Ningi

By Usman Abdullahi Koli, ANIPR 

In a world where leadership is often equated with political roles and public offices, Khalid Barau Ningi stands out as a shining example of selflessness and community dedication. Known widely as “Dujiman Ari,” he showcases the qualities of a true servant-leader, inspiring hope and positively impacting through his personal initiatives that go far beyond his official role as Senior Special Assistant (SSA) on Empowerment to the Bauchi State Government.

Dujiman Ari is a public official from the Ningi Local Government Area (LGA). He is not just a public official; he is a man deeply connected to his roots. His warmth, humility, and respect for individuals—both young and old—have earned him admiration and loyalty. His ability to engage with his contemporaries, especially the youth, proves his understanding of the challenges they face and his determination to be a part of the solution.

His concern for his people goes beyond political affiliations and titles. Through his foundation, the Khalid Community Initiative, he has consistently demonstrated that true leadership is about service, empathy, and action. Among Khalid’s notable contributions is his focus on healthcare. Understanding the importance of maternal health, his foundation recently provided healthcare services and delivery kits to pregnant women across Ningi LGA. These kits, delivered to over 100 beneficiaries and containing essential supplies for safe childbirth, have eased the burdens of many families, ensuring that women have access to better care during one of life’s most critical moments.

Furthermore, during a recent cholera outbreak, the Khalid Community Initiative extended its support by donating over 100 cartons of intravenous fluids to needy patients. In another remarkable healthcare intervention, the initiative funded cataract surgeries for 450 individuals, provided medications worth hundreds of thousands of naira and distributed free eyeglasses to over 100 patients. These efforts reveal Khalid’s commitment to addressing urgent health challenges and improving the quality of life for the underprivileged.

Water is life, and Dujiman knows this all too well. In communities where access to clean water is a daily struggle, the Khalid Community Initiative has taken up the mantle of change. By repairing up to 30 dilapidated boreholes in 10 communities, Khalid has restored the dignity and health of countless families. Women and children no longer have to travel long distances in search of water, a basic necessity many take for granted.

His passion for education is evident in his foundation’s activities. Donations to schools, ranging from learning materials to offering scholarships, have created better learning environments for children. He also recognises the potential of the youth, supporting youth groups with resources and opportunities to thrive. This includes securing JAMB admissions for over 20 students and covering registration fees for more than 30 others across various communities. Such efforts reflect his belief that an educated and empowered youth population is the backbone of any thriving society.

What sets Khalid’s initiatives apart is their all-encompassing approach. Through his foundation, he has supported over 100 small-scale beverage vendors with conditional cash grants of ₦10,000 each to grow their businesses. Similarly, he provided ₦5,000 to 100 women to support domestic needs and small household enterprises. Khalid has also prioritised skill development, offering self-reliance training and tools to empower youths across the Ningi Local Government Area. His work continues to expand, with increased funding and strategic planning to reach even more beneficiaries and address diverse community needs.

Dujiman Ari’s exceptional initiatives are driven more by personal passion than official responsibilities. As the SSA on Empowerment, one might expect his work to focus solely on government-aligned projects. However, Khalid’s gestures go far beyond what is required. His generosity and vision for a better society are rooted in his values, not political obligations. 

Although in his capacity as SSA, he facilitated the distribution of over 1,200 motorcycles to youth in the state under the Kaura Economic and Empowerment Program (KEEP), along with over 70 Sharon buses distributed across 20 LGAs, he has shown an unmatched commitment. His efforts also included providing ₦50,000 to beneficiaries to enhance SMEs, start-up kits for 1,000 beneficiaries, and ₦20,000 cash support for beverage vendors, showcasing his dedication to empowering individuals and small businesses.

Khalid’s work through the Khalid Community Initiative is not just about providing immediate relief; it is about creating sustainable change. His efforts have touched lives in ways that words cannot fully capture. He has become a source of inspiration and a role model for aspiring leaders, proving that true power lies in the ability to uplift others.

As a recipient of the Presidential National Award of Merit on Productivity in 2022 and a chartered management consultant, Khalid Barau Ningi’s story is evidence of the transformative power of one individual’s dedication to their community. It is a reminder that leadership is not defined by titles but by the impact one makes. For those who wish to make a difference, Dujiman’s life and work offer a simple yet profound lesson: serve with your heart, and the world will remember your name.

Usman Abdullahi Koli wrote via mernoukoli@gmail.com.

By Usman Abdullahi Koli, ANIPR

In the rainbows of history, some leaders leave an indelible mark that time can never erase. Alhaji (Dr.) Yunusa Muhammad Danyaya, the revered Emir of Ningi, was one such leader. His influence reached far beyond the borders of his emirate, touching lives with his wisdom, strength, and dedication to his people. His departure marks the end of an era, a monumental loss not just for Ningi but for the entire nation.

Born in 1936, Alhaji Yunusa Muhammad Danyaya was destined for greatness. His educational journey began at Ningi Elementary School and continued through Bauchi Middle School. He later attended the School of Hygiene in Kano and earned a diploma in Public Administration from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. Before ascending the throne in 1978, he made significant contributions to the Ningi Emirate Council, the Medical and Health Department, and other critical roles within the region’s governance.

Ningi Emirate, a land steeped in history and resilience, has long held strategic importance in northern Nigeria. Founded by Islamic scholars who migrated from Tsakuwa in Dawakin Kudu Local Government Area of Kano State, the emirate’s origins are rooted in a principled stand against unjust taxation. Throughout his reign, Emir Yunusa Muhammad Danyaya upheld these principles, ensuring that justice, fairness, and equity remained the foundation of his leadership.

As Emir, Alhaji Yunusa Muhammad Danyaya was a steadfast guardian of tradition and a visionary leader who steered Ningi through an era of transformation and progress. Under his leadership, the emirate witnessed significant development initiatives that significantly improved the quality of life for its people. His reign was a masterful balance of tradition and modernity, preserving Ningi’s rich cultural heritage while driving progress.

The people of Ningi hold their late Emir in the highest esteem, remembering him as a just and fair leader deeply committed to their welfare. His passing leaves a void that will be difficult to fill, but his legacy will continue to inspire and guide future generations. 

We are reminded of the Hausa saying, “Kwari garin jan kaya, kwarin da ba ruwa ya ci mutum, da akwai ruwa da ya ci duniya,” which translates to, “The wasp is known for its resilience, even without water, it can take a man down; with water, it could conquer the world.” This saying, deeply rooted in the spirit of the Ningi Emirate, speaks to the enduring strength and determination that defined Emir Yunusa Muhammad Danyaya’s life. 

Another saying resonates within the emirate: “Ko yaki ya ci Ningi, zai bar Dutse,” meaning “Even if war defeats Ningi, it will leave behind its mountains. ” This demonstrates the resilience that the Emir exemplified throughout his reign.

His journey into royalty began in 1959 when he was turbaned as the District Head and Chiroman Ningi. Over the decades, his leadership was marked by wisdom, courage, and commitment to his people. More than just a ruler, he was a mentor, a guardian of tradition, and a beacon of progress. His reign embodied the resilience and strength of the Ningi Emirate, much like the majestic elephant known for its unyielding spirit.

Alhaji (Dr.) Yunusa Muhammad Danyaya’s legacy will forever be etched in the hearts of those he served. As we mourn his passing, we also celebrate a life dedicated to service, leadership, and the upliftment of his people. His contributions to the Ningi Emirate and to Nigeria will never be forgotten. Though the giant has fallen, his impact will continue to resonate for generations to come.

Usman Abdullahi Koli wrote via mernoukoli@gmail.com.

By Anwar Usman

A Senator representing Bauchi North in Bauchi State, Sen. Abdul Ning said Northern Nigeria needs urgent advice from the Kano emir, Muhammadu Sanusi II, to address numerous obstacles facing the region.

This is contained in a statement by the Emir’s Chief of Staff and Danburan of Kano, Mannir Bayero.

According to the statement, Ningi made the statement while receiving the Emir on a condolence visit at the palace of the late Sarkin Ningi, Inusa Danyaya, who passed away recently.

“Emir Sanusi is a driving force and epitome of knowledge that should be a rallying point if the Northern region is ready to address its problems.

“Every tribe and ethnic groups that are today’s Nigeria is happy and full of thankfulness for the Emir’s contribution to the upliftment of the common man and his leadership style that has been carried out with knowledge and wisdom.”

He added that, “We are full of praises and prayers to the Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II for putting his people first than anything, and also his care and concerns for the growth of Northern Nigeria.

“We have a leader in him that we will rally around to get it right.Ningi reminded all that Northern Nigeria of today is seriously in a quagmire and needs urgent cooperation and unity of its citizens to overcome the challenges bedevilling the region.”

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, CON, led a delegation from the Gombe State government, including the Emir of Gombe, Alhaji Dr. Abubakar Shehu Abubakar III, to Ningi town in Bauchi State to offer condolences following the demise of the Emir of Ningi, Dr. Yunusa Muhammad Danyaya.

In his remarks at the Emir’s palace, Governor Inuwa described the late monarch’s death as a profound loss, not only for the Ningi Emirate and Bauchi State but for the entire northern region and Nigeria as a whole.

Reflecting on the deep ties between his family and the late Emir, as well as the broader relationship between the Ningi Emirate and Gombe State, Governor Inuwa said, “Death has indeed separated us from a father, a guardian, and, to a great extent, a statesman whose monumental loss will be felt across the entire nation. May Allah grant his soul eternal rest in Jannatul Firdaus.”

The Emir of Gombe, Alhaji Dr. Abubakar Shehu Abubakar III, CFR, also spoke, describing the late Ningi Monarch as a foundational figure whose fatherly guidance among community leaders significantly shaped the direction of traditional leadership. He noted that the late Emir Danyaya had been a close ally of the Gombe Emirate for over four decades, dating back to his service as Area Manager with the former Northern State Marketing Board in the late 1970s.

“Emir Danyaya’s death is deeply mourned by the Gombe Emirate and the entire Gombe State community because we have lost a close ally,” Dr. Abubakar added. He also prayed for the repose of the late soul of the late traditional ruler.

Governor Inuwa Yahaya was also at the Bauchi Government House where he extended the condolences of the government and people of Gombe State to Governor Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed over the sad event.

In his response, Governor Bala Mohammed expressed gratitude to his Gombe counterpart for standing with the Ningi Emirate and the Bauchi State Government in this moment of grief.

He praised Governor Inuwa for his capable leadership in managing the affairs of both Gombe State and the Northern States Governors’ Forum.

“We were confident that you would stand with us during this challenging time, and we are not surprised you have come. As our leader across the nineteen northern states, you consistently meet expectations, demonstrating your leadership zeal whenever the need arises.”

The Gombe delegation included the Chief of Staff, Government House, Abubakar Inuwa Kari; Commissioners of Trade, Industry and Tourism and Budget and Economic Planning, Nasiru Mohammed Aliyu, mni, and Salihu Baba Alkali, respectively, among other government functionaries and aides.