Opinion
Garba Shehu @60: Destined for the top
Ali M. Ali
Let me wish my mentor, Malam Garba Shehu, media aide to President Muhammadu Buhari a happy birthday as he turns 60 on November 27. I doubt, very much, if there would be any fanfare to mark this milestone. 10 years ago, when he turned fifty 50, to my knowledge, there wasn’t any beating of drums to mark his entry into the “golden” club, at least, not in the public space. I am not too sure this time, it would be any different.
Certainly three “scores” is momentous. I pray to Almighty Allah (SWT) to increase him in good health and wisdom.
To many people, Shehu is just another “spokesman”. This, indeed, has been his main turf in the last twenty years or so. Before his foray into the difficult terrain of Public Relations and managing the image of politicians these past two decades, he had been a brilliant journalist, media manager and communications teacher. Long before he spoke for Atiku Abubakar and now President Buhari, he had been the image maker of Aluminum Smelter Company (ALSCON) in the twilight of the 90s.
Further back in history, he was once a reporter with the NTA before crossing over to the Triumph newspapers in kano, his home state, where he was, at various times, editor of all the titles before exiting as Managing Director /Editor -in-Chief around 1998 at 39 or there about.
Visionary Media Manager
Shehu was destined for the top in his chosen path, which is journalism and PR. He made marks in both fields. As a newspaper editor and media manager, he was brilliant and a visionary.He had a keen eye for both talents and details. Thanks to his vision, he constituted a world class editorial Board whose membership was drawn from the academia, the intelligentsia, the business community and top notch technocrats.
The Board used to meet every Monday. I was the youngest member. It had my former college principal, the no nonsense Ado Gwaram. There was also Malam Ibrahim Muazzam of the political science department of Bayero University (BUK) and Marxist Ibrahim Bello Kano of English department. Foremost economist, Kassim Musa Bichi, Dr Hafiz Wali, former DG of National Teachers Institute (NTI), Nuuman Habib, sociologist and journalist and a host of others.
I christened the weekly rendezvous the “Monday School”. I learned more and developed the confidence to engage even my tutors without being disrespectful.
Shehu also helped recruit or head hunt young promising reporters regardless of creed or status. In the newsroom of the Triumph, wholly owned by government of Kano state were Nigerians from across cultures.There were many voices on the editorial board and the newsroom but Shehu was able to “distill” the tower of babel and produce a paper whose views were respected and its stories often quoted by foreign media. I recall one instance when I was the News editor; the coverage of the June 12, 1993 debacle that earned the paper rave reviews by the Lanre Idowu edited Media Review Magazine. Other times, the BBC and VOA will quote stories from the Triumph as their trusted reference. As government paper under military regime, Shehu found a way of telling truth to power without appearing belligerent.
One day in 1994,the then Commissioner of Information late Bashir Karaye accompanied a visiting military governor of the neighboring state of Katsina. After a tour of the company, the visitors sat down for a chat and as unit heads, we all had a question or two to ask but the Commissioner was throwing his weight trying to control the flow until Shehu stamped his feet on the ground and made it clear that it was “our show”. The visitor backed down.
Shehu was “encyclopedic”. No subject was Greek to him. Politics, Economics, Sports, Entertainment, you name it, Shehu was at home discussing. I have seen him engage intellectual power houses at close quarters. In 1991, I was nominated to attend a workshop organized by the Centre of Democratic Studies (CDS) in conjunction with the Nigeria Guild of Editors (NGE). I was still wet behind the ears. Alhaji Wada Maida was then the President of the Guild.I saw Shehu taking on Late Professor Omu Omoruiyi, the Director -General (DG) to task throwing up different alternatives and postulating different theories concerning the Transition Programme of the administration at the time.
Not a Gerontocracy
In between running a newspaper with a few hot heads like me, he found time to teach undergraduate and post graduate courses in the Mass Communications department of BUK. In my formative years in journalism, Shehu taught me many lessons in management .I learned from him early that knowledge is power and it’s the best guarantor to ascend the ladder. Once, during the general staff meeting, he pointedly said that “ability” not seniority in age was the consideration in promotion.
“This is not gerontocracy” he said and rested the contrived agitation in the company that “greenhorns” were becoming line editors.
Shehu matured early. He became Managing Director of the Triumph at 33 and President of the Guild of Editors at thirty seven 37. Clearly he was gifted. He had a way with people. He is quick witted, always ready with a sharp one liner. Among his peers, when excited, he has a patented throaty laughter. Among his subordinates, he projects a tough exterior but deep down he really is a nice guy. Once, he assembled all of us in editorial management and chastised us for being “too nice”. The title editors were quiet. But not hot headed me who retorted “you are the nicest of them all”. He challenged me to give an instance and I did. The following week, a reporter did the unthinkable-he assaulted his unit head after being queried for dereliction of duties. He was dismissed at the recommendation of a disciplinary committee.
Shehu and I
I met Shehu 30 years ago. I didn’t know him from Adam. He was then editor of the TRIUMPH. It was a chance meeting. One day, I accompanied a classmate Abdullahi Mohammed Doki to see a relative of his, called Muktar Magaji who had taken up a job there, a year earlier. Magaji was a brilliant student of Mass Communications. He was editor of the campus newspaper at the time called Bayero Beacon. The dream of every Communication undergraduate was to edit the Beacon back in the day.
On the way out, we bumped into Shehu in the corridor apparently on a mission. There was a hurried introduction by Magaji. Shehu acknowledged without breaking his pace as he headed upstairs probably to meet with the Managing Director.
A year later, I came looking for a job. Armed with nothing but my NYSC discharge certificate and photo copies of a couple of published articles in especially the Guardian and the Sunday Triumph, Magaji convinced me to meet with Shehu. I did. It was very brief. All he asked was if I had “written” any articles in the past. He took a bird’s eye view of my “prized” article in the Guardian on Sunday when Amma Ogan was editor under the weekly “Campus Experience” column. I think that helped made up his mind to persuade Management to give me an offer.
In the mid-80s, getting published in the Guardian as a student was huge. In the whole of Bayero University, only a few of us were that lucky to have met the high linguistic standards of the Guardian. There was a taciturn guy called Ibrahim Mohammed Sheme who blazed the trail in writing for the Guardian. He got paid the princely sum of N100. I followed suit.
From that moment, Shehu ran from pillar to post until I got the job despite a suffocating embargo on employment nationwide by the military regime of General Ibrahim Babangida.
Within weeks, I was employed as Features Writer and member of the editorial board, thus began my career as a reporter with Shehu as my mentor.
Before I left the Triumph, I had been everything except Managing Director. I edited the Weekly broad sheet Sunday paper intermittently for five years, removed thrice by the powers that be. The first time was by Shehu himself. At the time, I heard later, I was still not ripe to be editor. I was 29.
Years later, after my sojourn as the pioneer Group Politics editor of Daily Independent, ThisDay both in Lagos and Editor of Abuja based Leadership newspaper, Shehu came looking for me to head the management of Peoples Daily. He convinced me that I had what it took to run it. I was Chief Operating officer for a record six years.
The Triumph of the 80s and early 90s produced brilliant journalists like Kabiru Yusuf Chairman of Daily Trust, late Rufai Ibrahim, the only northerner to edit the Guardian, Saleh Mari Maina, the first editor of Thisday,Sani Zorro, who was an editor in African Concord International Magazine, Late Hajiya Bilkisu Yusuf and several others.
Once again, happy birthday sir! May your days be long. Thank you. We are here because you were there!
Ali M. Ali writes from 1st Avenue, Gwarinpa, Abuja
Ruqayyah Hamidu Muhammad PhD
The behind the scenes battle between the two prominent political figures of Kano state is affecting the political progress of the state and the entire northern region. The ongoing conflict in Kano State is more than a local issue; it is a matter of significant concern for the political progress and unity of the entire northern region of Nigeria. This rivalry has deep implications for governance, development, and regional solidarity. I am deeply shocked that we still have millions of sane individuals that support and encourage such attitude, let me open your eyes to the consequences of this battle, perhaps you see things differently and unite against it;
1. Undermining Governance in Kano State
Kano State, as a political and economic hub in Northern Nigeria, plays a pivotal role in the region’s progress. A divided leadership in Kano has severe consequences:
Distracted Leadership: Instead of focusing on policies and programs that benefit the people, resources and energy are being diverted toward political squabbles.
Delayed Development: Political instability creates a vacuum in decision-making, stalling critical infrastructure projects, economic initiatives, and social welfare programs.
Administrative Paralysis: Rivalries often lead to factionalism within government institutions, causing inefficiency and lack of coordination in service delivery.
2. Weakening Northern Political Unity
The northern region has traditionally relied on unity and consensus-building to maintain political influence in Nigeria. This rivalry is fracturing that cohesion and creating vacuums.
Factions and Divisions: The clash between the prominent political leaders polarizes supporters within Kano and across the north, creating camps that weaken the collective bargaining power of the region.
Loss of Regional Focus: Instead of collaborating to tackle shared issues such as insecurity, poverty, and youth unemployment, almajiranci, street begging, leaders are consumed by intra-party or inter-party conflicts.
3. Negative Perception of Northern Politics
These conflicts project a negative image of northern politics at the national and even international levels.
Leadership Crisis: Persistent fighting portrays northern leadership as disorganized and more interested in personal power than public welfare.
Reduced Influence: National political stakeholders may view the north as politically unstable, leading to reduced confidence in the region’s ability to present a united front.
Public Disillusionment: Ordinary citizens may lose faith in the political process, seeing it as a game of ego and personal ambition rather than a means to address societal challenges or issues
4. Impact on the Region’s Developmental Agenda
Kano’s position as a leader in commerce, culture, and population means its political health directly affects the broader northern region.
Economic Repercussions: Political unrest in Kano disrupts trade, investment, and business activities, which are critical for the northern economy.
Policy Inconsistency: Frequent political changes or standoffs can lead to abrupt shifts in policies, discouraging long-term development initiatives resulting in huge economics loses.
Stalled Regional Projects: Projects that require regional collaboration such as those in agriculture, education, and transportation may be delayed or abandoned due to lack of coordination.
5. Insecurity and Social Fragmentation
Political instability often exacerbates existing challenges, including insecurity:
Rise in Violence: Political feuds can trigger violent clashes between supporters, leading to loss of lives and property, further destabilizing the region.
Exploitation by Insurgents: Groups like Boko Haram and bandits exploit political disunity and weak governance to expand their influence in the region.
Ethno-Religious Tensions: The conflict may deepen existing ethno-religious divides, as politicians use identity-based rhetoric to mobilize support, leading to long-term social fragmentation.
6. Erosion of Political Ideals
One of the most damaging effects of this rivalry is the erosion of political ideals in the north:
Focus on Personal Agendas: The rivalry overshadows ideological debates and policy-driven leadership, reducing politics to a contest of personalities.
Youth Disenchantment: Young people in the north may become disillusioned with politics, seeing it as a tool for personal enrichment rather than societal progress.
Diminished Legacy: The contributions of Kano’s historical political leaders, who prioritized unity and development, are undermined by the current discord.
7. Spillover Effects Across the Northern Region
The instability in Kano has a ripple effect on the entire northern region’s politics and progress:
Divisive Influence: The rivalry may spill over into other states, encouraging similar conflicts among leaders who are aligned with either of the two factions.
Weakening of Political Alliances: Regional political blocs, such as those formed during elections, may lose their effectiveness due to infighting and loss of trust.
National Implications: The north’s reduced influence on the national stage could lead to diminished representation and marginalization in key decision-making processes.
Recommendations for Resolving the Conflict
To address the negative impacts of these conflicts and restore political progress, we need to come together as a people and implement the following;
Respected northern elders and traditional rulers (if we have any) should be encourage to come forward and mediate between these figures, emphasizing the importance of unity for the progress of Kano and the entire region. There is also need for civil societies members and the electorates to hold the leaders accountable, demanding and encouraging a focus on governance, collaboration on non-partisan issues such as insecurity, poverty alleviation, and youth empowerment rather than personal feuds. It is also high time that His excellency Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf activates the activities of the established council of elders, to promote dialogue and collective decision-making, which will eventually radiate within the entire northern region for a transformative Journey.
In conclusion, we need to shine our eyes and know that the rivalry between the prominent figures in Kano is more than a localized political battle. It is a threat to the northern region’s unity, development, and influence. Resolving this conflict should be given optimum and immediate priority and sustained efforts from stakeholders at all levels to refocus leadership on governance, regional collaboration, and addressing the pressing needs of the population than personal gain and ego.
Finally Allah says: “And hold firmly to the rope of Allah all together and do not become divided.. (Surah Al-Imran 3:103).
Ruqayyah Hamidu Muhammad PhD
Executive Director NASSDEV
Email: info@nassdev.ng
Tel: +234(0)8032014161
Saleh Adamu Kwaru, CNA, FCCSA (USA)
In the face of our challenges, we must recognize the immense potential that lies within the Northern Nigeria. A region brimming with untapped potentials is more than just a geographical expanse. It is a treasure trove of natural resources, a fertile ground for innovation, and a home to a vibrant and resourceful people.
From the vast agricultural lands of the Middle Belt to the mineral-rich deposits of the North-East, and the abundant natural resources of the North-West, our region possesses the essential raw materials needed to drive economic growth and prosperity. These diverse resources provide a strong foundation for various industries, offering opportunities for development and investment that can significantly enhance the region’s economic landscape.
A Shared Vision for the Future
Imagine a Northern Nigeria where every child, regardless of their background or location, has access to quality education. Where classrooms are equipped with modern learning tools, skilled teachers inspire young minds, and a strong emphasis is placed on STEM subjects to prepare our youth for the future. Picture a region where technology revolutionizes agriculture. Where farmers utilize innovative techniques such as precision farming and drone technology to increase yields, conserve water, and reduce reliance on harmful chemicals.
Imagine a region where agro-processing industries flourish, creating jobs and adding value to our agricultural products. Envision a Northern Nigeria where our abundant natural resources are managed sustainably for the benefit of present and future generations. Where renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, are harnessed to meet our energy needs. Where forests are protected, water resources are conserved, and biodiversity is preserved.
Mobilizing Our Strengths
We must harness the immense potential of our region by capitalizing on our greatest assets: our fertile land, our industrious people, and our rich cultural heritage. Through investing heavily in education, we can empower our youth to become the leaders, innovators, and entrepreneurs of tomorrow. Quality education will equip them with the knowledge and skills needed to drive economic growth and social progress.
For the region to attain sustainable development and equitable distribution of resources, we must foster a culture of integrity and accountability in leadership. Transparent governance, effective public service delivery, and the eradication of corruption are essential for building a prosperous and just society. Indeed, when we prioritize good governance, we can create an environment that attracts investment, encourages innovation, and empowers our people.
This transformation cannot happen in isolation. It requires the active participation of all stakeholders— the government, the private sector, civil society organizations, and the communities themselves. The government, through sound policies and effective implementation, can provide the necessary framework for economic growth and social progress. With investment huge in infrastructure, education, and healthcare, the government can create the conditions for businesses to thrive and individuals to prosper.
The private sector, with its resources and expertise, can drive economic growth and create jobs. Scale up investment in local businesses, promoting entrepreneurship, and adopting sustainable practices, the private sector can contribute to the overall development of the region. The civil society organizations play a crucial role in advocating for social justice, environmental protection, and good governance. In the course of community mobilization, awareness campaigns, and advocacy, civil society can help ensure that the benefits of development reach the grassroots level, improving the lives of all.
Our rich cultural heritage is a profound source of strength and identity, reflecting the vibrant history and diverse traditions of Northern Nigeria. Through promoting tourism and cultural exchange, we can showcase the beauty, diversity and uniqueness of our region with the world. This not only spurs economic growth but also fosters pride in our communities and encourages the preservation of our traditions and community empowerment.
Northern Nigeria’s potential is not confined within its borders; it reaches far beyond, promising substantial growth and development. Through fostering collaboration with neighboring regions and countries, we can build a strong and interconnected trade network that enhances economic opportunities. Regional partnerships can facilitate knowledge sharing, resource pooling, and collective problem-solving, leading to greater prosperity as well as pave the way for a mutually beneficial exchange of goods, services, and expertise.
A Clarion Call to Action
The time has come for us to unite and take decisive action to transform our fortunes. Let us advocate for policies that recognize and integrate the abundant resources of our region, fostering a shared vision for Northern Nigeria’s growth. Moreover, let us invest in our youth, equipping them with the necessary tools and opportunities to succeed. Their potential is immense, and nurturing it will drive the region’s future progress.
The future of Northern Nigeria is undeniably bright, but it is our collective responsibility to turn that potential into reality and to hold our leaders accountable, demanding transparency and integrity in governance to ensure our collective prosperity. Together, we can build a prosperous and sustainable future for all.
Saleh Adamu Kwaru, CNA, FCCSA (USA) is a retired CBN staff.
Ruqayyah Hamidu Muhammad PhD
Begging (also known as panhandling) is the practice of imploring others to grant a favor, often a gift of money, with little or no expectation of reciprocation. A person doing such is called a beggar or panhandler. Beggars may operate in public places such as transport routes, urban parks, and markets. Some beggars adopt a persistent approach, approaching motorists in traffic, and creating nuisance along major highways. How ever begging, no doubt, is a downgraded act which leads to the image tarnishing as well as loss of prestige and dignity of any person engaging in it.
Islam prohibits begging as a profession, and considers it to be lazy work that goes against the strength that Allah gives. The Prophet Muhammad advised people to try to earn a living through lawful and good means, encouraging self-reliance and hard work. The only condition for one to beg is when he is extremely poor and in dire need, then such an individual can approach others for assistance and once his need is met, he goes back to his normal business. Islam frowns at taking begging as a means of livelihood.
Although contributing factor to this issue is the economic downturn, resulting in the closure of industries and factories, fuel subsidy removal, different acts of terrorism, leaving many without alternative means of livelihood. While discouraging begging, Islam also stresses the responsibility of those with resources to provide charity (zakat and sadaqah) to alleviate poverty and prevent people from resorting to begging.
The issue of begging, especially in places like Kano, where cultural and religious values encourage generosity, reflects a troubling misuse of kindness and a lack of systemic solutions to poverty. While the Islamic principles of charity (zakat and sadaqah) aim to create a safety net for the needy, the exploitation of this benevolence has led to social and urban challenges.
I want to commend and encourage the Kano State Government for its efforts to address the issue of begging, as it reflects a thoughtful recognition of the need to tackle this societal challenge. Taking decisive action against the menace of begging is crucial, not only to restore the dignity of individuals (who risk losing their sense of self-worth) but also to enhance the social and urban fabric of Kano.
The issue of paramilitary organizations like KAROTA (Kano Road and Traffic Agency), Federal Road safety Corps (FRSC) officials, and other related entities soliciting bribes or “begging” from motorists on Kano streets is indeed troubling. This practice undermines public trust in these institutions, compromises their integrity, and creates an atmosphere of lawlessness and embarrassment for both the authorities and the public.
To rebuild trust and professionalism, the government must make accountability and ethical behavior non-negotiable priorities. Ensuring that institutions like KAROTA and road safety agencies operate with transparency and respect for the public will not only enhance their effectiveness but also restore the dignity of both the enforcers and the citizens they serve.
The issues of begging and the misuse of public trust in Kano are deeply intertwined with broader societal and institutional challenges. While poverty and economic downturns have pushed many into desperation, the exploitation of kindness and corruption among enforcement agencies exacerbate these problems. Addressing these challenges requires a multi-faceted approach that combines compassion, accountability, and systemic reforms.
The Kano State Government’s efforts to tackle begging are commendable, and they should be bolstered with robust policies that empower individuals to seek dignified livelihoods. Similarly, eradicating unethical practices within paramilitary and traffic enforcement agencies must be a top priority to restore public trust and professionalism.
By fostering an environment of dignity, transparency, and responsibility, Kano can pave the way for a more equitable and harmonious society where charity serves its true purpose, laws are upheld with integrity, and every individual is encouraged to contribute positively to the community. Let this be a collective commitment to reclaim the soul and pride of Kano for the benefit of all.
Ruqayyah Hamidu Muhammad PhD, is the Executive Director Network for Awareness for Socio-economic Rights and Sustainable Development (NASSDEV).
K-SAFE lauds Kano’s ₦168.4 billion education budget allocation
AGILE launches ‘second chance’ learning centers in Gwarzo
Gov Yusuf reshuffles cabinet, sacks SSG, chief of staff
VC BUK receives accreditation report for early childhood, primary education programmes
Post Harvest Loss: Kano Partners Aviation Industry to Advance Export of Agricultural Produces
Ulama Forum faults Tax Reform Bills, backs northern governors
GovernorYusuf, deputy, Grace Turbanning of New Chiroman Kano
Rep member Tijjani advocates for homeschooling to address educational challenges
Friday Sermon: Encouraging Islamic Education Reduces Crime In The Society!
