The Kogi State Governor, Usman Ododo, has extended heartfelt felicitations to his predecessor, Yahaya Bello, on the occasion of his 50th birthday.
This was contained in a statement issued on Wednesday by the Special Adviser to the governor on Media, Ismail Isah.
Ododo, in his tribute, 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 a lasting impact on the lives of many individuals and communities across Kogi State and Nigeria.
He recalled that the former governor 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,” he said.
According to him, Bello’s administration shattered traditional political glass ceilings by offering opportunities to youths and women across wards and local government areas, regardless of status or background.
He restated that the Bello 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 emphasised that Bello’s philosophy of governance was to serve as a bridge for ordinary people to access opportunities, noting that he ensured that those who served in his administration remained accessible to the people in their new roles at both the 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 stated.
Ododo said his emergence as a successor to the former Governor is a testament to Bello’s belief in grooming new generations of leaders, stressing that his legacy is manifest 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 as he celebrates the momentous anniversary of his 50th birthday.