The Kogi State House of Assembly has screened and confirmed Prince Destiny as Commissioner in the Kogi State Local Government Service Commission.
The confirmation followed a letter sent to the House by Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, requesting legislative approval for the appointment.
Destiny’s appointment comes as a form of compensation and recognition by the state government following the death of his father, Late Prince Abdurahim Salami Okekenu in December 2025.
Confirming the appointee during Thursday’s plenary, the Deputy Speaker of the Kogi State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Comfort Ojoma Nwuchiola Egwaba, said the decision of the House was based on the nominee’s suitability and the need to strengthen the Local Government Service Commission for improved service delivery.
The Deputy Speaker urged Prince Destiny to see his appointment as a call to service and to discharge his duties with diligence, integrity, and commitment to the development of the state.
Speaking with journalists shortly after his confirmation, the newly appointed Commissioner, Prince Destiny, expressed gratitude to God Almighty for the opportunity to serve, noting that his appointment was a testament to divine grace.
He also appreciated Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo for giving young people the chance to contribute meaningfully to governance in the state.
According to him, the responsibility ahead is significant, but he is prepared to learn and deliver on his mandate.
Prince Destiny, who hails from Upadja in Ajaokuta Local Government Area, described service to the people as his top priority.
He noted that his commitment to public service is inspired by the values instilled in him by his late father, Prince Abdurahim Salami Okekenu.
The Commissioner further extended appreciation to the Accountant General of Kogi State, Dr. Habibat Tijani Onumoko whom he described as a “mother of Kogi,” acknowledging her support for his family and others.
He also commended members of the Kogi State House of Assembly for finding him worthy of the appointment and pledged to justify the confidence reposed in him.
Prince Destiny assured the people of Kogi State of his dedication to promoting effective service delivery within the Local Government Service Commission.
On his part, the member representing Ajaokuta State Constituency, Hon. Jibril Abu, commended the governor for what he described as a thoughtful and symbolic appointment.
Hon. Jibril Abu said, “We want to appreciate His Excellency, Alhaji Usman Ododo, for considering the need to look within the family before extending his search outward. Just like in the Bible when they were searching for David, even after others had been presented, there was still someone left behind who later emerged. Prince Destiny is like that David in this time.”
He described the appointee as a focused and determined young man, adding, “Despite his age, he has shown from childhood that he is resilient and purposeful. His journey to this point is a reflection of that determination, and I believe this is just the beginning for him.”
The lawmaker further assured of support, noting that, “The responsibility before him is enormous, but with the ‘Not Too Young to Rule’ reality in Nigeria today, we expect nothing but the best from him. As a young and fresh appointee, he brings new energy, and we will support him to succeed whenever the need arises.”
He also reflected on the legacy of Prince Destiny’s late father, stating that, “His father, the late Prince Abdurahim, was a man who stood firmly against oppression and was deeply hardworking. That legacy lives on in him, and we expect him to uphold those values both in Ajaokuta politics and in his official duties.”
Hon. Abu appreciating key stakeholders, saying, “We also commend the Accountant General of Kogi State, whom we fondly call ‘Mama Kogi,’ for her unwavering support. Much has been done quietly, and we recognize her contributions in making this possible.”
