A youth leader from Kogi State, Oladele John Nihi, has described the senatorial aspiration of former governor, Yahaya Bello, as a strategic project aimed at strengthening the state’s influence at the national level.
In a statement he signed and made available to the media on Monday, Nihi said Bello’s ambition to represent Kogi Central Senatorial District goes beyond conventional representation and should be viewed as a broader movement for the advancement of the entire state.
According to him, the former governor remains one of the most nationally recognised political figures from Kogi State, with extensive political experience, strong national connections and a reputation for promoting youth inclusion in governance.
“The senatorial aspiration of former Governor Alhaji Yahaya Adoza Bello transcends the conventional boundaries of representing only the people of Kogi Central Senatorial District,” he stated.
“It is, indeed, a strategic movement for the advancement of the entire state and the strengthening of Kogi State’s voice within the national government architecture.”
Nihi argued that Kogi State requires stronger representation and visibility in national politics, adding that Bello’s presence in the National Assembly would enhance the state’s access to opportunities and federal influence.
“At a critical time when Kogi State requires stronger visibility, strategic representation, and active participation in shaping national discourse and policy direction, the emergence of Alhaji Yahaya Bello at the National Assembly would undoubtedly position our dear state for greater opportunities, enhanced federal presence, and accelerated development,” he said.
The youth leader also praised Bello’s tenure as governor, citing what he described as investments in youth participation, women inclusion, infrastructure and security.
“Today, many young people across Nigeria still see him as a symbol of generational leadership and political inclusiveness,” he added.
Nihi called on residents of the state, particularly youths, to support the former governor’s aspiration irrespective of political or ethnic differences.
“I particularly call on the youths of Kogi State to rally massively behind this project. The future belongs to those who are prepared to support visionary leadership, competence, and strategic representation,” he stated.
According to him, Bello’s aspiration represents “a pathway towards strengthening the future of Kogi State within the Nigerian federation.”
He urged Kogites to “rise beyond sentiments” and support what he described as a course capable of advancing the image and interests of the state at the national level.
