By Thompson Yamput
Gov. Ahmed Ododo of Kogi on Wednesday extolled the exemplary and memorable leadership qualities of his predecessor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello as he celebrates his 50th Birthday.
Ododo described Bello’s 50th birthday anniversary 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 and Nigeria.
The governor, in a statement signed by his Media Aide, Ismaila Isah, extended his heartfelt felicitations to Bello, on the occasion of his 50th birthday.
He said, “I could recall you 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, Gov. 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.
“My emergence as a successor to the former Governor is a testament to Bello’s believe in grooming new generations of leaders.
“His (Bello’s) legacy is manifest in the performance of the present administration, having built a system that is sustainable and worthy of emulation.
“I am here today as the Chief Servant of Kogi and a living testament to that philosophy.
“Your administration shattered traditional political glass ceilings by offering opportunities to youth and women across wards and local government areas, regardless of status or background.”
He restated that the former Kogi governor 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.
Ododo emphasized that 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.
He acknowledged that 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,” he said.
The governor prayed for God’s continued guidance for the former governor in all his future endeavours as he celebrates the momentous anniversary of his 50th birthday.
