Tinubu Celebrates Yahaya Bello at 50, Hails His Role in Youth Inclusion

President Bola Tinubu has extended warm birthday wishes to former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, as he marked his 50th birthday.

The congratulatory message was shared on Wednesday through the official X handle of the Presidency, @NGRPresident, highlighting Bello’s legacy as a young trailblazer in Nigerian politics.

The statement described Bello as a significant figure in Nigeria’s Fourth Republic for emerging as the youngest democratically elected governor, noting his impact in promoting youth participation in governance.

“The President commends Yahaya Bello’s historic emergence as the youngest democratically-elected governor in Nigeria’s Fourth Republic and his role in advancing youth participation in governance.”

Bello, who governed Kogi State from 2016 to 2024, is being celebrated for his leadership achievements and early political rise. Tinubu wished him continued good health and fulfilment as he enters a new phase of life.

“As he marks this golden milestone, President Tinubu wishes Alhaji Yahaya Bello continued good health, strength, and fulfilment in the years ahead.”

Also paying tribute, incumbent Kogi State Governor Usman Ododo praised Bello’s legacy of inclusive governance and youth empowerment. His message, released through his Special Adviser on Media, Ismail Isah, reflected on the transformative impact Bello had on leadership dynamics in the state.

“Our leader, Governor Yahaya Bello, came as the pathfinder of the future. He built a system where sons and daughters of anybody could aspire for positions of influence,” Ododo said.

Ododo, who served under Bello before succeeding him, credited his political rise to the opportunities Bello created.

“I am here today as the Chief Servant of Kogi State and a living testament to that philosophy.”

He noted that Bello’s administration broke barriers by empowering youths and women across all levels, fostering a generation of purposeful public servants.

While the former governor celebrates his golden jubilee, he is also facing legal scrutiny. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has filed charges against him, including alleged money laundering, criminal breach of trust, and misappropriation of public funds. The case remains ongoing.