Kogi Moves To Unlock Climate Funds As Ododo Declares Open CFRA Programme
Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, says his administration is moving beyond promises to practical action in tackling climate change.
Governor Ododo stated this on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, at the opening plenary of the Climate Finance Readiness Assessment (CFRA) Technical Assistance Programme held in Lokoja.
The Governor, who was represented by deputy governor Salifu Joel Oyibu. said climate change remains a major threat to the environment, agriculture, water resources and livelihoods in the state, hence the need for collective and sustainable solutions.
He commended the Ministry of Environment and Ecological Management, the Kogi State Climate Change Agency and the Partnership for Agile Governance and Climate Engagement (PACE) for strengthening the state’s capacity to access climate finance.
According to him, the administration has taken bold steps to address climate issues, including the establishment of the Kogi State Climate Change Agency and the creation of a legal and institutional framework to coordinate climate policies and programmes across the state.
“We are determined to move beyond commitments to a structured and coordinated approach to climate governance, environmental sustainability and resilience,” the Governor said.
Ododo added that the state is also developing its own Climate Change Policy and deepening collaboration with national and international partners, including participation in global climate engagements, to develop investment-ready projects that can attract climate finance.
He described the CFRA programme as a crucial step towards identifying Kogi’s strengths, addressing gaps, strengthening institutions and improving accountability in climate funding.
The Governor urged all Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) and other stakeholders to take full advantage of the programme to deliver practical results that will benefit communities.
He appreciated PACE for providing the technical assistance at no cost to the state, saying the partnership shows the value of collaboration in tackling climate challenges.
While declaring the programme open, Ododo assured that his administration will continue to support responsible environmental policies that improve the quality of life of the people.
Earlier, the Director-General of the Kogi State Climate Change Agency, Michael Onimisi Ajibade, said the assessment would help the state identify gaps and improve its chances of accessing climate funds.
He commended Governor Ododo for supporting climate action and environmental sustainability, while appreciating PACE for partnering with the state on the assessment.
Ajibade urged ministries, departments, agencies and other stakeholders to support the exercise and ensure that its recommendations translate into tangible benefits for the people of Kogi State.
Similarly, the Commissioner for Environment and Ecological Management, Engr Joseph Oluwasegun Stephen, commended Governor Ododo for his commitment to environmental protection and climate action.
He said the state was strengthening climate governance through the establishment of the Kogi State Climate Change Agency, the implementation of its climate change policy and collaboration among government ministries and agencies.
Engr Joseph explained that the assessment would help identify gaps, improve the state’s readiness to access climate finance and attract investments for climate-related projects.
