IFTAR: Yahaya Bello’s Ex-Aides Reflect on His Visionary Leadership
In a show of solidarity and gratitude, the Forum of Former Political Office Holders under the administration of Alhaji Yahaya Bello, former Executive Governor of Kogi State, paid a courtesy visit to the ex-governor in Abuja on Sunday. During the visit, the group observed Iftar with the former governor and had a brief meeting with him. The group extolled Bello’s transformative leadership and reaffirming their unwavering support for him.
The forum, comprising former appointees who served under Bello’s eight-year tenure, led by the interim Chairman, Hon. Isah Onimisi Babangida (Former SSA on Student Affairs and Currently SSA on Community Engagement to Governor Ododo), hailed his administration as a “transformative chapter” in Kogi State’s history. They praised his infrastructural achievements, including the construction of the Ganaja flyover and the extensive road networks that connected previously isolated communities.
“Your Excellency, your eight-year stewardship of Kogi State stands as a lighthouse whose beam cuts through the fog of underdevelopment that once shrouded our communities,” the forum stated. “When the annals of Kogi State’s history are penned down, your administration shall command pages resplendent with unparalleled achievements.”
The group also highlighted Bello’s commitment to inclusivity, particularly his groundbreaking appointment of women and youth to key positions. They noted that his administration achieved an unprecedented 35% representation of women in the cabinet, a move they described as a “revolutionary statement” that redefined the political landscape of the state.
“You did not simply open doors; you built new entrances where walls once stood,” the forum declared. “The seeds of empowerment you planted have now blossomed into a forest of confident leaders who continue to inspire others.”
In addition to his strides in governance, the forum commended Bello’s contributions to education, healthcare, agriculture, and security. They lauded the renovation of over 400 schools, the establishment of the Confluence University of Science and Technology, and the remodeling of hospitals, including the Reference Hospital, which significantly improved healthcare delivery in the state.
The group also praised Bello’s agricultural policies, which they said transformed Kogi into a hub of economic prosperity, and his security initiatives, which reduced crime rates and made the state one of the safest in Nigeria.
In his response, the former governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, expressed profound gratitude to the forum for their visit. He fervently implored them to remain resolute in their allegiance to the ruling party, emphasizing the imperative of unwavering commitment. Furthermore, he exhorted them to actively partake in the progress of Kogi State by discerning prevailing challenges and formulating pragmatic solutions. Such conscientious engagement, he asserted, would serve to fortify the present administration’s efforts in ensuring that the dividends of democracy permeate every corner of the state, leaving no community untouched by the benefits of governance.
The group also paid tribute to the incumbent Governor of Kogi State, His Excellency Ahmed Usman Ododo, recognizing him as a truly worthy successor. They commended his steadfast dedication to building upon the solid foundation of progress laid by his predecessor. With sincere devotion, they prayed for divine guidance, protection, and wisdom to accompany him as he leads the state to even greater heights.
Looking ahead, the forum expressed confidence in Bello’s future in national politics, describing him as a leader whose vision and courage are desperately needed on the national stage.
The forum concluded by pledging their loyalty and support to the former governor, expressing hope that his future endeavours would yield even greater achievements not just for kogi state, but Nigeria at large.
