FULOKOJA Music Students Present First Kogi State Anthem to Governor Usman Ododo
On July 17, 2024, Federal University Lokoja students unveiled the first-ever Kogi State anthem to Governor Usman Ododo, who pledged support for its adoption.
Mary Nwaeze 
On Wednesday, July 17, 2024, the management of Federal University Lokoja (FUL), led by Professor Olayemi Akinwumi, proudly presented the first-ever Kogi State anthem composed by the university's Music Department to the state government. This presentation was a significant part of the university's Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives.
The performance, featuring 200-level music students, captivated the audience, including the Executive Governor of Kogi State, His Excellency Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo. The governor was visibly impressed, expressing his gratitude for the historical contribution of the anthem, which he said would be forwarded to the State House of Assembly for official adoption. "I want to sincerely appreciate you for making me part of this history," Governor Ododo stated.
During the event, the governor shared his emotional response to the students' rendition, highlighting the anthem's poignant lyrics that reflect Kogi State's rich heritage, cultural diversity, and tourism potential. He remarked, "Kogi State is bordered by 10 states of the Federation and serves as the gateway between the North and South... We are blessed with mineral deposits in abundance yet they are not working for us."
Governor Ododo emphasized the need for unity to propel the state’s development and assured the university of his administration's unwavering support. He highlighted the importance of a strong relationship between the university and the community, which is essential for sustainable development.
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The Speaker of the Kogi State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Aliyu Umar Yusuf, who attended the event, echoed the governor's praise, promising legislative support for the anthem's adoption. In a show of appreciation, the governor requested the students to perform the anthem a second time, closing the ceremony with enthusiastic applause from the attendees.
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The university's management team present at the event included notable figures such as Professor M. S. Audu, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), and Associate Professor Godwin Ejembi Ogli, Head of the Music Department, who led the student performers.
This anthem marks a significant cultural milestone for Kogi State, reinforcing the university's commitment to fostering creative talents and engaging in community development.
For more updates, follow Federal University Lokoja on their [website](http://www.fulokoja.edu.ng) and social media platforms.
