Written by Barr. Halima Alfa Gaya, Ph.D
Today marks the 49th birthday of His Excellency, Alhaji Yahaya Adoza Bello, the Governor of Kogi State, Nigeria. This occasion has been met with an outpouring of praise and gratitude from his political disciples, supporters, and even some of his critics.
Alhaji Bello, fondly referred to as the “White Lion” and the “Father of Modern Development in Kogi State,” has been hailed as a transformative leader who has steered the state towards unprecedented progress during his eight-year tenure.
“Yahaya Bello is a leader who has created strong institutions rather than strong men to give Kogi State a new direction,” said Barr. Halima Alfa Gaya, Ph.D., a close associate of the governor. “He has deliberately made the state a knowledge economy for the good of all.”
Bello’s leadership has been described as a “political hurricane” that has reversed the downward spiral the state had witnessed since its creation in 1991. His unique approach to governance, which emphasizes inclusivity, has earned him the moniker “the Kashim Shettima of Kogi State,” drawing parallels to the celebrated governor of Borno State.
“Yahaya Bello is a leader who has made sure that everyone, no matter how small, rich or poor, from the smallest to the biggest ethnic group, is not denied the opportunity to live up to the promise of their talent,” Gaya observed. “He has eliminated the tired and retarding leadership recruitment process in the state that emphasized tribe, religion, and political zone as the basis for success.”
The governor’s foresight in appointing Alhaji Usman Ahmed Ododo as the current governor of Kogi State has been hailed as a testament to his political wisdom. Ododo’s impressive performance has vindicated Bello’s leadership and silenced his critics.
“Yahaya Bello is a humble man and a father who respects elders,” Gaya added. “He is a leader in whom I am well pleased, and his current challenges, which are ephemeral, will pass away because difficulties and disappointments are bound to happen to a common man.”
As the people of Kogi State celebrate Alhaji Yahaya Adoza Bello’s 49th birthday, they do so with a sense of gratitude and pride for the transformative leadership he has provided. His unwavering commitment to the development of the state and his unwavering support for his successor have earned him the admiration of many.
“Happy 49th Birthday Celebration, Our Leader and Benefactor, and Many Happy Returns,” Gaya concluded, echoing the sentiments of the people of Kogi State.
