Prof. Mainasara Isah Katagum, the National Coordinator of Democratic Values and Good Governance Advocacy Forum, continues his assessment of Alhaji Yahaya Adoza Bello’s eight-year tenure as governor of Kogi State, highlighting the significant accomplishments in Kogi East. Describing Bello’s performance as “massive,” Prof. Katagum sheds light on the impactful developments that took place during his leadership from January 27, 2016, to January 27, 2024.
Through a meticulous review process aimed at advancing democratic principles, Prof. Katagum underscores Bello’s proactive approach in addressing challenges such as security issues, an overstaffed civil service, and economic strains exacerbated by the global recession.
In this phase of the review focusing on Kogi East, Prof. Katagum points out substantial progress in the predominantly Igala and Bassa-dominated region. These achievements include the construction of crucial roads like Ibana/Okpo-Ogugu/Ette Road and Idah/Ajaka/Ejule/Ayingba junction Road. Furthermore, Bello’s administration successfully connected the entire Kogi East to the National Grid, enhancing power supply throughout the area.
Additionally, the professor highlights rehabilitation road projects, township road constructions, and the establishment of a new state-of-the-art clinical complex at the Prince Abubakar Audu University Teaching Hospital, Ayingba. Bello’s government also effectively tackled gully erosion in specific areas, notably Ogugu and Ogane Aji.
In the education sector, Bello’s administration constructed science secondary schools and covered the West African Examination Council (WAEC) and Joint Admission and Matriculation Board (JAMB) fees for secondary school students, alleviating financial burdens across Kogi East and the state as a whole.
Moreover, Bello initiated several other major infrastructural projects in Kogi East, directly impacting the lives of the people. To promote unity and cohesion, he constructed the Igala Unity House in Anyigba, where essential functions promoting the values and developmental programs of the Igala People are carried out. Additionally, Bello undertook the construction of Bassa township road.
Looking forward, Prof. Katagum indicates that the next phase of the review will focus on the Central Senatorial district, promising to continue exploring Bello’s governance impact across Kogi State.
