Kebbi State

By Muhammad Abubakar

The Governing Council of Federal University Birnin Kebbi (FUBK) has approved the appointment of Barrister Abdulkadir Abubakar as the new Registrar of the University for a five-year term.

The decision was made at the Council’s 29th meeting held on Thursday, May 22, 2025, under the leadership of the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council, Col. Abdulmumini Aminu (Rtd.). The appointment follows the recommendation of the Joint Senate and Council Selection Board.

Barr. Abdulkadir brings to the position 18 years of experience in university administration. He joined FUBK in 2015 as a Senior Assistant Registrar and became Deputy Registrar in 2022. Before this, he served at Kebbi State University of Science and Technology, Aliero, and at the College of Basic and Advanced Studies, Yelwa-Yauri.

A legal practitioner with a Master’s degree in Petroleum Law and Policy from the University of Dundee, UK, Abdulkadir also holds a Bachelor of Law in Common and Islamic Laws from Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto. He was called to the Nigerian Bar in 2009.

Until his recent appointment, he headed the Legal Unit of FUBK and served in various administrative capacities, including TETFund Desk Officer and Assistant Secretary to the Council.

In a related development, the Council also approved the promotion of four academic staff to the rank of Professor and three others to Associate Professor. The newly promoted Professors include Dr. Bello Bala Diggi (Intellectual History), Dr. Mohammed Bashar Danlami (Virology), Dr. Muhammad Muazu Yusuf (Development Economics), and Dr. Yahaya Tajudeen Olarenwaju (Cell Biology and Genetics).

The new Associate Professors are Dr. Halima Muhammad Bande (Business Administration), Dr. Abdullahi Umar (Geography), and Dr. Ali Sherrif Kabara (Accounting).

The appointments of Professors Diggi and Danlami are effective from January 1, 2024, while those of Professors Yusuf and Olarenwaju take effect from January 1, 2025.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini 

Bandits have kidnapped Nafisa Usman, a married woman, from her home in Gayi village, Kalgo Local Government Area of Kebbi State.  

The attackers reportedly invaded her residence around 2:00 a.m. on Friday, broke into her room, and took her away without harming others.  

Family sources said the kidnappers, believed to be herdsmen, are demanding N20 million for her release.  

Alhaji Yahya Kuka, Chairman of Kalgo LGA, condemned the abduction and pledged efforts to secure her safe return.  

The Kebbi State Police Public Relations Officer, Nafiu Abubakar, could not be reached for comment at press time.

By Bilyamin Abdulmumin, PhD

There is much to learn from the politics currently unfolding between the Jega community, their constituency representative, and the Kebbi State government. 

It all began with rising criticism directed at the state government over the glaring lack of infrastructure development in the community. What made the criticism particularly serious was the surprise and visible projects by Hon. Mansur Musa Jega, the National Assembly member representing Jega, Gwandu, and Aliero. Unarguably, since the return of democracy, this constituency has never witnessed such a scale of project delivery. So, unsurprisingly, prayers and praise were poured in from all quarters.

With Senator Muhammad Adamu Aliero of Kebbi Central also delivering notable developments, public frustration quickly turned toward the state government—the governor, the state assembly member, and the local government chairman. During the latest Eid prayer, one fierce Imam echoed the sentiment in his sermon before thousands of faithful. 

In a bold rhetorical salvo, the Imam asked: “Where are the capital projects from the state governor? Or from the local government chairman? Has governance been reduced to merely paying salaries?” 

On the other hand, the Imam turns to the constituency member to invoke Allah’s blessings on him for conspicuous township developments. These prayers were the straw that broke the camel’s back. The video went viral, sending shockwaves through the state government and its supporters.

But then, almost immediately, something interesting happened. Based on the advice, the government mobilised contractors to immediately mark for dualisation one of the busiest roads (leading to the house of the town chief). Behold, performance-based politics (which should have been the case) has given birth. 

One interesting lesson from this development is that a politician’s performance speaks louder and travels faster than any political campaign: A politician’s performance becomes an automatic means of political campaigning. Imagine an Imam on Eid grounds before thousands campaigning for one candidate. That’s the power of visible performance.

Another interesting piece revealed by the saga was the political influence of the population. Jega is among the few local governments in Kebbi State with the highest population, hence one of the most influential politically. The old town forms what would be called a swing state in America for its political dynamism or K states in Nigeria for its sheer number of electorates, so winning it is a sign of success in Kebbi State. A reason why the state governor didn’t joke with the Imam and the electorate’s outcry. This shows that a large population, when strategically mobilised, can become a political asset.

 While delivering constituency projects also depends on what committees a representative belongs to, Mansur still deserves credit because there are allegations of constructors conniving with constituency members to divert billions of naira from constituency projects. 

We criticise politicians when they fail; we should also encourage them when they try.

By Usman Mujtaba Shehu

The National Youth Service Corps scheme idea was to expedite contacts across cultural zones and bridge the cultural gaps, and surmount cultural stereotypes.

Being in an NYSC dress is a dream come true for me. Having visualized how it would feel or how I would look in it about two decades ago, I’m thrilled to experience it finally. When I was younger, I used to wear my father’s NYSC ceremonial shirt. Although it was oversized, the tip reaching my knee sparked my interest in the NYSC program.

The question isn’t just about the dress but about the experience and feeling of being a Corp member. That’s what many people long for. During the registration process, I didn’t encounter many hitches. The main challenge was the duration of my university program, which was prolonged due to the long ASUU strike and the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Apart from these two reasons, all the delays were natural, stemming from the nature of my school’s (ATBU) calendar. The NYSC registration, receiving my call-up number, and anticipating my state of deployment were challenging. I spent 13 hours in the CAFE in the queue waiting to be registered. Additionally, I waited several more hours to receive my call-up number and was eventually deployed to Dakin Gari Orientation Camp in Kebbi State.

When I saw the call-up letter, I was sad, and my mind wandered to the 1-day, almost 12-hour journey ahead. After arriving at Birnin Kebbi, I had to find a taxi to the camp, which was a struggle. It took me 4 hours to get a cab and another 2 hours to reach my destination. I arrived at the camp in the evening, around 5:30 pm. Luckily, the registration queue had been reduced, so I didn’t have to wait.

After checking my bag, I proceeded to the admin block for registration. I discovered my platoon from my state code, which was like a registration number. And from the last digit, I knew I was in platoon 4. I collected my meal ticket, which served as a food ID, and was given a mattress and bed space in the Boys’ Hostel (3).

After settling in, I attended another registration session conducted by the platoon officer. Once completed, I received a set of light-green khaki, the NYSC ceremonial shirt, an orange boot, a white cover shoe, a customized cap, and two pairs of short white trousers and shirts. I felt mixed emotions, reflecting on the future and how it would unfold.

Is it true that the orientation is difficult? In the NYSC Orientation Camp, you feel a sense of belonging regardless of your background or who you are. This is rooted in the NYSC act and the orientation design, which aligns with their motto of “humility and service.” The process is humbling, bringing together people from diverse tribes, such as Yoruba, Hausa, Igbo, Ebra, Tiv, and Fulani.

Religious activities are also accommodated, with three Christian prayer points and one mosque. This allows Corp members to practice their faith without discrimination.

The sense of togetherness is reinforced by the uniform dress code, which includes white shirts and trousers, customized shirts with NYSC alphabets emblazoned on the front, and khaki trousers with boots and customized caps for ceremonies. Trust among Corp members develops quickly as they view themselves as similar or familiar, united by their platoons.

Platoons unite Corp members, and my platoon (platoon 4) leader, a Yoruba from Lagos, exemplified this unity. With 10 platoons, each comprising over 100 Corp members from different states, backgrounds, languages, and cultures, we were united under a shared platoon identity designed by NYSC to foster unity and patriotism.

People tend to trust those within their in-group, and belonging is a primal instinct. When Corp members display attitudes, beliefs, or platoon membership, others tend to like and trust them more. My response to lowering the Nigerian flag every 6:00 pm still amazes me. Every activity would come to a halt when the trumpet was blown.

My new identity became my platoon. I made new friends across all platoons, but Platoon 4 became like family. Competitions were organized to strengthen bonds within platoons. I participated in the football competition and cheered for my platoon in the parade competition, cooking, cultural dance (Edo Dance), and other events.

I attended over 30 lectures and sensitization sessions with my platoon, covering education, health, relocation, finances, and more topics. I only separated from my platoon during the Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) launch. Corp members were allowed to choose their training. I attended and listened to about 30 lectures and sensitization sessions with my platoon. The lectures cover almost all areas, including education, health, relocation, finances, etc.

That was how we were shared with eight different skills Acquisition classes. I chose ICT and learned basic Data analysis and graphic design using pixels.

The orientation is rigorous and tedious. But when I reflect on the whole objective of the NYSC initiative itself, it’s worth it. It’s not a pointless activity but a scheme meant to instil discipline, love of country, and love of one another. As mentioned in the national anthem: ‘Though tribes and tongue may differ, in brotherhood we stand’.

Usman Mujtaba Shehu wrote via usmanmujtabashehu@gmail.com.

By Jamilu Magaji Ambursa

Barely two years after a new political era emerged in Nigeria, Kebbi State has witnessed a remarkable transformation under Comrade Dr. Nasir Idris (Kauran Gwandu). His administration has focused on infrastructural development and prioritised groundbreaking educational reforms, social empowerment and security enhancements. These pivotal changes have redefined the landscape of Kebbi State, positioning it as a model for progressive governance in the country.

Dr. Nasir Idris was declared the winner of the 2023 Kebbi State gubernatorial election by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on April 17, 2023. Before becoming governor, Comrade Dr. Nasir Idris had a distinguished career as a teacher, unionist and politician. He served as the National President of the Nigerian Union of Teachers (NUT) and Deputy President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC). As governor, Kauran Gwandu has focused on various development projects, including infrastructure development, education, healthcare, social empowerment, security and agriculture.

To start with, there is no gainsaying that one of the cornerstones of Kauran Gwandu’s administration has been the extensive focus on infrastructural development. For the first time, Birnin Kebbi has taken its shape as the State capital, witnessing massive unprecedented infrastructural reforms. Major investments have been made in road networks, healthcare facilities, and public utilities, significantly improving access and quality of life for residents.

Notable projects include rehabilitating key highways connecting rural and satellite communities to urban centres, facilitating trade and boosting local economies. Additionally, constructing a modern Motor Park and completing an ultra-modern secretariat would stimulate local economies and provide a conducive atmosphere and access to state-of-the-art facilities for civil servants.

Meanwhile, as a seasoned educationist and labour leader, Kauran Gwandu has recognized the critical role of education in driving sustainable development. His administration has focused on upgrading educational infrastructure, providing training for teachers, and ensuring that schools are equipped with modern learning resources. Steps have been taken to enhance access to quality education for girls and disadvantaged youth, thereby striving for inclusivity. These measures aim to cultivate a new generation of skilled individuals capable of contributing to Kebbi State’s development.

It is evident that the focus on educational reforms has not only boosted enrollment figures but has also significantly enhanced student performance across various educational levels. Kauran Gwandu’s commitment to education showcases his belief that an educated population is crucial for the socio-economic progress of Kebbi State.

The emphasis on training and re-training teachers, a new law raising the retirement age for educators from 60 to 65 years and extending the service limit from 35 to 40 years, along with the recruitment of 2000 new teachers and the awarding of contracts for the construction of four mega schools, underscores this commitment.

Furthermore, another unique aspect of Kauran Gwandu’s administration has been his ability to maintain a harmonious relationship with past governors of Kebbi State. This collaborative spirit has fostered an environment of continuity and shared vision for development. The Governor has been able to leverage the experiences and insights on the forebears while working towards achieving common goals that benefit the entire state. This collaborative governance model has helped streamline various developmental projects and create a unified front for the progress of Kebbi State.

To corroborate this, the Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence, Alh. Sa’ad Abubakar III in his address at the maiden edition of Sheikh Abdullahi Fodio Public Lecture, disclosed that the Sultanate has conferred on Kauran Gwandu the title of Gwarzon Daular Usmaniyya (Knight of the Caliphate) based on recognition of merit, selfless service to humanity and clear demonstration of ability to considerably embraced unity of purpose, fairness, equity and transparency in governance as preached by Sheikh Abdullahi Fodio. The Sultan commended Kauran Gwandu for uniting with all his predecessors for the common interest of the state, involving religious and traditional leaders in governance through consultations, and operating an all-inclusive government.

In the area of social welfare, the administration has placed a strong emphasis on the welfare of Kebbi State citizens. The Governor has initiated various social programs aimed at improving living conditions, particularly for marginalized groups and vulnerable populations. Through microfinance initiatives, skills acquisition programs, and direct aid, many individuals have been empowered to pursue entrepreneurial ventures, thereby reducing poverty levels in the state. The commitment to social welfare reflects a holistic approach to governance, ensuring that economic opportunities are accessible to all.

The healthcare and agricultural sectors have also received the needed impulse. The administration provided medical treatment to patients with mental health problems and related illnesses, renovated general hospitals, and increased entitlements of doctors and nurses. The distribution of palliatives, fertilizers, and solar-powered water pumps to farmers to improve agricultural productivity is also afresh to all discerning individual in the State. These are indelible marks for Kebbi State in the last 18 months. 

In an era where security concerns pose significant challenges across Nigeria, Kauran Gwandu has prioritised the safety of Kebbi State residents. The Governor has taken proactive steps to address the security challenges in the state, particularly in the southern parts. His approach has been both curative and proactive, focusing on strengthening security measures and addressing the root causes of insecurity.

This administration has worked closely with security agencies to implement strategies that address crime and communal conflicts, fostering a safer environment in the State. The unprecedented support given to security agencies, enhanced policing initiatives, and regular security forums has heightened vigilance and encouraged public participation in maintaining peace and order. As a result, the state has seen a reduction in criminal activities, allowing citizens to go about their daily lives with greater peace of mind.

To conclude, let me reiterate that Kauran Gwandu’s transformative leadership has laid a solid foundation for the advancement of Kebbi State. As his administration continues to work towards building a better future for all, Kebbi State stands as a testament to the significant impact of dedicated and visionary governance.

Kauran Gwandu has demonstrated his inclusivity as a driver of a mass socio-political movement and architect of modern-day Kebbi State. He turned the state into an infrastructure development site and remodelled and redefined the political landscape. Therefore, it behoves every well-meaning citizen to support his administration in its determination to deliver democratic dividends to all in the State.

Jamilu Magaji, a public affairs analyst in Birnin Kebbi, can be reached via mjmagaji@gmail.com.

By Bilyamin Abdulmumin, PhD

Whenever I am in my community, I usually go to Kebbi State College of Health Technology, Jega, for computer business services. But suddenly, this Thursday, I encountered violent rioting students, blocking the road with what usually signals tension: burning tyres. When I noticed the school gate ablaze, I realised the situation was out of hand.

Later in the evening, I learned about even more harrowing stories, as the house and vehicles of the school provost, Haruna Saidu-Sauwa, were destroyed beyond imagination. The provost was barely said to have escaped lynching. This is the part of the country where even a peaceful demonstration is culturally and morally avoided, so bringing such riots of this magnitude called for reckoning.

The students reached the breaking point when they felt utterly swindled by the school management. According to some of them who spoke with correspondent of Radio Nigeria Equity FM Birnin Kebbi, they were admitted to study various newly introduced courses for national diploma, boldly indicated by their admission letters. But, unknowing to them, they would be given certificates because their courses were not accredited. What made the matter bitter was spending two years waiting for a ship that never came and the ultimatum to meet the deadline for registration fees or miss the national exam, so through the sweat of their brows, they cough up the 65k examination fee. One student’s story paints the extent of their predicament. According to this student, his father was due for an eye operation, but because of this dateline, the operation had to be delayed.

Penultimate to the incident, the students have been giving excuses, especially by the person they channel their anger the most: the school provost. When one-on-one with him, having exhausted all possible excuses, he allegedly steered up the honest net: “We have nothing to do for you; you can do your worst if you cannot accept certificates (instead of national diplomas). 

Why the student could not settle for state certificates? According to one graduate of the school, only the national diploma gets recognition countrywide, and the state certificate is the lowest pecking order, which is looked down upon even within Kebbi State. When the first set was introduced for employment this year, they were told such certificates didn’t exist.  Thus, one student bore his frustration about this turn of events: the management just wanted, at all costs, to reduce us to roadside hawkers by giving us state certificates.

This turn of events was not all the reason behind the escalation of the matter, just the straw that broke the camel’s back. The school students’ cries have been echoed offline for a long time, and only a few courageous people have taken their cries to social media. The situation of running the school was dire; the light availability, water supply, and environmental sanitation were all allegedly pathetic—these factors, together with the latest lack of accreditation, combined to culminate into the time bomb.

This matter escalated because loyalty wins over competence. Another allegation was that the current provost of the school was chosen over Sadiq Noma, an upright, principled scholar who upholds due process. He was appointed for several days, and even a Walima (eating party) took place to celebrate his appointment. However, the appointment was suddenly terminated in favour of the current provost.

But reading about the predicament of other schools and colleges of health, especially through Dr Muhsin Ibrahim’s posts and the trove of comments that followed them, I realised that the malaise in health colleges in Nigeria is widespread. The sale of admissions has been normalised; benefits for grades are rampant, and now a new layer of irregularity has been introduced: ghost courses.

Health-related courses have the tradition of graduating self-employed students, so unarguably, the reason behind desperation to get admission in such institutions at all costs. Unfortunately, this is the weakness that the officials exploited across the country. Therefore, it is imperative for his excellency, the Kebbi State governor (and, of course, over Nigerian governors) Dr Nasir Idris, as an educationist, to arrest the situation to avoid losing the benefits that come with health-related schools: providing sought-after health staff in the state as well as serving as a source for self-employment.

Bilyamin Abdulmumin, PhD, wrote via bilal4riid13@gmail.com.

By Jamilu Mohammed Magaji

This is to inform the University community and the public that the National Universities Commission (NUC) has accredited 12 undergraduate programmes of the Federal University Birnin Kebbi (FUBK). Out of this number, 11 programmes were fully accredited, while one programme got interim accreditation.

The development is contained in the results of the accreditation exercise conducted by the NUC between November and December, 2023 signed by Ag. Director of Accreditation, Engr. Abraham Chundusu on behalf of the Executive Secretary and issued to the University.

The report disclosed that the accredited programmes cut across Faculties of Arts, Social and Management Sciences, and the Faculty of Science. It also highlighted that while full accreditation status is valid for five years, interim status lasts for two years, after which the programmes would be revisited.

The programmes that secured full accreditation include: Business Administration, History and International Studies, Demogragraphy and Social Statistics, Economics, Political Science and Sociology. The rest are Applied Geophysics, Biochemistry, Computer Science, Mathematics and Statistics. On the other hand, the programme with interim accreditation would be fully accredited in the next two years.

While speaking on the development, the Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof. Muhammad Zaiyan Umar, “expressed delight over the results. He was optimistic that the other programme with interim accreditation would achieve full accreditation in the next two years.”

The Vice Chancellor “expressed gratitude to all stakeholders who participated in the exercise. He thanked the Management of FUBK, Deans, Directors and Heads of Department. He also appreciated staff and students of the University for their support and cooperation which contributed to the success of the exercise.”

FUBK Bulletin reports that the NUC report revealed that “Section 10 (1) of the Education (National Minimum Standard and Establishment of Institutions) Act CAP 3LE3, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004, empowers the NUC to lay down Minimum Academic Standards for all academic programmes taught in Nigerian Universities and also to accredite such programmes.”

“The implementation of the Core Curriculum Minimum Academic Standards (CCMAS) commenced in 2023/2024 academic session. The University is expected to ensure compliance in the utilization of the CCMAS for all programmes.”

By Jamilu Magaji Mohammed

The Kebbi State Deputy Governor, Senator Umar Abubakar Tafida, has commended the Management of the Federal University Birnin-Kebbi (FUBK) for maintaining high academic standards despite many operational challenges. The Deputy Governor made the commendation when the Management of FUBK, led by the Vice Chancellor, Professor Muhammad Zaiyan Umar, paid him a courtesy visit in his Office on Wednesday.

Senator Umar Tafida expressed the State Government’s concern over the problems of transportation, hostel facilities and land disputes affecting the University. He assured that these would be forwarded to the Governor for intervention and solution. He stressed the need for the institution to maintain an open communication channel with the State Government and continue to have cordial relationships with the host community as part of its corporate social responsibility.

Speaking earlier, the Vice Chancellor, Professor Muhammad Zayyanu Umar, told the Deputy Governor that the Federal University, which was set up in 2013, is planning its first Convocation of 5 sets of graduands before the end of this year. 

He said the institution, which has over 8,000 students, 70 per cent of them from Kebbi State, is facing challenges such as an acute shortage of transportation system, hostel facilities, power supply and non-payment of a parcel of land with its host community. He, therefore, appealed to the State Government to support the University towards hosting its very first combined Convocation coming up before the end of the year.

Prof. Umar said inadequate transport is seriously affecting the University, which is located 15 kilometres from Birnin Kebbi township, adding that only four buses jointly donated by Tetfund, Zamfara State Government and former Chief of Army Staff are presently serving the students of the institution.  

The Vice-Chancellor implored the State Government to come to the aid of the University with additional buses,especially now that the rainy season is fast approaching. He also urged the State Government to help in alleviating the 

acute shortage of hostel facilities, as well as interventions on settlement of land disputes with the host community to enable the University to put some development projects in the area. 

Highlights of the visit include the presentation of published materials of the University to the Deputy Governor by the Vice Chancellor and group photography.

By Bilyamin Abdulmumin 

Last Tuesday, the Federal Executive Council approved several development projects. One of these projects is Malando-Wara-Ngaski Road in Kebbi State. Ngaski Local Government hosts GB Foods Africa, Africa’s largest integrated tomato paste processing facility.

Earlier this year, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, represented by Minister of Agriculture Senator Abubakar Kyari, inaugurated the 2,400-tonne GB Foods tomato farm and concentrate factory. The project employed about 2,000 people, and another 5,000 outgrowers were trained and engaged. This is the height of impact that the industry can achieve in a state. 

This project was started during the second term of the industrious visionary leader, the current minister of budget and national planning. The project is now sealed with the firm support of the president and his successor, Dr Nasir Idris. 

The success of this project has gone a long way, vindicating one of my articles. When the Nigerians voted for Tinubu in the last general presidential election, I pointed to the imperative of voting for Dr Nasir Idris to succeed Senator Atiku Bagudu in Kebbi State. Imagine if the opposition party had secured the leadership of Kebbi State; it would have been much more difficult for both leaders to cooperate and much more challenging for the president to champion the project. Political scheming can never be overruled, even in developmental projects.

Another equally significant project undertaken by the former Kebbi State governor is the bioethanol plant. The project is also located in the Kebbi South, Danko/Wasagu local government; the project is even said to be more ambitious than the GB Food, as about 47,000 hectares of cassava are needed to supply the plant. If GB Food needs farmland of only about 1500 hectares to secure 7000 jobs, now do the math to figure out how many jobs the plant that, at full capacity, will require output of 47,000 hectares can create.  

During one of my seminar presentations, a professor decried the government’s lack of commitment to the B10 policy (a policy that envisaged the use of 10 per cent ethanol in petrol). Having the privilege of insider information, as one of the team of my supervisors is a consultant to the policy, I eased the Prof worry, explaining that the policy in Kebbi State is receiving a green light. The pilot plant has already been test run, about 5000 hectares of cassava have been cultivated, and the consultant’s hands are on the desk fishing out final torches of feasibility studies.

The rice revolution was the first industrialisation to be bagged through the Bagudu vision. The minister’s interest in industrialisation coincided with the then federal government’s interest in agriculture, so the appointment of Bagudu as chairman of the presidential task force on rice and wheat production proved to be a success story. Thanks to the mega to small-scale rice processing plants in the state, Kebbi has since become synonymous with rice production in Nigeria. One factor that points to the success of the rice revolution is the improvement of IGR in Kebbi State, which accrued from rice processing activities. When Bola Ahmed Tinubu, a successful business magnate who appeared to identify with competence, saw this uncommon performance, he could not help but delegate the responsibility of the Ministry of Budget and National Planning to the ace economist.

Industrialisation was a fit for purpose and value for money in Kebbi State, as farming was the bedrock economic activity of the state. All these industries rely on the farmers’ output to process their products. GB food processes tomatoes, bioethanol plants use cassava and sugarcane as raw materials, and rice processing plants need paddy rice.   

Nevertheless, dear Minister, while the success of the GB Foods tomato and rice industries can never be overemphasised, similar achievements need to be replicated in the bioethanol sector (the pace of bioethanol development seems to progress slowly), ensuring your continued vision of diversification of Kebbi’s industrial base.

By Bilyamin Abdulmumin

A few days ago, while a friend and I were at a restaurant for breakfast, we had an unexpected encounter with Honourable Mansur Musa Danjamiah, who represents the constituency of the Jega Gwandu Aleiro. Having greeted him, he showed us familiarity to join our table for his breakfast. The challenge he threw on us on why we eat outside and the justification he offered for himself for the same act will be a discussion for another day.

Whenever a giveaway or money politics is discussed, two alpha northern politicians come to my mind: Ahmed Sani Yerima Bakura and Muhammed Adamu Aleiro. From 1999 to 2007, when Yeriman Bakura swayed as Zamfara State governor, he donated everything to the masses. The ‘giveaway’ of Sharia pioneer transcends borders; it did not stop from usual donations of money, houses, cars, food, fertilisers, and Hajj tickets only but other unconventional donations like donkeys, camels, or other domestic animals. Everyone who played the slightest role during Yerima’s tenure talks about this with nostalgia.

However, since playing a significant role in 2011 enthroning his godson, Abdulaziz Yari, Yerima’s political influence in the state has been going southward. He became a caricature of himself, living only at the mercy of the godson.  All the money and the donations splashed have vanished into thin air. Unlike Yerima, Abdulaziz Yari made capital projects his signature throughout the state. You find Shehi capital projects in every nook and cranny of the state.

So, instead of only giving Zamfara fish to eat, Abdulaziz goes beyond by etching his name in gold through developmental projects. Shehi currently commands cult-like followers in the political arena of Zamfara state. This is evidenced in the 2023 general elections when the PDP swept all of Zamfara State but did not affect the water’s rock. This is a profound testament to something remarkable: the looming paradigm shift in the money or giveaway politics.

In another instance, in the build-up to the 2011 general elections, the hostility between Usman Nasamu Dakingari and his godfather Adamu Aleiro reached a climax, with the latter vowing to dethrone the former. However, in a twist of events, the former ousted the latter. The Kebbi State result sends shivers down the spine of Aliero’s camp, sending them all packing.

 What was behind that unpredictable turn of events? Capital projects. It said if you want to challenge Dakingari, show him a problematic project. Dakingari took infrastructure development head-on. Unlike Abdulaziz, who combined both money and projects in politics, Dakingari maintained a fisted hand; because of this, as a Fulani, he was even bantered during his tenure by being a committed Fulani nomad, ready to pursue with a symbolic stick anyone dares to come closer to Kebbi state treasure. Despite that, he pushed over all his opposition because of the widespread infrastructure developments.

Fast forward to the present, Adamu Aleiro (PDP) was fortunate to turn the tide. As the past chairman of work and present chairman of Land Transport committees in the red chamber, Senator Adamu Aleiro has been unleashing capital projects in Kebbi Central. This feat has endeared him to the people of Kebbi State like never before. This is evidenced in the 2023 general election, where he not only won the senate ticket against the sitting governor, but the majority of his loyalists did. Several local governments in Kebbi Central, like Jega and Aliero, can be described as work in progress because several main roads have been at different levels of completion.

Honourable Mansur Musa Danjamiah (PDP), who won a surprise victory in 2023 to unseat the sitting representative, has also recognised this paradigm shift. He has followed Muhammad Adamu Aleiro’s footsteps by focusing on capital projects. People were saying that Mansur Musa had uncovered the ‘mismanagement’  of all the previous representatives because no one had thought a House of Rep could deliver such capital projects.

With the current trajectory that Danjami’ah and Aleiro are following – prioritising capital projects, there is no end in sight for their flourishing political careers. To other politicians, it’s time to wake up and smell the coffee. The tide is changing, and the era of money-driven politics may be giving way to a new paradigm.