Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has praised his predecessor and political mentor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, as the former governor marks his 50th birthday.
Ododo described Bello’s leadership as bold and transformational, saying his impact is still being felt across the state and beyond.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by his Special Adviser on Media, Ismaila Isah, the governor said Bello’s emergence in 2016 as Nigeria’s youngest governor broke barriers and redefined politics in Kogi.
“Our leader, Governor Yahaya Bello, came as the pathfinder of the future,” Ododo said. “He built a system where sons and daughters of anybody could aspire for positions of influence. I am here today as the Chief Servant of Kogi State and a living testament to that philosophy.”
Ododo said Bello’s administration gave opportunities to youths and women across all parts of the state, without bias for background or status.
He noted that the former governor’s focus on civil service reform, education, health, security and infrastructure laid a strong foundation for his own government to build on.
“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,” he added.
Ododo also hailed Bello’s support for women in politics, noting that his 35% affirmative action policy became a model for inclusive governance in the state.
He said Bello’s style of leadership groomed new leaders and opened the door for more people to access public service.
The governor prayed for God’s continued guidance for the former governor, wishing him more success as he celebrates his golden jubilee.
