Kogi Governor Yahaya Bello has congratulated Ilebaye Odiniya, the winner of the Big Brother Naija All-Stars Season reality television show, which ended Sunday.

Bello, in a statement in Lokoja by his media aide, Onogwu Mohammed, said her victory confirmed her brilliance, perseverance, and humility.

The governor described Ilebaye, a criminology graduate of Salem University, Lokoja, as a true trendsetter and Kogi’s pride.

“I am delighted to congratulate one of our own in Kogi, Ilebaye Odiniya, for emerging as the winner of the Big Brother Naija All-Stars season reality television show.

“Ilebaye, you are a trendsetter and Kogi’s pride who has excelled in both academic and social spheres.

“This victory is a testament to your brilliance, intellect, and maturity. Your determination, resilience, and poise set you apart during the three months you spent in the house,” he said.

Bello acknowledged Ilebaye as the face of a positive revolution in the history of African entertainment, not only for the youth of Kogi but for Nigeria, Africa, and the global community.

While celebrating Ilebaye’s achievement, Bello also commended the outstanding performance of Kogi youths in various academic and social endeavours across the country and the globe.

He recalled the recent global recognition received by another Kogi youth, Oluwabukolami Adeyemi, who emerged as the overall best performer in the 2022 Cambridge IGCSE and Cambridge AS Level Examinations, earning her an overseas scholarship for further education.

According to him, both Ilebaye and Oluwabukolami served as beacons of inspiration and motivation to other youths, not only in Kogi but across Nigeria.

He reassured the state’s citizens of his administration’s commitment to support and empower the youth to pursue legitimate aspirations.

The governor affirmed: “Our administration will continue to support and empower the youth through various initiatives aimed at fostering inclusion, job creation, and harnessing our natural youthful energy. ”

 (NAN)