Salifu Joel Oyibo – Deputy Governor of Kogi State and Former Educator

Career as an Educator
Before becoming Deputy Governor, Salifu Joel Oyibo worked as a teacher.

His experience in the education sector gave him exposure to issues involving teachers, students, communities and public institutions.

The Kogi State Government has also described his background as a teacher and union leader in connection with his later appointment to the state's Human Capital Development Council.

His experience in education has remained relevant to his public engagements, particularly on issues involving teachers, education and human capital development.

Political Career
Salifu Joel Oyibo became more prominent in Kogi State politics before the 2023 governorship election.

In 2023, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo selected him as his running mate on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The Ododo–Salifu ticket subsequently won the Kogi State governorship election, and Salifu assumed office as Deputy Governor on January 27, 2024. He succeeded Edward Onoja, who had served as Deputy Governor during the preceding administration.

Deputy Governor of Kogi State
As Deputy Governor, Salifu Joel Oyibo serves as the second-ranking member of the Kogi State executive branch.

His responsibilities include supporting the Governor in the administration of the state, representing the government at official events and participating in government programmes and policy activities.

He has also represented Governor Ododo and the state government at events involving education, youth development, traditional institutions, community organisations and other sectors.

In December 2024, for example, he addressed teachers and community members in Ejule and spoke about the role of government in serving the people.

Human Capital Development Council
In November 2024, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo appointed Salifu Joel Oyibo as Chairman of the Kogi State Human Capital Development Council (HCDC).

The council is concerned with human capital development, including areas such as education, health, skills development and the development of the state's workforce.

The Kogi State Government said his appointment was connected to his background as a teacher and union leader and the administration's focus on using human capital development as a driver of economic growth.

Community Engagement
Salifu has maintained connections with communities in Ofu and other parts of Kogi State during his tenure as Deputy Governor.

In May 2026, the Ofu Local Government Traditional Council and sons and daughters of Ofu organised a reception in his honour in Ejule. The event brought together traditional rulers, community members and political stakeholders.

In August 2026, he was also conferred with the traditional title Ogah-Achadu Oko Attah by the Achadu Oko Attah traditional institution in Idah. The News Agency of Nigeria reported that the traditional institution described the honour as recognition of his contributions and commitment to his people and Kogi State.