Kupa community in Lokoja local government of Kogi State has historically been sidelined in the broader narrative of economic development, even with a population of about 50,000 people.
The community possesses significant economic potential, such as fertile land, mineral wealth, resilient people and strategic location. This offers immense opportunity for agriculture, mining, tourism, etc.. Moreover, the community’s rich cultural traditions could serve as a foundation for a thriving tourism sector, attracting visitors and investors alike. Yet, despite these assets, the community has not seen the same level of development.
The paramount area of concern to this community is drawing the attention of the government to developing road infrastructure, fostering entrepreneurship, and providing access to education and healthcare. Its strategic location indicates four major link roads to the community which are the Kabba-Ayetoro-Kupa Road, Kupa-Kpada-Patigi Road to Kwara state, Kupa-Kinami-Baro-Katcha Road to Niger state, and Lokoja-Jamata-Kakanda-Kupa Road but unfortunately, none of these roads is motorable especially during the raining season.
The efforts of the state government, which is tirelessly putting plans on the construction of the Jamata-Budan – Kupa road, and the federal government, should be acknowledged and appreciated. Two years ago the construction of Kabba-Ayetoro-Kupa Road was budgeted, awarded and contractors mobilised by the federal government but the contractor suddenly left the site some time a ago, at the critical part of work.
This is a call to government officials at the various tiers, private investors, and community leaders to collaborate to craft a development strategy that harnesses the community’s unique strengths. With the right support, Kupa can become a beacon of economic success, not only for its residents but for the entire nation.
It is essential to remember that economic development is not just about numbers and statistics—it’s about people. By investing in this neglected community, we are investing in the future of the state and Nigeria at large, ensuring that prosperity is shared by all.
Now is the time to act, to turn potential into reality, and to ensure that the Kupa community no longer remains in the shadows of other communities but shines brightly as a symbol of what can be achieved when a neglected community is given proper consideration.
God bless Nigeria.
Saidu Kupa wrote via [email protected]
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