The youths of Nigeria were in the past confronted by systematic barrier of age which limited their active involvement in politics as active candidates. This barrier was borne out of the efforts of the ruling class of elder state men to halt intrusion into its class especially by members of the younger generation. This was also the case in Kogi State before the coming of Governor Yahaya Bello.
Political appointments were reserved only for very elderly party leaders.
The Nigeria youths felt excluded from the political institutions where resources are authoritatively allocated. But with the recent development in Nigeria’s political system, the ”Not too Young to Rule Act” which seek to reverse the trend and widening the political space for youths participation, Governor Adoza Yahaya took advantage of it and contested for the highly coveted seat among overused old Political Landlords and performed greatly in the primary election. But as fate and destiny would have it, the political paradigm shifted and AYB as was fondly called then became the first youngest youth to enjoy the act and became the youngest Governor in Nigeria.
Immediately the governor assumed office he began to open spaces for other youths and incorporated them into his government. It is not a news that these crops of youths have performed excellently in their various capacities, I can go on to mention but a few. The then COS and now Deputy Gov, Commissioners of Finance, Information, Local Govt, Education, Youths & Sports, All Administrators and now Chairmen, present Chief of Staff the very youthful philanthropist, LGA Secretaries, Ladies Council Leaders, Vices and many more are all youths who are now actively involved in governance.
Going by recent involvements especially regarding the participation of young people in Kogi Politics ithe words of Attahiru Jega and a renowned writer Ebenezer Babajide on Youths involvement in governance comes to mind.
The former Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in 2014 said, “Nigeria as a country has capable youths that could chart the course towards a great nation but the bane is that they have been sidelined”.
There is a lot to give us concern as a nation about the socioeconomic and political quagmire which the old politicians have plunged us to.
All Nigeria need is to give the youths opportunity to showcase their talents and political dexterity.
The Only youth who has the political dexterity, capacity capability and ability to pilot the country towards greatness is Governor Yahaya Adoza Bello.
He is endowed with innovative ideas, he’s been an astute public administrator, a vibrant manager, forthright leader, dynamic politician, competent governor, highly resourceful, visionary governor, bridge builder and exemplary role model.
Governor Yahaya Bello’s sterling and enduring legacies in governance in Kogi State especially during the pandemic is an eye opener and a pointer that young men if entrusted with the mantle to lead will not jeopardize the economy and can do better.
Governor Yahaya Bello has distinct himself for excellence among all Governors in Nigeria because of his unprecedented achievements in security, infrastructure, youths and women inclusiveness in governance, religious tolerance, community and human capital developments and unison among diverse ethnic groups in Kogi State.
For the first time in over 30 year the state has enjoyed relative peace in the central, west and east, eradication of thuggery and youths engagements.
Based on these track records of qualitative leadership and achievement’s in Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello stands as sure bet to pilot the affairs of our dear Country, Nigeria come 2023.
Ade Ariyo Writes from Aduge.
Courtesy of JAGABAN
Hon. Alh. (Dr) Taufiq Isa (IION). The Armour-Bearer of GYB- PYB in Kogi West.