Usman Ododo Clinches Best Governor Award in Human Capital Development

RYNI News : By Omotayo Stephen . O
24 July 2025

In a moment that marks a turning point for governance in Northern Nigeria, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo of Kogi State was awarded the prestigious title of “Governor of the Year in Human Capital Development” at the 2025 Blueprint Impact Award Series, held in Abuja on Tuesday, July 22.

The award, conferred by Blueprint Newspapers, recognised the Governor’s bold and data-driven reforms that have placed Kogi at the forefront of human capital development in Nigeria. Receiving the award on behalf of the Governor, Hon. Ismaila Isah, Special Adviser on Media, described it as a “testament to leadership that puts people first.”

In just over a year in office, Governor Ododo has radically shifted the trajectory of the state through targeted investments in education and healthcare. His administration’s commitment of ₦1 billion to cover public students’ external examination fees has led to a staggering increase in school enrolment and retention—earning Kogi the lowest out-of-school children rate in the entire northern region, as confirmed by recent national statistics.

“This recognition goes beyond the individual—it reflects the collective vision of an administration that believes human capital is our greatest asset,” Hon. Isah stated. “The Governor’s policy direction is not only bold but measurable, and this award reflects the results.”

But it doesn’t end in the classroom. Governor Ododo’s government is also revitalizing over 300 primary healthcare centres across Kogi’s 21 local governments, ensuring that the state’s most vulnerable populations have access to essential health services. This simultaneous investment in health and education is shaping what experts are calling a new model of integrated development in sub-national governance.

The Blueprint Impact Award Series is one of Nigeria’s most respected governance recognitions, honouring public officials who demonstrate exceptional leadership and tangible achievements in nation-building.

According to the organisers, Governor Ododo’s approach stands out for its clarity, consistency, and community impact. “Kogi State has become a beacon of what is possible when leadership is rooted in compassion and strategy,” the award citation noted.

As dignitaries applauded at the award gala in Abuja, a new narrative for Northern Nigeria was being quietly written — one in which data-backed policy, inclusive development, and visionary leadership are no longer aspirations, but realities.

With the wind at his back and a state inspired by progress, Governor Ododo is proving that real leadership is measured not in promises, but in lives transformed.

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