Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi State has declared his intention to support President Bola Tinubu’s success as his current ambition. The governor, who was a prominent presidential aspirant of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2023, believes that the success of President Tinubu will ultimately benefit all Nigerians.
During an interactive session with journalists at the 3rd Annual GYB Seminar for Nigeria’s Political & Crime Correspondents/Editors in Abuja, Governor Bello acknowledged the kindness of God in his own successes and achievements as the governor of Kogi State. He expressed his satisfaction in the progress made in the state under his leadership and expressed confidence in the ability of the APC candidate, Usman Ododo, to build on the solid foundation that has been laid down.
Speaking on the upcoming Kogi governorship election on November 11, Governor Bello predicted a resounding victory for the APC, stating that the party’s unity is the key to their success. He assured that any internal issues within the party would be resolved through the established mechanisms of the APC.
In a paper titled “Unity in a Multi-Ethnic, Multi-Religious Society: The Kogi Story,” the state’s Commissioner for Information, Kingsley Fanwo, emphasized the importance of campaigning on merit rather than ethnic sentiments. He highlighted the commitment of the state to prioritize merit and promote inclusive growth.
During the seminar, the President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Chris Isiguzo, delivered a paper on “Off Season Elections: Journalists as Responsible Watchdogs,” in which he urged journalists to prioritize responsible and ethical journalism. Isiguzo stressed the need for thorough fact-checking and transparency in reporting, emphasizing the influence of quality reporting on the nation’s future.
Another paper presented by the Commissioner for Finance, Budget, and Economic Planning, Asiru Idris, highlighted the deliberate policies implemented by the Yahaya Bello administration to foster good governance. These policies have resulted in increased accountability, transparency, and a reduction in the state’s debt burden. Idris also mentioned the development of a 32-year development plan, which will serve as a focal point for development partner interventions.
In a paper titled “Building a Viable Economy Through Strategic Investment in Education,” the Kogi Commissioner for Education, Science, and Technology, Mr. Wemi Jones, highlighted the state’s commitment to providing free and compulsory education. He mentioned that the budgetary allocation to the education sector in Kogi has surpassed UNESCO’s recommended benchmark, reflecting the state’s dedication to investing in the future through education.
With Governor Yahaya Bello’s support for President Tinubu’s success and the focus on responsible governance and development in Kogi State, the future looks promising for the state and the APC.
NAN
