Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo of Kogi State has congratulated his predecessor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, on the occasion of his 50th birthday, describing him as a leader whose exemplary and enduring leadership qualities continue to shape the political landscape of the state.
In a statement issued by his media aide, Ismaila Isah, Ododo described Bello’s 50th birthday as a significant milestone deserving of honour and deep reflection.
According to the governor, the celebration marks the life of “a man whose journey in leadership had been defined by courage, transformation and lasting impact on the lives of many individuals and communities across Kogi and Nigeria.”
Reflecting on Bello’s political legacy, Ododo 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 belief in grooming new generations of leaders.
His 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.”
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Ododo further praised Bello’s inclusive style of governance, noting that his administration
“shattered traditional political glass ceilings”
by creating space for young people and women across all levels of governance, irrespective of background or status.
He added:
“The former governor built men and women of value, not just with titles but with purpose, raised individuals from different backgrounds to the corridors of public service and turned loyal followers into shining lights.”
According to Ododo, Bello’s philosophy of leadership prioritised access and opportunity for ordinary people, ensuring that many who served under him remained close to the people in their current roles at both state and federal levels.
He also commended the former governor’s achievements in key areas of governance, stating:
“His strides in civil service reform, education, healthcare, infrastructure and security laid a foundation that has continued to guide the present administration to succeed in the state.”
Highlighting some of those achievements, Ododo said:
“With over 30 per cent 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 per cent affirmative action became a signature of inclusive governance, setting the standard for what we are now doing in Kogi State.”
Governor Ododo concluded by offering prayers for his predecessor, wishing him divine guidance and success in all future endeavours as he marks his 50th birthday.
