Kogi State governor, Yahaya Bello, has extended his warm congratulations to Ilebaye Odiniya, the winner of the Season 8 Big Brother Naija All-Stars edition reality television show.
The governor, in a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Mohammed Onogwu, on Sunday night, described Ilebaye, a Criminology graduate from Salem University, Lokoja, as a true Trendsetter.
He believed her victory unequivocally confirmed her brilliance, unwavering perseverance, and commendable humility.
The statement qouted Governor Bello as saying that: “I am delighted to congratulate one of our own in Kogi State, Ilebaye Odiniya, for emerging as the winner of the Big Brother Naija Allstars Season reality television show. Ilebaye, you are a Trendsetter who has excelled in both academic and social spheres, and 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.”
Governor Bello, while celebrating Ilebaye’s achievement, also commended the outstanding performance of Kogi youths in various academic and social endeavours. He recalled the 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.
The governor emphasised that both Ilebaye and Oluwabukolami should serve as beacons of inspiration and motivation to other youths, not only in Kogi but across Nigeria.
Governor Bello reassured the citizens of the state that his administration remains committed to supporting and empowering the youth in their pursuit of legitimate aspirations.
“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,” he affirmed.
He concluded by acknowledging Ilebaye as the face of a positive revolution in the history of African entertainment, not only for the youth of Kogi State but for Nigeria, Africa, and the global community.
