Former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, has described President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as the “angel” sent by God to rescue Nigeria from decades of systemic decay.
Speaking during an endorsement rally for President Tinubu and Kogi State Governor Usman Ododo on Saturday, broadcast live on TVC, Bello urged Nigerians to stop waiting for miraculous interventions, asserting that Tinubu is the divine answer the country has been praying for.
“We will not wait for God to send an angel with wings to fly into Nigeria to fix it. Did I tell you who the angel is? The angel is President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” Bello declared to cheering supporters.
The former governor listed a series of economic and policy reforms introduced by Tinubu as evidence of progress, including the removal of fuel subsidy, student loan schemes, and the floating of the naira. He credited the president with putting more money into the hands of both government and the people, while setting the foundation for long-term growth.
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“Before 2015, we said we wanted a new Nigeria… No subsidy, student loans, a floating exchange rate, and foreign investment flowing in. Today, we are seeing those steps being taken,” Bello said.
While acknowledging that challenges remain, he reminded the audience that no administration can instantly fix problems created over decades.
“It will take a while for anybody to be able to fix it. And Mr President is fixing it—and he will fix it,” he said. “We will support him to fix it.”
Bello also emphasised the importance of legacy in leadership, stating that governance without a lasting impact is “as good as never coming to power.”
“Going into the future—not just the 2027 election or his second term—we want Mr President to leave behind a legacy that well-meaning Nigerians will uphold,” he said. “Leadership without legacy is zero.”
Reflecting on his own time in office, Bello expressed satisfaction with his contributions, calling the rally and his political journey a legacy in itself.
“Today, I am happy. I feel fulfilled. This is my legacy. These are my legacies. Some of my legacies are watching me,” he said, gesturing toward the crowd.
The endorsement comes as the 2027 general elections loom on the political horizon, with President Tinubu widely expected to seek a second term. His administration has garnered both praise and criticism for its sweeping reforms, aimed at overhauling Nigeria’s economy and public sector.