The Okun Development Association (ODA) has taken its advocacy for the creation of Okun State to the National Assembly, engaging lawmakers on issues affecting the region, including security and economic development.

This was disclosed in a statement signed by Dayo Thomas, National Publicity Secretary of the Okun Development Association.

Led by its President-General, Ambassador Akenson Rotimi, the ODA delegation included Alhaji Adoga Ibrahim, Vice President (North); Araba Rufus Aiyenigba, Secretary of the Elders Council; Hon. Bolanle Amupitan, Abuja Liaison Officer; Mr. Hussein Folorunsho, Deputy Social Secretary; and Chief J.O Yusuf, representing the ODA Committee on Restructuring.

The delegation was warmly received by Hon. Salman Idris and Hon. Suleiman D. Aguye, both members of the House of Representatives from Okunland. The lawmakers reiterated their support for the creation of Okun State, a proposal currently under review by the National Assembly as part of broader plans to establish 30 new states across Nigeria.

Hon. Leke Abejide, a member of the Constitution Review Committee, assured the delegation of his commitment to mobilizing colleagues in support of ODA’s initiatives. He also pledged to facilitate the completion of the ODA House project in Kabba, underscoring his dedication to the region’s development.

Beyond state creation, discussions also explored opportunities to attract investments into Okunland’s extractive industries, leveraging the region’s mineral wealth for sustainable development.

ODA further expressed its backing for the administration of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo of Kogi State, commending initiatives such as the establishment of Kogi State University in Kabba, which they described as a significant milestone for the region’s educational advancement.