Former Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, has urged Nigeria’s newly appointed Ambassador to Kuwait, Dr Sanusi Abubakar Gamji, to prioritize investment attraction and stronger bilateral relations as he prepares to resume his diplomatic posting.
Bello spoke on Saturday at a send-off ceremony organised in honour of Gamji, describing him as an exceptional diplomat whose experience, integrity and commitment to national service would reflect well on both Kogi State and Nigeria during his tenure.
The former governor commended President Bola Tinubu for the appointment, saying it demonstrated the administration’s readiness to deploy capable Nigerians to strategic global positions in furtherance of the country’s interests.
“I have no doubt that Dr Gamji will justify the confidence placed in him and serve Nigeria with honour, dignity and patriotism,” Bello said, charging the envoy to look beyond ceremonial representation and use the office to build partnerships that yield concrete economic benefits.
He expressed confidence that Gamji’s business background and wide network would help him attract investors and strengthen trade and economic cooperation between Nigeria and Kuwait.
Bello also praised the current Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, for sustaining development and inclusive governance in the state, and paid tribute to the late Prince Abubakar Audu, whom he credited with laying the foundation for the growth of the All Progressives Congress, APC, in Kogi.
He said the unity currently on display in the state, captured under the “EBIGO” mantra, was evident in the turnout of dignitaries from all three senatorial districts for the event, and called on residents to guard against divisive forces working against the peace the state had built over the years.
Responding, Ambassador Gamji thanked those present for the honour, describing the gathering as proof of unity across the state’s senatorial zones. He pledged to serve with dedication and integrity, and to work at strengthening Nigeria–Kuwait relations.
He further disclosed plans to collaborate with the Minister of Steel Development, Prince Shaibu Abubakar Audu, toward the reactivation of the Ajaokuta Steel Company.
The ceremony was attended by dignitaries including Kogi State Deputy Governor, Comrade Joel Oyibo Salifu, representing Governor Ododo; the Minister of Steel Development, Prince Shaibu Abubakar Audu; Rt Hon. James Abiodun Faleke; Barr. Eke Audu; Hon. Ibrahim Adoga; Senator Abubakar Sadiq Ohere; the Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, Dr Tijani Ahmed Muhammed Anaje; and other political, traditional and business leaders from across Kogi State.
