NUJ Merit Award: Kogi Governor’s Aide hails Yahaya Bello’s recognition for Press Freedom, security legacy

The Special Adviser to the Kogi State Governor on Information and Communication, Chief Jacob Edi, has congratulated former Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, on receiving a prestigious merit award from the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ).

The award was conferred during a grand event marking the union’s 70th anniversary, in recognition of Bello’s contributions to press freedom, infrastructural and educational advancement, human capital development, and security management during his administration.

According to Chief Edi, Yahaya Bello’s innovative security framework, which effectively kept criminal elements at bay throughout his tenure, earned him this notable honour from the NUJ leadership.

He further praised Bello’s political wisdom, particularly for successfully averting the kind of leadership disputes between successors and predecessors that have plagued other states.

“But for the depth of his thought process, today, Kogi would have been struggling with successor/predecessor crisis which has become prevalent in our clime,” Edi remarked.

Chief Edi also commended the harmonious relationship between the current Governor, Usman Ododo, and his predecessor, describing it as exemplary. He noted that the peaceful political atmosphere in Kogi is a reflection of Bello’s foresight and Governor Ododo’s effective leadership, which has not only promoted unity but also transformed former political rivals into allies.

He described Governor Ododo, popularly called “The Chief Servant” by his supporters, as a fast learner whose impressive performance proves his capacity to integrate the state and foster inclusivity.

As a former Chairman of the Abuja Council of the NUJ himself, Chief Edi applauded the credibility of the Comrade Abdullahi Yahya-led NUJ leadership. He said the transparent reasons for awarding Yahaya Bello would undoubtedly endure, further cementing the NUJ’s integrity and unbiased disposition.