From Joseph Amedu, Lokoja
The Host Communities of Nigeria Producing Oil and Gas (HOSTCON), Kogi chapter, has expressed joy over the State Government receipt of its first 13% derivation allocation as an oil producing state and called for the establishment of Modular Refinery in the state.
The HOSTCON Chairman in Kogi, His Eminence, Bishop Gabriel DS Ojoka in a press statement made available to journalists in Lokoja, said that the establishment of Modular refinery for production of commercial Oil and Gas in Kogi will facilitate accelerated development in the state.
Ojoka congratulated the Government and the good people of Kogi State for the great feat, and affirmed the certainty of Kogi becoming ‘little London’ under the present administration with the declaration as member of Oil and Gas producing communities.
He stressed that the income of 13% derivation from oil and gas, had increased the state’s revenue to help tackle some needs within the environ and communities at large.
He, therefore, requested for quick establishment of Modular refinery for production of commercial Oil and Gas in Kogi.
According to him, the half sharing of 13% would hardly make a meaningful difference on the long high poverty level in Kogi without the establishment of modular refinery
He enjoined the Federal Government to speedily establish NDDC for projects, employment and development of Kogi State and the communities.
The Bishop also urged the state government to carry HOSTCON, Kogi chapter, along in planning, execution, and implementation of its programmes for the development of communities in the state.
”Congratulations to His Excellency, Yahaya Adoza Bello, the executive governor of Kogi State, and His Excellency, President Mohammadu Buhari.
”While working towards this victory, you behaved with such humility, grace and kindness to others.
”We appreciate how you always share your success with your team, and your love for (HOSTCON) community which is one of the reasons you rise to the top.
”Prophecy has been fulfilled as spoken on 10th October 2021, during the inaugural program of the State Traditional Council of HOSTCON, Kogi chapter,” Ojoka said.
His Eminence (Bishop) further congratulated the HOSTCON National Patron, Attah Igala, HRM, (Dr) Matthew Opaluwa Oguche; HOSTCON National Chairman, Prince (Dr.) Mike Emuh; and State Patron, HRH Pastor John Omojo Egwuda, the Dogah of Ikah Community.
Ojoka commended Attah Igala for his unprecedented achievement since his enthronement, saying, ”Agabaidu! Your emergence in a short period has registered significants progress in the history of our state”.