Nigeria's Vice President, Kashim Shettima has expressed confidence in the ability of the newly sworn-in Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Usman Ododo, to deliver good governance to the residents of the state.
VP Shettima noted this at inauguration ceremony for Ododo and his deputy, Mr. Salifu Oyibo, at the Muhammadu Buhari Square in Lokoja.
The vice president hinted that the change of baton from one progressive to another will not disrupt the dividends of good governance in the state.
He noted that Kogi State is bound by the ideals and promises of a unified council of leaders and the largest party in Africa, the All Progressives Congress (APC).
He said that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu holds absolute confidence in Ododo as the new helmsman of the state.
“The president remains committed to collaborating to optimize the vast potentials of Kogi and bring to fruition the aspirations of its illustrious people.
“This historic day is not an orphan; it is born from a collection of sacrifices and an inventory of commitments to serve the people.”
“This historic day is the ultimate demonstration of faith in Alhaji Usman Ahmed Ododo, a man fit for the shoes he is about to step into.”
Shettima described the former Governor Yahaya Bello, as “indefatigable White Lion, the people’s lion”.
The vice-president pointed out that the historic inauguration of Ododo as Bello’s successor was an “eloquent referendum on Bello’s stewardship.
“We are not here by accident, for none of us would ever escape our destiny. It’s this fatalism in our service to humanity that inspires our humility to stay on track.
“We are here merely because we are chosen by the people to represent their ideals. While political parties embody ideologies, it is the people who uphold the value system that appeals to our humanity.”
He, however, implored the governor not to despair, saying that “it is precisely during these tumultuous times that a leader of note proves his resilience.
Ododo pledged to build on the achievements of his predecessor, to move the state forward.
The governor, who promised not to betray the people’s trust, also pledged to pay attention to the health, education, agriculture and infrastructure sector.
Ododo singled out Tinubu for praise, applauding his commitment to the conduct of free and fair elections.
