Ododo hails Yahaya Bello at 50, credits him for life-changing support

Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has penned an emotional tribute to his predecessor and mentor, former Governor Yahaya Bello, in celebration of his 50th birthday.

In the heartfelt message released on Tuesday, Governor Ododo described Bello as a transformational leader whose influence changed the course of his life. He recounted his humble beginnings, growing up under challenging conditions with his grandmother and attending school on an empty stomach.

“I wasn’t born into privilege,” Ododo wrote. “It was a miracle that I even went to school at all.” Reflecting on his journey, the governor credited Bello for recognizing his potential and trusting him with leadership even before he realized it himself.

“The day you told me I would succeed you, I wept,” he said. “You changed my story. You changed my name. You used my life to declare to the world that the child of a nobody can become somebody when men of destiny like you are placed by God in leadership.”

Governor Ododo praised Bello’s eight-year tenure as governor of Kogi State, describing it as one marked by honour, impact, and divine favour. He acknowledged Bello’s enduring legacy and expressed profound gratitude for the opportunity to continue his vision for a “New Kogi.”

“You are more than a boss, you are a leader — and a leader with a heart so pure, so rare,” he wrote. “I will never be ungrateful for all you have done for me, for my family, and for the people of Kogi State.”

Concluding the tribute, Ododo prayed for long life, peace, and continued influence for the former governor, whom he referred to as “the father of the New Kogi State.”

Yahaya Bello served as governor of Kogi State from 2016 to 2024 and played a significant role in shaping the current administration in the state.