The Ogidi community in Ijumu Local Government Area of Kogi State has bestowed its prestigious “Legend of Resourceful Democracy Award” on former Governor Yahaya Adoza Bello in recognition of his substantial impact on the state’s development.
Former Governor Bello, who was a special guest at the 2025 Ogidi Day Celebration Festival in Ogidi, was notably pleased with the honor and committed to supporting the kingdom’s development.
The annual Ogidi Day Celebration Festival is a vibrant celebration of the new yam harvest and various cultural traditions, drawing attendees from beyond Ogidi’s borders.
During the event, renowned artist Nike Okundaye, owner of the Nike Art Gallery, presented Governor Bello with a portrait of himself.
Okundaye stated that Bello’s commitment to delivering the dividends of democracy to Kogi State inspired her to honor him with the artwork.
In his address, the former Governor emphasized the vital role of culture as societal root and heritage, highlighting its influence on beliefs, traditions, thoughts, and actions.
While offering prayers for the continued prosperity of the Ogidi kingdom, the former Governor , urged members of the community in diaspora to always come home to be part of the festival and to enrich the community.
He affirmed that under his oversight, Governor Ododo’s administration would complete the road connecting Ayere and the Ondo boundary.
Bello also stated that all ongoing road constructions within the Ogidi kingdom are in their second phase and would be completed to the “GYB standard.”
He extended his congratulations to the newly crowned Bashorun Akinjagunla of Ogidi kingdom, Prince Olatunji Olusoji, commending his excellent work in Ogidi and even in his motherland, Delta State.
He pledged to collaborate with Prince Olusoji for the sustainable growth and development of both the Ogidi kingdom and Kogi State.
Bello called upon the people of Ogidi to embrace peaceful coexistence, unity, security vigilance, and to support the Local Government Chairman.
Commending President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as a “great father of the nation,” Bello urged the populace to support Tinubu’s re-election in 2027, envisioning a “clean sweep” victory.
He also advocated for Governor Ododo’s second tenure, stating “no vacancy in Lugard House” and encouraging votes based on Ododo’s performance.
He appealed to all traditional rulers to collaborate with their paramount ruler, the Obaro of Kabba, for the unified development of Kogi State.
He further expressed his desire for Kogi to become a “one-party state” in light of the President’s positive initiatives.
He concluded by thanking the people for their support throughout his eight-year governorship.
Architect Salman Idris, Chairman of the occasion, praised former Governor Bello for attending the festival and extended well wishes for his recent 50th birthday.
He highlighted the “gigantic developmental strides” Bello achieved during his tenure, emphasizing their lasting impact on the people of Kogi State.
A major highlight was the grand celebration of former Governor Bello’s 50th “Golden Jubilee” birthday, marked by the presence of dignitaries and a ceremonial cake cutting.
Accompanying Former Governor Bello were Senator Abubakar Ohere, the State Security Adviser, Commander Jerry Omodara (retd), the Commissioner for Special Duties; Sunday Faleke, the Commissioner for Education, Wemi Jones, and members of the State House of Assembly.
