Deputy President of the Senate, Ovie Omo-Agege says Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello is a role model for Nigerian youths, adding that the country would need more of his ilks to occupy positions of power in the polity.

Mr Omo-Agege made the remarks in Lokoja on Friday when he attended an event to mark the 46th birthday of Mr Bello.

The lawmaker said that the ruling APC was proud of Mr Bello and his performance as governor in Kogi, pointing out that Mr Bello had contributed greatly to the growth of the APC.

“You have made great efforts to grow the party for us, especially through your efforts in mobilising youths and those with special needs into the party. Our party is proud of you.”

Mr Omo-Agege declared that because Mr Bello “has done exceedingly well and has represented his generation well,” President Muhammadu Buhari has admitted that his generation is ready to pass the baton to the younger generation.

“We have listened to all the speakers and how they have talked of the role you played in bringing security to Kogi State, Nigerians are proud of you.

“We all knew how the state was before you became governor and your efforts can be seen clearly,’’ he added.

Also at the event, the principal officer disclosed that the Senate is working currently on a bill to set aside 30 per cent of seats at the National Assembly and  40 per cent of seats at states’ houses of assembly for young people.

“If youths are given such an opportunity, they will not have the time to participate in protests when they will be seated at executive council meetings,” Mr Omo-Agege reckons.

He said that once the law was put in place, youths in the country would become more engaged and focus less on crimes and criminal activities.

(NAN)