The First Lady of Kogi State, Hajia Sefinat Usman Ododo, has called for the deliberate promotion of local content in the production, delivery, and consumption of goods and services across Nigeria.
This was contained in a press statement signed by Media Office of the First Lady of Kogi State, which was obtained by PERISCOPE NIGERIA.
Mrs Ododo emphasized the importance of preserving indigenous culture as a vehicle for fostering entrepreneurship, discipline, and unity among citizens.
“Our local content and indigenous practices are not just cultural expressions. They are economic tools capable of transforming our communities and inspiring national pride,” she said.
She made this known while receiving women and youth groups, former political office holders, and artists at her office in Lokoja.
Aligning her remarks with the Federal Government’s “Nigeria First” policy, the First Lady expressed confidence that the prioritization of local content would enhance employment opportunities across various value chains, promote self-reliance, and significantly boost the national economy.
“By investing in what we have and who we are, we are creating pathways for sustainable development that truly reflect the Nigerian identity,” Mrs Ododo noted.
She highlighted the administration of Governor Usman Ododo’s commitment to promoting self-sustenance, particularly within the creative industry, as a means of wealth creation for the state’s growing youth population.
“We are empowering our young people to turn their creativity into economic strength. The creative industry holds immense potential for job creation and youth engagement,” she stated.
Mrs Ododo also underscored the importance of reviving traditional societal norms and values that have positively shaped the nation’s development in the past. She further called for unity and tolerance among the people of Kogi State, regardless of ethnic, religious, or political affiliations.
In recognition of her efforts, the Ebira Tao Youth Association, Lokoja Chapter, presented Mrs Ododo with a prestigious award for her outstanding support and advocacy for the upliftment of vulnerable groups in the state.
“This award is not just for me, but for every woman and child whose voice must be heard and whose future must be secured,” Mrs Ododo said while receiving the plaque.
