Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has acknowledged that his predecessor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello has succeeded in building a new generation of leaders in the state, for which he is a beneficiary.
In his tribute to the former Governor who just clocked 50 years, Governor Ododo recalled that Yahaya Bello made history in 2016 as the youngest Governor in Nigeria and the youngest to lead Kogi State, ushering in what has become a model for building a new generation of leadership in Kogi politics.
“Our leader, Governor Yahaya Bello, came as the pathfinder of the future. He built a system where sons and daughters of anybody could aspire for positions of influence; where streets once forgotten became pathways to leadership; I am here today as the Chief Servant of Kogi State and a living testament to that philosophy.”
Governor Ododo stressed that his emergence as a successor to the former Governor is a testament to Yahaya Bello’s belief in grooming new generations of leaders.
He made it clear that Yahaya Bello’s administration shattered what he called “traditional political glass ceilings” by offering opportunities to youth and women across wards and local government areas, regardless of status or background.
Governor Ododo confirmed that his predecessor built men and women of value not just with titles, but with purpose and raised individuals from different backgrounds to the corridors of public service and turned loyal followers into shining lights.
The Governor emphasized that Yahaya Bello’s philosophy of governance was to serve as a bridge for ordinary people to access opportunities, and he ensured that those who served in his administration remained accessible to the people in their new roles at both state and federal levels.
The governor described the 50th birthday anniversary of Yahaya Bello as a milestone worthy of honour and reflection in celebration of a man whose journey in leadership has been defined by courage, transformation, and lasting impact on the lives many individuals and communities across Kogi State and Nigeria.
He acknowledged that Yahaya Bello’s strides in civil service reform, education, healthcare, infrastructure, and security laid a foundation that continues to guide the present administration to succeed in the state.
“With over 30% of the state’s annual budget invested in education, two new universities established within four years, safer communities and many lives transformed, the results are there and we are consolidating on them.
“His commitment to promoting women in leadership with 35% affirmative action became a signature of inclusive governance, setting the standard for what we are now doing in Kogi State.”
Ododo stressed that the legacy of his predecessor is manifested in the performance of the present administration, having built a system that is sustainable and worthy of emulation.
He prayed for God’s continued guidance for the former governor in all his future endeavours.
