Vice President Kashim Shettima says President Bola Tinubu’s administration has confidence in the ability of Kogi Governor Usman Ododo to deliver good governance in the state.

Mr Shettima spoke during the swearing-in of Mr Ododo as the state governor at the Muhammadu Buhari Square in Lokoja.

The governor was sworn in together with his deputy, Salifu Oyibo.

Mr Shettima said the baton change from one progressive to another will not disrupt the dividends of good governance in the state.

He noted that Kogi State remained bound by the ideals and promises of a unified council of leaders and the largest party in Africa,” the All Progressives Congress (APC).

While delivering his speech titled, “Standing together, standing for the people,” Mr Shettima conveyed the heartfelt goodwill of President Tinubu to the people of Kogi.

According to him, Mr Tinubu holds absolute confidence in Mr Ododo as the new helmsman of the state.

” The president remains committed to collaborating to optimise the vast potentials of Kogi and bring to fruition the aspirations of its illustrious people,” he said.

Mr Shettima described the former Governor Yahaya as an “indefatigable White Lion, the people’s lion”.

The vice-president pointed out that the inauguration of Mr Ododo as Mr Bello’s successor was an “eloquent referendum on Bello’s stewardship.

”Kogi is fortunate to have our trusted patriots safeguarding their interests,” he added.

Mr Shettima observed that Mr Ododo is stepping in as the Kogi governor when it may seem difficult “to assume a leadership position in Nigeria”.

He, however, implored the governor not to despair, saying, “It is precisely during these tumultuous times that a leader of note proves his resilience.

” It is the same resilience that sets Nigerian leaders apart as they navigate through challenges that shape the nation’s collective destiny.”

The Vice-President emphasised the need for collective efforts in governance and teamwork among members of the APC in the state.

Mr 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 sectors.

Mr Ododo singled out President Tinubu for praise for his commitment to free and fair elections.

(NAN)