FGYB’s Legacy Projects Still Impacting Lives Today
By Prince Muhammed Otaiki
Former Governor Yahaya Adoza Bello, CON (FGYB) may have completed his constitutional tenure, but his legacy continues to shine across Kogi State. His years in office were marked by courage, people-centered leadership, and a passion for development that went beyond words. Today, his projects in healthcare, infrastructure, education, youth empowerment, and security remain visible proofs of a leader who built with tomorrow in mind.
Under FGYB, healthcare in Kogi State took a bold leap forward. The ultra-modern Reference Hospital in Okene stands tall as one of the best-equipped in North Central Nigeria. Over 200 Primary Health Centres across the 21 LGAs were upgraded, ensuring that quality healthcare reached rural communities. Through the Kogi State Health Insurance Agency (KGSHIA), families gained affordable access to medical services, while maternal and child healthcare received special attention, saving countless lives.
He also transformed the physical face of Kogi with landmark projects. More than 600 kilometers of quality roads were constructed, linking rural villages with bustling towns. Lokoja witnessed its first major flyover the Ganaja Junction Flyover easing traffic and opening new economic possibilities. Iconic state structures such as the Revenue House, the Judiciary Complex, and the Modern Civic Centre reshaped the capital. Beyond the urban centers, he brought electricity to remote communities, connecting lives and opportunities.
Believing that the future belongs to the educated, FGYB established the Confluence University of Science and Technology (CUSTECH) in Osara, a hub for innovation and research. Across the state, hundreds of schools were rehabilitated and thousands of qualified teachers employed. His government championed girl-child education, drastically reducing the number of out-of-school children and giving hope to young learners.
FGYB built a legacy of empowerment. Over 20,000 youths and women were trained in vocational skills and supported to start businesses. The Kogi Youth Development Commission was created to give young people a voice and a future. Women rose to leadership positions in his administration, while youths dominated his cabinet a rare national achievement that positioned Kogi as a model of inclusive governance.
At a time when insecurity ravaged many parts of Nigeria, Kogi stood firm under FGYB’s watch. His government launched Operation Total Freedom, bolstering local security networks and strengthening community policing. By digitizing internal security intelligence, his administration drastically reduced kidnappings, cultism, and other crimes, making Kogi one of the safest states in the region.
FGYB modernized governance in ways never seen before in Kogi. He introduced digital civil service screening and payroll verification, ending the era of ghost workers. Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) grew from just N350 million to over N1 billion monthly. The launch of the Kogi State Geographic Information System (KOGIS) revolutionized land administration, while reforms in transparency and accountability blocked financial leakages.
The legacies of FGYB are not just structures; they are living testimonies of vision in action. They continue to empower the youth, educate the children, heal the sick, and protect communities every day.
History will remember Yahaya Adoza Bello, CON not only as a former governor, but as a builder, reformer, and visionary patriot. His story lives on in the smiles of students, the safety of families, and the hope of ordinary men and women across Kogi State.
His legacy lives on. His impact endures. His vision inspires.
— Prince Muhammed Otaiki, Media Entrepreneur
1st September, 2025