The Kebbi State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to youth development, talent discovery and innovation following the international recognition of Bello Muhammad by Guinness World Records for riding the tallest bicycle unsupported, measuring 2.9 metres (9 feet 5 inches).
The achievement represents a significant milestone for Kebbi State, showcasing the creativity, ingenuity and exceptional abilities of its young people while highlighting the importance of creating opportunities for them to develop their talents and achieve recognition on the global stage.
Presenting the Guinness World Records certificate to the state government, the Patron of the Equity Cyclists Association, Abubakar Bagudu Dallatun Kalgo, attributed the accomplishment to Governor Nasir Idris’ commitment to youth development and his administration’s support for initiatives that empower young people to discover, develop and showcase their talents.
He explained that Bello Muhammad, a student associated with the organisation, had demonstrated exceptional abilities in several areas, including electronics, technology and design, in addition to his outstanding cycling achievement.
According to him, the recognition was not secured through lobbying but followed the discovery and promotion of Bello’s exceptional talent through social media and other media platforms, which helped bring his accomplishment to wider public attention.
“There was no lobbying involved.
“His talent was discovered through social media and other media platforms, which reportedly reached an audience of about two million followers and helped bring his achievement to international attention.
“We, however, acknowledge the enabling environment provided by Governor of Kebbi State, Comrade Dr. Nasir Idris, whose passion and commitment to youth development continue to encourage young people to become self-reliant and realise their potential,” he said.
Responding to the presentation, Governor Nasir Idris, who was represented by the Head of Service, Mallami Shekare, mni, congratulated Bello Muhammad on his remarkable accomplishment, describing it as a demonstration of the ingenuity, determination and resourcefulness of Kebbi youths.
The Governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to supporting young people who demonstrate dedication to developing their talents, acquiring useful skills and contributing meaningfully to the social and economic advancement of the state.
He encouraged youths across Kebbi to embrace creativity, innovation, technical skills and entrepreneurship as practical pathways to self-reliance, personal fulfilment and economic growth.
As part of the government’s support for youth development, the Head of Service donated N1 million to the Equity Cyclists Association to strengthen its activities and encourage its continued efforts to identify, nurture and promote talented young people across the state.
He expressed confidence that the financial support would enhance the association’s capacity to fulfil its objectives, expand its activities and contribute more effectively to youth empowerment and talent development in Kebbi State.
The Commissioner for Information and Culture, Yakubu Ahmed-BK, also commended the achievement, describing it as a significant accomplishment that had brought honour and positive international recognition to Kebbi State.
He noted that the feat demonstrated the importance of encouraging young people to develop their abilities and pursue their ambitions, adding that achievements of this nature help showcase the talent and potential of Kebbi indigenes to the wider world.
Earlier, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Youth and Sports Development, Alhaji Buhari Mohammed Wara, who represented the Commissioner for Youths and Sports, commended the association for its efforts in identifying and promoting young talent.
He also congratulated Bello Muhammad on the achievement, praising his determination, creativity and exceptional ability.
The Permanent Secretary reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to promoting sports and other youth-focused initiatives, noting that sustained support for talent development would create more opportunities for young people to excel and contribute to the development of the state.
Bello Muhammad’s Guinness World Records recognition underscores the importance of investing in young people, supporting innovative initiatives and providing platforms through which exceptional talents can be discovered and developed.
The achievement also reinforces the potential of Kebbi youths to earn national and international recognition through creativity, discipline, technical ingenuity and determination, while strengthening the state’s profile as a place where young people can aspire to achieve excellence.
