By joshua 
Yahaya Bello: A Transformational Leader Leaves a Lasting Legacy in Kogi State
Former Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi State is widely regarded as a shrewd politician with a large heart and a divine touch.
His rewarding system and generosity have been key to his success, earning him the loyalty of his supporters and the admiration of his peers.
Bello’s rise to power was marked by controversy, having initially lost the 2015 gubernatorial election to Prince Abubakar Audu, who later died, paving the way for Bello’s ascension. Despite initial reservations, Bello proved to be a capable leader, leveraging his rewarding system to build a strong support base.
With key achievements that includes: Youth Empowerment: Bello encouraged youth participation in politics, appointing young and relatively unknown individuals to key positions.
In the area of Infrastructure Development: He oversaw significant improvements in road infrastructure, healthcare, and education, including the construction of modern hospitals and two State Universities a feat in Nigeria considered unprecedented.
Also in the area of Agricultural Growth: Bello’s policies transformed Kogi State into Nigeria’s food basket, with initiatives like the Confluence Rice Mill and agricultural subsidies.
One area that scored former Gov. Bello high in Nigeria is Security: He effectively tackled insecurity, reducing kidnapping and armed robbery, and establishing Kogi State as one of Nigeria’s safest states.
Bello’s eight-year tenure ended in 2024, with his successor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, taking over. His legacy continues to shape Kogi State’s politics, with many crediting him for breaking the politics of ethnic dominance in state politics.
Today, Alh Yahaya Bello who ruled Kogi State for eight years of two terms consecutively, was able to install another administration of Alh Usman Ahmed Ododo. His rewarding system still continues to pave way for him politically and thus made him the political changer and King maker in Kogi State politics.
His eight years political administrations has changed and killed initial barriers. The most interesting and convincing, with the election that brought the coming on board of the incumbent that is going to be the only source of political power rotation in Kogi State.
As the good people of Kogi West are keenly showing interest in Lugard House 2027, it is only safe to State that, the leadership of Gov. Usman Ahmed Ododo has proven that all that is needed is patience and collaboration, engagement before it becomes the turn of Kogi West
Concerned Citizens writes from Lokoja. (08033415426)