Gov Ododo commissions DAM Foundation projects

Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, the Governor of Kogi State and Dr. Abdullahi Mustapha, the Director-General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN), has commissioned key development projects executed by Dr. Abdullahi Mustapha Foundation (DAM), in Kogi Central, as part of efforts to advance education, strengthen community development and promote economic empowerment.

The projects, unveiled at a ceremony held at Kahal Hall, Inoziomi, in Adavi Local Government Area, included a modern hostel facility in Eika Adagu, Okehi Local Government Area, and the DAM Civic Centre at Ebegogo in Adavi LGA.

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Speaking at the event, Governor Ododo commended Dr. Mustapha for his commitment to grassroots development and described the initiatives as a demonstration of genuine concern for the welfare of the people.

He urged other well-meaning individuals and organisations to support government efforts by investing in people-centred projects capable of improving living standards across the state.

The newly commissioned hostel facility is designed to provide safe and conducive accommodation, particularly for students and young people, while the DAM Civic Centre is expected to serve as a hub for sports, civic engagement, cultural activities and community interactions, aimed at fostering unity and talent development at the grassroots.

In addition to the infrastructure projects, the DAM Foundation carried out a wide-ranging empowerment programme for residents across Kogi Central.

Items including bags of rice and beans, sewing machines, solar panels, solar streetlights, solar-powered televisions, writing materials, laptops and tools for artisans such as bricklayers and welders were distributed, while start-up funds were also provided to widows, motorcycle riders and market women, alongside food condiments to support vulnerable households.

In his remarks, Dr. Mustapha, founder of the DAM Foundation, said the projects were intended to go beyond physical structures, describing them as investments in hope, opportunity and long-term development.

He noted that the empowerment initiative was targeted at promoting economic inclusion, especially among youths and small-scale entrepreneurs, by providing them with tools, skills and financial support to build sustainable livelihoods.

The ceremony was attended by traditional rulers, political leaders and other senior government officials, whose presence underscored the importance of collaboration between public institutions and private philanthropy in driving sustainable development and improving the quality of life at the grassroots.