Former Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, has urged Nigeria’s newly appointed Ambassador to the State of Kuwait, Dr. Sanusi Abubakar Gamji, to use his diplomatic posting to deepen bilateral relations and attract investments that will boost Nigeria’s economy.
Bello made the call during a send-off ceremony organised in honour of Dr. Gamji ahead of his departure for Kuwait.
He described the ambassador as a seasoned administrator and accomplished diplomat whose integrity, experience and dedication to national service would enable him to represent Nigeria creditably.
The former governor also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for appointing Dr. Gamji, saying the choice reflects the administration’s commitment to entrusting strategic national assignments to competent individuals.
Expressing confidence in the envoy’s capacity, Bello said Dr. Gamji would justify the confidence reposed in him by promoting Nigeria’s interests and strengthening diplomatic and economic cooperation between both countries.
He urged the ambassador to prioritise attracting foreign investments, expanding trade opportunities and building partnerships capable of creating jobs and stimulating economic development.
According to Bello, diplomatic missions should serve not only as platforms for political representation but also as vehicles for economic growth and international collaboration.
The former governor further praised the administration of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo for sustaining peace, inclusive governance and development across Kogi State.
He also paid tribute to the late former Governor, Prince Abubakar Audu, describing him as a visionary leader whose contributions laid the foundation for the growth of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kogi State.
Bello noted that the unity currently enjoyed in the state, reflected in the “EBIGO” mantra, was a testament to the enduring vision of peaceful coexistence and urged residents to remain united against divisive tendencies capable of undermining the state’s progress.
Responding, Dr. Gamji thanked President Tinubu for the confidence reposed in him and pledged to discharge his responsibilities with dedication, integrity and patriotism.
He assured Nigerians that he would work to strengthen diplomatic relations between Nigeria and Kuwait while promoting the country’s economic interests abroad.
The ambassador also commended the unity displayed by Kogi stakeholders at the event, describing it as a strong indication of solidarity across the state’s three senatorial districts.
Dr. Gamji further pledged to collaborate with relevant authorities, including the Minister of Steel Development, Prince Shaibu Abubakar Audu, towards supporting efforts aimed at the revival of the Ajaokuta Steel Company.
The ceremony was attended by several prominent personalities, including Kogi State Deputy Governor, Comrade Joel Oyibo Salifu, who represented Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo; Minister of Steel Development, Prince Shaibu Abubakar Audu; Rt. Hon. James Abiodun Faleke; Senator Abubakar Sadiq Ohere; the Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, Dr. Tijani Ahmed Muhammed Anaje, as well as political leaders, traditional rulers, business executives and other stakeholders.
