Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has been honoured with The Sun Newspaper’s Political Personality of the Year Award, recognizing his outstanding contributions to grassroots mobilization, political consensus-building, and inclusive governance.
In his acceptance speech, Governor Ododo described the award as an impetus to further deliver on his social contract with the people of Kogi State, regardless of political or religious divides.
He reaffirmed his commitment to serving the state diligently, emphasizing that his leadership is a divine mandate entrusted to him by the people of Kogi State.
“I have told every Kogite that whatever happened before, during, and immediately after the election was a process God designed for us to be where we are today. I have invited everybody—our critical stakeholders, irrespective of political party affiliation or beliefs—to join hands with us to build our state,” Ododo stated.
Explaining the rationale behind the award, Managing Director/Editor-in-Chief of The Sun Publishing Limited, Mr. Onuoha Ukeh, acknowledged Governor Ododo’s remarkable efforts in grassroots political engagement and governance.
Ukeh commended Ododo’s leadership in fostering political unity, citing a recent meeting where the governor brought together political stakeholders across party lines, urging them to prioritize the state’s development over partisan politics.
“As governor, you have shown political sagacity, gingering the people to be politically conscious and to contribute their quota to the development of the state. Your prowess in grassroots mobilization has its roots in your days as Auditor-General for Local Governments in Kogi State, where you worked with officials to promote financial transparency, accountability, and good governance,” he noted.
Ukeh further described Governor Ododo as a leader committed to inclusive governance, ensuring that people living with disabilities, youth, and women have equal opportunities to thrive.
“You are breaking down barriers and ensuring inclusivity for all. Your warmth and charm make you a likable personality, proving that you are a leader to watch in Nigerian politics,” Ukeh added.
