From Noah Ocheni, Lokoja
Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello on Thursday in Lokoja said the state has received the first tranche and first payment of thirteen percent derivation fee from the Federation Account.
Governor Bello announced this at the commencement of the State Executive Council meeting at the Government House, Lokoja.
The Governor who delighted with the development, said the action was an indication that Kogi State had been officially recognized and confirmed as an oil producing state.
According to him, history was being made as Kogi, a northern state was recognized as an oil producing state.
“This wouldn’t have been made possible without the support of Mr. President and yourself and of course the Revenue Mobilization Allocation and Fiscal Commission and all wishers of Kogi State. Today, Kogi State….is the 1st oil producing state from the north. I thank you and on behalf of the good people and government of Kogi State, we’ll continue to appreciate and thank you sir”he added.
He expressed appreciation to President Muhammadu Buhari, Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, members of the National Economic Council as well as the Revenue Mobilization, Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) for their support.