Prince Abubakar University Teaching Hospital Anyigba currently under construction by the administration of His Excellency, Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi State. *** Governor Yahaya Bello at work on the age-old erosion ravaged section of the road from Anyigba to the headquarters of Dekina LG and to the neighboring Bassa LG.*** Ultra-modern General Hospital, Under Construction At Isanlu-Yagba East LGA-Kogi State. Similar projects ongoing simultaneously in two (2) other locations in the state, ie, Gegu in Kogi LGA and Eganyi in Ajaokuta LGA*** The World Bank commended Governor Yahaya Bello for refunding $4.63 million surplus funds under the Nigeria Erosion and Watershed Management Project (NEWMAP)***  This app, is an Audio/visual excursion into the stewardship of His Excellency, Governor Yahaya Bello*** 

GOVERNOR BELLO FELICITATES VICE PRESIDENT KASHIM SHETTIMA ON HIS 57TH BIRTHDAY

KOGI STATE GOVERNMENT
PRESS RELEASE

Governor Yahaya Bello, on behalf of the Government and the esteemed citizens of Kogi State, extends warm and heartfelt congratulations to Vice President Kashim Shettima as he marks his 57th birthday on September 2, 2023.

Governor Bello joins family members, friends and associates of the distinguished former Governor of Borno State, to express gratitude to the Almighty for endowing Vice President Shettima with an enduring reservoir of wisdom, profound understanding, unwavering compassion and steadfast leadership throughout his illustrious journey of service to Nigeria.

Governor Yahaya Bello underscores the fact that Senator Shettima’s exemplary contributions, spanning both the private and public sectors, have consistently borne the unmistakable hallmark of distinction.

He commends Senator Shettima for his unwavering dedication to our cherished nation, tracing a remarkable career trajectory from his tenure in the banking sector to his distinguished leadership as the Governor of Borno State, along with his impactful role as an educator at the University of Maiduguri.

While extolling Vice President Kashim Shettima for his unwavering commitment to societal improvement, Governor Bello acknowledges that the Vice President has left an indelible mark in the history of our nation’s development.

He fervently prays to God to grant Senator Shettima many more fruitful years and the insight to collaborate with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in advancing our nation’s progress.

ONOGWU Muhammed
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor

02/09/2023

Governor Yahaya Bello has approved the Appointment of Yahaya Ade Ismail as Commissioner for Special Duties.

OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY TO THE STATE GOVERNMENT,
KOGI STATE
PRESS RELEASE

Kogi State Governor, His Excellency, Alh. Yahaya Bello, CON has approved the appointment of Yahaya Ade Ismail as the Commissioner for Special Duties. This appointment underscores Governor Bello’s dedication to recognizing exceptional individuals who have demonstrated unwavering commitment and service to our beloved State.

Yahaya Ade Ismail, who has previously served as the Special Adviser to the Governor on Water Resources, has consistently shown outstanding dedication and an impressive track record of service. His deep-rooted commitment to the progress of Kogi State has earned him this esteemed recognition.

It is important to note that the appointment of Yahaya Ade Ismail as Commissioner for Special Duties is currently pending confirmation by the State House of Assembly. This process aligns with established procedures, ensuring that the selection is carried out in a transparent and accountable manner.

The Governor firmly believes that Yahaya Ade Ismail’s extensive experience and insights will greatly contribute to the advancement of our State’s development objectives.

Mrs Ayoade Folashade Arike, PhD, Secretary to the Government of Kogi State.

THE GOVERNOR’S ADDRESS ON THE 32ND ANNIVERSARY OF THE CREATION OF KOGI STATE

ADDRESS BY HIS EXCELLENCY, GOVERNOR YAHAYA BELLO OF KOGI STATE ON THE 32ND ANNIVERSARY OF THE CREATION OF KOGI STATE BEING SUNDAY, THE 27TH DAY OF AUGUST, 2023

Protocols.

My great people of Kogi State,

I address you today with a heart that is brimming with pride and hope as we celebrate the 32nd Anniversary of the creation of our beloved Kogi State. This historic occasion is a day of remembrance and recommitment toward progress, even as we pause again to reflect upon our journey, our achievements, and our dreams for the future.

Kogi State emerged as an entity from parts of Benue, Niger, and Kwara States on the 27th day of August, 1991 full of the promise and possibility of a new era for our people. Since that day, we have come a long way. In the process we have overcome challenges and though our history has been chequered, we have continued to journey towards a stronger and more vibrant Kogi State.

On this Anniversary, I have decided to reference my own contributions as a leader over the 8 years of my tenure which began on 27th of January, 2016 and will round off, by the grace of God Almighty alone, on the same day next year 2024. As for my predecessors, it suffices to say that their times in office, including their triumphs and failures, all contribute to the land and people we have become and are becoming as we march resolutely towards the greater future that we dream of. I salute each and everyone of them and do thank them sincerely, on behalf of all of us, for their services – such as it may have been.

Throughout my tenure as Governor, my commitment to the New Direction Blueprint has been the major driver of our actions and decisions. This policy plan has served us well as our guiding light, leading us towards the accelerated and proportional development we envisaged from inception across all constituencies in our State.

In education, health, infrastructure, youth empowerment, civil service reform, security, agriculture, and more, we have taken remarkable strides that are both visible and impactful today – even to the worst naysayer or skeptic. We have been able to do so much irrespective of the back to back years of financial underdelivery which has characterized our tenure from start to finish.

Our advances have been made possible because of our determination to display both astuteness and probity in Public Financial Management. We have diligently reformed our budgeting, procurement, debt management, revenue generation systems, and more. It is no longer news that our commitment to financial transparency and accountability has earned us the top position among Nigerian states in the World Bank’s States’ Financial Transparency, Accountability, and Sustainability (SFTAS) index, time and again.

In a nutshell, our success in leadership and governance has been meticulously planned and executed, and it is with the same intentionality that we embarked on the creation of the Kogi State 32-Year Development Plan earlier in the year. This plan will project our developmental aspirations for the next three decades, outlining both the short-term objectives that will derive from it and the longer term aspirations that we must pursue. Just as Alan Lakein once said, “Planning is bringing the future into the present so that you can do something about it now.”

Our vision is clear: to provide a ready Blueprint for our future leadership to continue developing Kogi State into Nigeria’s foremost and most secure emerging commercial hub, leveraging our geographical location, natural endowments, and human resources for a sustainable future. This envisions a functional sociopolity with self-sufficient economy, high standards of living and abundant socioeconomic opportunities that is sustained by industrialisation in an operational environment that promotes ease of doing business and climate-smart processes. We anticipate improved infrastructure, education, healthcare, security and agricultural advancements, with enhanced cooperation and integration amongst citizens.

Today, I look to that future with an urgent imperative to ensure that we do not fall into the hands of a leadership in our State after me that will ignore the needs of our people or of our State for good governance and proportional cum accelerated development that respects our great diversity.

In this regard, and as I round off my time in Office, I aim to ensure that Kogi State transitions into the hands of a successor that is committed to Continuity and Consolidation of the far-reaching legacies of our Administration and is able to keep providing our people with the empathetic, practical and transformational leadership that is so crucial the next stage of our development.

Alhaji Ododo Ahmed Usman is the candidate that we have selected and presented to Kogi State as the candidate for the 2023 Gubernatorial Elections and our preferred successor to the GYB years. He is well known for his humility and humanness, underlined by professionalism and strong leadership skills. I am confident in his ability to continue the upward trend in our growth graph established by our New Direction Administration and I solicit your support for him in the November 11 Kogi State Governorship Elections.

For the records, Kogi State is fully in support of recent hard decisions taken by the Administration of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to free Nigeria from some institutionalised practices with which ordinary Nigerians have been forced, for far too long, to subside their own despoliation at the hands of a rapacious few among the elite. I refer, of course, to the removal of the agelong fuel subsidy regime and the floating of the Naira.

The twin policies, though acutely necessary for freeing our people from the clutches of chronic Exploitation, have not been without labour pains. Indeed, their implementation have been quite hard on all Nigerians, including our people here in Kogi State. In response, the Federal Government has laid out a scheme of palliatives to cushion some of the painful impact. Let me assure us that here in Kogi State your Government is putting finishing touches to your own basket of palliatives and will soon deliver them to your doorsteps. These are hard times, but we promise to be with you every step of the way.

In closing, let us remember that any success we have seen as a state since we became one of the Federating units in the Federal Republic of Nigeria is not the work of a single individual or administration, but the collective effort of every Kogite. I thank you all for your dedication to working together with us to achieve a brighter future for Kogi State that transcends all personal and clique interests.

May the Almighty God continue to bless our Kogi State, increase our greatness and comfort us on every side.

Thank you.

YAHAYA BELLO
Governor of Kogi State

GYB Extended a Warm Reception to Senator Atai Aidoko

Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi state Earlier today, extended a warm reception to Senator Atai Aidoko Ali, alongside a substantial contingent of opposition party members, as they formally joined the ranks of the APC.

The noteworthy gathering took place at the Ugbamaka venue within the precincts of Olamaboro Local Government Area. Representing the governor was his Deputy, Chief Edward Onoja, who conveyed a heartfelt welcome to the senator and all those switching their allegiance to the APC.
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This reception was underscored by a profound commitment to ensuring equal opportunities for every member who now becomes part of the party’s fold.
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GYB Awards Scholarship to Oluwabukolami

Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi State has granted a scholarship to Miss Oluwabukolami Adeyemi, the recipient of the British Council Outstanding Cambridge Learner’s Award.

This award is in recognition of her remarkable performance in the 2022 Cambridge IGCSE and Cambridge AS Level Examinations.

The governor received Oluwabukolami and her parents at his office in Lugard House, Lokoja, on Wednesday. He expressed his satisfaction with her outstanding performance, which has positioned her as a distinguished representative of the state, country and the world in general.

Oluwabukolami, who has already secured admission to a university in the United Kingdom to study law, shared her aspiration of becoming a successful lawyer.
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She also aims to excel in her profession internationally, with cross-border access to legal practice.

Furthermore, Oluwabukolami expressed her ambition to play a significant role in government, either by holding leadership positions in Nigeria or contributing to policy-making and legislative processes.

She requested prayers for her parents, who were facing the financial burden of funding her education abroad.

Governor Bello commended Oluwabukolami’s exceptional performance and encouraged parents to follow the example set by Mr. and Mrs. Adeyemi in nurturing their children for success through dedication to education.

He emphasised that Oluwabukolami achieved global recognition due to her intellectual prowess rather than any inappropriate means.

Continuing his tradition of generosity, the governor, who has previously awarded multiple scholarships to outstanding students and supported medical expenses locally and internationally for indigent patients, announced that Oluwabukolami had been granted a scholarship in his name.

Engr. Olumide Adeyemi, Oluwabukolami’s father, expressed deep gratitude to the governor, described the scholarship offer as unbelievable and offered prayers for the well-being of the governor and his family.

Oluwabukolami Adeyemi shattered the glass ceiling by achieving the highest scores in the examination, which was conducted across 146 countries worldwide.

ONOGWU Muhammed
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor
23/08/2023

Governor Bello Expresses Optimism In FG’s Determination to Improve Road Infrastructure

…Commends Minister of Works on His Working Visit to Kogi

Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello has expressed optimism regarding the Federal Government’s commitment to enhancing the country’s road infrastructure. Speaking from the Government House in Lokoja, Governor Bello expressed deep appreciation for the Minister’s proactive approach in inspecting deteriorating federal roads within the state which demonstrated a significant dedication to resolving pressing infrastructure issues. He also praised Senator Dave Umahi, the Minister of Works, for his visit to Kogi State on August 22, 2023.
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The governor highlighted the concern surrounding the condition of federal roads in Kogi State, emphasizing its strategic position as the connecting point between Northern and Southern Nigeria. He acknowledged the hardships faced by commuters, the negative impact on trade and the economy, and the strain on transportation systems. Governor Bello extended gratitude to both Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the President of Nigeria, and the Minister of Works for recognizing the challenges and pledging prompt interventions to alleviate the situation.
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“The condition of our federal roads has been a source of great concern to our administration, the people of Kogi State and Nigerians in general, owing to the fact that Kogi is geographically the connecting point between the Northern and Southern Nigeria. The suffering endured by commuters, the negative impact on trade and economic activities, and the strain on our transportation system have not gone unnoticed. It is with this in mind that we extend our sincere appreciation to the Honorable Minister for not only acknowledging this plight but also for promising urgent interventions to alleviate the situation”, the governor said.
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He emphasized the collaborative efforts between federal and state governments in addressing infrastructure issues as a hallmark of effective governance. He expressed confidence in the transformative potential of the President’s “Renewed Hope” agenda for the nation’s economy and citizens’ well-being and believed that urgent interventions promised by the Minister would mark a turning point for citizens who regularly travel these roads.

Earlier, Senator Dave Umahi commended Governor Yahaya Bello’s commitment to the people of Kogi State and his administration’s accomplishments across education, healthcare, and infrastructure. The Minister expressed gratitude for the Governor’s warm reception upon his appointment as Minister of Works and for his dedication to the betterment of Kogi State. Senator Umahi acknowledged the state of federal roads and the government’s comprehensive turnaround efforts. He revealed plans for long-lasting, low-maintenance concrete roads and assured swift progress on all federal road projects in Kogi State.
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He disclosed that the federal government is considering concrete road construction innovation which he said it has low-maintenance cost and can last for over 50 years without maintenance. He also disclosed that concrete roads are cheaper in terms of construction cost and the guarantee of construction materials.

The Minister promised to redesign the Lokoja-Ganaja-Ajaokuta road and appreciated the Governor’s road maintenance efforts. The areas inspected included bridge reconstruction at Gada-biu, the Abaji section of Abuja-Lokoja road, Koto-Karfe bridge, Murtala bridge, Lokoja-Ganaja-Ajaokuta road, Lokoja-Okene road, and Lokoja-Kabba road.

ONOGWU Muhammed
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor,
August 23, 2023.
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GYB Undertakes a Functional Visit to the Minister of Works

Kogi State Governor His Excellency Yahaya Bello undertakes a functional visit to the Minister of Works, Engr. Dave Umahi. During this visit, Governor Bello congratulated the Minister and expressed his strong belief in Engr. Umahi’s competence and dedication to enhancing road infrastructure in Nigeria.

Engr. Umahi warmly welcomed Governor Bello and commended his impressive work in Kogi State, as well as his genuine care for his constituents, exemplified by the governor’s visit to Engr. Umahi’s office. Engr.
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Umahi highlighted that the improvement of road infrastructure stands as a top priority for the “Renewed Hope” administration of President @officialABAT.

Following their discussions, the Governor and Minister proceeded to conduct an inspection of federal roads throughout Kogi. This collaborative effort demonstrates their commitment to enhancing infrastructure and fostering progress in the state.

ONOGWU Muhammed
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor
August 22, 2023
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Governor Bello attends burial of late father of Fmr. Senator, Attai Aidoko

…urge citizens to emulate Late Ali Okwoli’s exemplary life of good traits, unite against divisive forces.

Governor Yahaya Bello attended the burial ceremony of Late Chief Ali Okwoli, the father of former Kogi East senator, Attai Aidoko Ali. During the event held at Ugbamaka Igah in Olamaboro Local Government Area of the state, Governor Bello emphasized the importance of emulating Ali Okwoli’s exemplary life, which was marked by good traits, and encouraged citizens to unite against divisive forces.
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Describing the late Chief Ali Okwoli as a man who led a fulfilled life across all aspects, Governor Bello urged people to adopt the commendable qualities that set him apart, making him deserving of celebration both in life and death.

The governor attested that Olamaboro, and by extension Igala land, holds a special place in his heart, always feeling like home. He urged people to overcome differences that hinder progress and instead embrace unity, which could lead to greater achievements for the state and its residents.

The governor stressed the unity of Kogi state, stating that tribal differences shouldn’t divide them.

He highlighted the state’s abundant natural, mineral, and human resources, cautioning against allowing trivial matters to create divisions that would prevent them from benefiting collectively.
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Under his leadership and with a united purpose, Governor Bello stated he had stood against intruders seeking to exploit the state’s resources selfishly. He emphasized that a continuity government would ensure Kogi remains united against such invaders, enabling the people to fully enjoy the blessings bestowed upon the state by God.

Governor Bello admired Chief Ali Okwoli’s well-lived life and his family’s strong connection to culture and religion. He praised their inclusive approach and lack of discrimination as a legacy of unity.

Former Senator Attai Aidoko expressed gratitude for Governor Bello’s attendance, seeing it as an honor not only to his late father and family but to the entire Olamaboro Local Government Area. He highlighted the wealth reflected in his father’s passing, evident from the caliber of attendees. He assured the governor and the All Progressives Congress of his loyalty and promised to reciprocate the goodwill shown to his family.
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Salifu Joel Oyibo, the deputy governorship candidate representing the All Progressives Congress gubernatorial candidate, extended condolences to Chief Ali Okwoli’s family and the Olamaboro community. He saw Governor Bello’s presence as a strong display of love for the Igala nation, vowing to ensure victory in the upcoming elections.

HRH. Simeon Ujah, the Ejeh of Olamaboro and chairman of the Olamaboro Local Government Traditional Council, expressed delight in hosting Governor Bello. He celebrated Chief Ali Okwoli’s contributions to the region and state, noting that finding a replacement for him in Igala land would be a challenging task due to his significant impact.

ONOGWU Muhammed
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor
19/08/2023

Gov Bello Describes SGF’s Appointment as Testament to Diligent, Trustworthiness

Kogi State Governor, His Excellency Yahaya Bello, CON, graced a reception organized by the North Central Governors’ Forum to honor the Secretary to the Government of the Federation and former governor of Benue State, His Excellency Dr. George Akume.

Amidst the event held at the International Conference Centre in Abuja, the nation’s capital, the governor extolled the SGF as a refined, committed, and trustworthy leader with an excellent service record.

He conveyed his confidence that the people of North Central Nigeria and the nation as a whole would wholeheartedly offer their support and cooperation to Senator George Akume in the fulfillment of his responsibilities.

The occasion, graced by the vice president of Nigeria, Senator Kashim Shettima, GCON, the president of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, other political heavyweights, captains of industry, and traditional rulers, saw Bello acknowledge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s appointment of Senator Akume as the SGF as a testament to his diligence, accommodation, and trustworthiness.
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Bello joined the family, friends, and political associates of the former governor of Benue State in celebrating his notable achievements.

He also offered prayers for God to grant him wisdom and deeper understanding in carrying out his duties.

ONOGWU Muhammed
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor
18/08/2023
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Press week: Gov Bello pledges protection of Journalists’ rights, duties in Kogi

Kogi Governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, on Wednesday said his administration would continue to promote Professionalism and protect the rights and duties of Journalists in the state.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the governor gave the assurance during the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Kogi Chapter’s 2023 Press Week and Book Launch.

Bello, who was represented by his information commissioner, Kingsley Fanwo, expressed satisfaction with the performances of Journalists working in Kogi.

“We will also ensure that the nexus between the need to inform and the rights to inform, which created Journalism, will continue to be advanced by my administration.

“This is because we have done a lot to ensure that the media in the state, especially the state-owned Broadcasting and Printing Press, are in top notch today.

“The transmitter we have in the Radio Broadcasting Corporation is one of the best in the country and it was deliberately acquired for the benefit of our people,” he said.

He said that the book, “Media Development in Kogi State – 1991-2023”, is one book he would take a particular interest in going through its contents.

According to him, Bello is interested in the history of practice of journalism and how Journalists have made an impact in the growth and development of Kogi.

Earlier, Chief Chris Isiguzo, the NUJ National President, had said that the Kogi council Chairman, Alhaji
Mimoh jimoh, had demonstrated exceptional commitment and visionary leadership in positioning the council.

Isiguzo said that Momoh has ignited a new era of progress, peace and unity amongst Journalists and with the state government and other stakeholders in the state.

“The chairman’s tenure has nurtured a more cohesive and vibrant union advocating for welfare and progress of Journalists in the state.

“As we applaud the achievements and launching of the book, let’s recommit ourselves to principles and novels of the profession of Journalism.

“Let’s embrace the pursuit of truth and relentless quest for transparency and accountability. Let’s honour the legacy of those who came before us by continuing to shape the narrative of our society with integrity, courage and dedication to excellence,” he said.

In his welcome address, Momoh thanked the state governor and his administration for giving Journalists practicing in the state the opportunity to thrive and make their contributions to the development of the state.

The chairman, who described the book launch as a “precious legacy” he dreamt to bequeath the state NUJ council, expressed gratitude to God that Journalism had greatly contributed to the growth of Kogi.

NAN reports that the press week witnessed the presentation of awards to six meritorious individuals, including Mrs Hannah Abraham, Provost, Kogi College of Nursing, Obangede, and Dr Arome Salifu, CEO African Youths Growth Foundation. (NAN)

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