in Kabba, headquarters of Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area, in honour of the new fire service chief.
Represented at the event by his deputy, Comrade Joel Salifu, Ododo commended the Bunu Progressive Forum for organising the ceremony, saying the gathering reflected the unity and collective pride of the people.
He described Olumode’s emergence as the fifth Controller General of the Federal Fire Service as inspiring and a strong signal of hope to young people across Kogi State.
According to the governor, the appointment underscores the growing national recognition of capable individuals from the state.
Governor Ododo also expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for appointing what he described as “a worthy son of Kogi State” to the top leadership position of the fire service, noting that the decision demonstrates inclusive leadership and a commitment to merit.
While reiterating his administration’s zero tolerance for insecurity, the governor urged residents of the state to continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible information, stressing that the safety of lives and property remains a major priority of his government.
He further charged the new Controller General to remember the youths of Kogi State by supporting initiatives that would expand opportunities for them.
Governor Ododo also urged Olumode to use his office to advocate for the establishment and strengthening of Federal Fire Service stations across the state, saying such infrastructure would enhance emergency response and safeguard lives and property.
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to inclusive development across all parts of the state and wished the fire service chief a successful and impactful tenure.
Earlier in their separate remarks, the National Deputy Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Hon. Duro Meseko, and the National President of the Bunu Development Association, Pastor Johnson Kolawale, thanked God and President Tinubu for appointing an Okun son to the exalted position.
They noted that the gesture would remain memorable to the Okun people and expressed confidence that Olumode would justify the confidence reposed in him by delivering on his responsibilities to the nation.
Responding, the Controller General, Olumode, expressed gratitude to his people for the honour accorded him, assuring them that he would not disappoint.
He disclosed that approval had already been granted by his office for the establishment of a Federal Fire Service station in Kabba and pledged to do more to strengthen fire service infrastructure in the state.
The Deputy Governor was accompanied to the event by the Deputy Speaker of the Kogi State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Comfort Nwuchiola Egwaba; the Deputy Majority Leader of the Assembly, Hon. Ahmodu Seidu; APC chieftain in Idah Local Government Area, Alhaji Friday Idachaba; Executive Director of the Kogi Oil Producing Area Development Commission, Engr. Ndah Muhammed; APC chieftain from Ofu Local Government Area, Hon. Gambo Haruna, Special Adviser to the governor on Environment, Hon. Yakubu Ibrahim Aboh, Omala House of Assembly aspirant, Hon. Matthew Ochada, among other government officials.
The ceremony attracted community leaders, political stakeholders and residents from across the Okun axis, who gathered in Kabba to celebrate the appointment of the new fire service chief.
