Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo (born February 7, 1982) is a Nigerian accountant and politician who is the governor-elect of Kogi State. He is a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Usman Ododo is a distinguished Nigerian politician renowned for his robust leadership skills. He emerged victorious in the Kogi State governorship election held on November 11, 2023. With a foundation in political science and public administration, he previously served as the state’s Auditor-General for Local Governments. Beyond his political endeavors, he is recognized as a humanitarian, devoted family man, visionary, and a remarkable leader.
Usman Ododo Biography: Early Life and Education
Usman Ododo was born on February 7, 1982, in Kogi State, Nigeria, hailing from the Ebira ethnic group, a prominent community within the state.
Usman Ododo, from a privileged family background, felt an inherent calling to serve his people and contribute to his country’s progress. His mother, Hajiya Fatima Ododo, stood as a respected educator and philanthropist, while his father, Alhaji Ahmed Ododo, was a renowned businessman and community influencer.
Growing up in affluence, Ododo received an exceptional education from an early age. He attended the Federal Government College in Okene for his secondary schooling, where he excelled academically and socially. Notably, he served as the school’s head boy and actively engaged in diverse extracurricular pursuits such as debating, sports, and drama.
His educational journey continued at Nigeria’s esteemed Ahmadu Bello University in Zaria, where he obtained a bachelor’s degree in political science in 2004. Subsequently, he earned a master’s degree in public administration from the same institution in 2008. Currently, he remains engaged in his pursuit of a doctoral degree in political science at the University of Abuja.
Career
Throughout his career, Ododo effectively utilized his academic background. He occupied several pivotal political positions, including roles as Chairman of the Kogi State Youth Council, Special Assistant to the Governor, and Member of the Nigerian Youth Parliament. Through these roles, he gained profound insight into the challenges confronting his state and the nation, refining his strategic prowess and knack for fostering unity to achieve collective objectives.
Regarded as an emerging political luminary in Nigeria, Ododo’s ascent to prominence began with his appointment as the Auditor-General for Local Governments in Kogi State in 2019 under Governor Yahaya Bello’s administration. Serving in this capacity until 2023, he took charge of ensuring transparency, accountability, and efficiency in managing public funds at the local government level. His resignation in 2023 signified his decision to pursue his gubernatorial aspirations.
During the November 2023 elections, he vied for the governorship seat in Kogi State under the APC platform. Following the November 11 election, INEC declared him the victor, surpassing opponents Dino Melaye of PDP and Alake of SDP.
Personal Life
Ododo is joyfully married to Aisha Ododo, an accomplished professional and dedicated partner. Their three wonderful children, comprising a daughter and two sons, bring immense joy and radiance into their lives. Ododo cherishes his role as a loving husband and father, finding delight in spending quality time with his family. He dutifully fulfills his religious obligations, devotedly following the teachings of his cherished Islamic faith.
Net Worth
Ododo is a successful and established politician who has amassed significant wealth through diverse ventures. His investments span across various industries such as real estate, agriculture, and hospitality, resulting in numerous assets and properties both within Nigeria and abroad. While he enjoys luxury cars and a lavish lifestyle, he maintains an unassuming and modest demeanor, not characterized by ostentation or extravagance.
Notably, he channels his wealth toward charitable causes, displaying humility and a genuine commitment to philanthropy. His estimated net worth is believed to be around $10 million.
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