Former Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, has praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for having "good plans" for Nigerians, urging patience and support for the administration's reforms amid ongoing economic challenges. Bello made the remarks on January 3, 2026, after participating in the All Progressives Congress (APC) electronic membership registration exercise in the state, describing the initiative as a vital tool for strengthening party cohesion and linking members directly to government empowerment programs.
The Kogi State chapter of the APC commenced the nationwide e-registration drive on Monday, December 29, 2025, in compliance with directives from the party's national headquarters. The exercise was flagged off by current Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo at his Upogoro Ward in Okene Local Government Area. Bello was electronically registered on Friday at his Agasa Ward in Okene, during an event that drew a large turnout of party loyalists, including the state APC Chairman, Hon. Abdullahi Bello.
Speaking after his registration, Bello commended the turnout and described the exercise as "timely and commendable," noting it would foster internal unity and better engagement between the party and members. "Let me commend everyone for turning out for this exercise today, and I want to assure you that our leader and president, Bola Tinubu, has good plans for the people of this great nation and he will continue to do more for the people," Bello said.
He highlighted the requirement for National Identification Numbers (NIN) in the process, explaining it enables direct linkage to party leadership for empowerment and benefits without intermediaries. "The requirement of the National Identification Number in the e-registration process shows that members are directly linked to the party leadership and can be reached without intermediaries for empowerment and other benefits, and I urge you to encourage members of your families to participate in this exercise," he added, urging active involvement to connect registered members to interventions under the Renewed Hope agenda.
Bello called on party faithful to approach future elections seriously, asserting that the APC remains the dominant force in Kogi State. Acknowledging that development often involves challenges, he appealed for patience with Tinubu's reforms, which he portrayed as geared toward long-term national progress. Bello expressed gratitude to stakeholders, commending the state executive, local government chairmen, grassroots leaders, and supporters for their loyalty.
Earlier, state APC Chairman Abdullahi Bello announced that the e-registration would extend across all 21 local government areas following the symbolic registrations of the governor and former governor. He appealed for cooperation to complete the exercise within the national timeline.
The nationwide APC e-registration, requiring NIN for verification, aims to digitize membership records, eliminate duplicates, and enhance data accuracy for better mobilization and resource allocation. In Kogi, a stronghold for the APC, the drive is seen as consolidating grassroots support ahead of future polls.
Bello's endorsement reflects his continued influence in Kogi politics despite ongoing legal scrutiny over alleged financial misconduct during his tenure. As a key Tinubu ally, his public backing reinforces party unity amid national economic debates.
The exercise underscores the APC's digital transformation efforts, with similar launches in other states like Sokoto and Ondo. Party leaders view it as crucial for sustaining momentum from recent electoral successes.
In Kogi, high turnout at flagship events signals enthusiasm, with officials optimistic about massive participation. The NIN integration is praised for transparency, potentially streamlining access to federal programs.
Bello's call for patience addresses widespread concerns over inflation, fuel subsidy removal, and currency fluctuations under Tinubu's administration. Supporters argue reforms lay foundations for growth, while critics demand faster relief.
As registration continues, the APC positions itself as the vehicle for Tinubu's vision, with Bello's remarks amplifying messages of hope and direct beneficiary linkage.
This development highlights internal party strengthening in key states like Kogi, where APC dominance has persisted through successive administrations.
The e-registration's emphasis on verifiable identity aims to build a robust database, facilitating targeted outreach and reducing ghost memberships that plagued past records. In a state with vibrant political activity, the exercise energizes the base, preparing for potential by-elections or local contests.
Bello, who handed over to Ododo in January 2024 after two terms, remains a pivotal figure, often mobilizing support for national leadership. His presence at the event symbolized continuity and solidarity within the party's Kogi structure.
Chairman Abdullahi Bello's coordination ensures seamless rollout, with teams deployed to wards for accessibility, including rural areas. Mobile units and online options complement physical centers to maximize inclusion.
The APC national leadership, under Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje, champions the initiative as modernizing party administration, aligning with broader digital governance trends.
As Nigeria navigates economic recovery, party platforms like this serve dual purposes: organizational renewal and political messaging. Bello's assurance of Tinubu's "good plans" seeks to rally loyalty amid subsidy pains and cost-of-living pressures.
Stakeholders anticipate increased membership, strengthening APC's electoral machinery. The exercise's success in Kogi could model best practices for other chapters.
Ultimately, this launch reinforces the ruling party's commitment to grassroots engagement, positioning it for sustained relevance in Nigeria's dynamic political landscape.
