Opinions
BUNI: CELEBRATING A QUINTESSENTIAL GOVERNOR At 54.

BUNI: CELEBRATING A QUINTESSENTIAL GOVERNOR At 54.
By Mamman Mohammed
For anyone meeting him for the first time, he is never in a haste to leave, while those meeting him for the second time or more, they always enjoy his company and want to hang on. He has a magnetic character that always attracts people to him. His face beams with a charming smile and always first extends his hands for a handshake to welcome you, whenever you meet him. He is eager to give you a sense of belonging and comfort.
Hon. Mai Mala Buni, the Executive Governor of Yobe state and Chairman APC Caretaker/Extraordinary Convention Planning Committee, is indeed, a true definition of a gentleman. His large heart is so accommodating and generous to a fault. He has a strong belief in the doctrine of forgiveness, forgiving those who have wronged him with a gentle smile. His enigmatic character leaves both his admirers and adversaries in bewilderment of the phenomenon Mai Mala Buni. He is humility personified.
On Sunday, 19th November 1967, the eastern stars shone like the morning sun, to welcome the birth of Mai Mala Buni, in the ancient and peaceful town of Buni Gari.
Hon. Mai Mala Buni, a great and rare breed politician that has become a household name in Nigeria’s political space, is the fourth Executive Governor of Yobe state and Chairman of the All Progressives Congress Caretaker Extraordinary Convention Planning Committee.
Young Buni was enrolled for memorization of the Holy Quran under the tutelage of his parents and other clerics before his enrolment into Buni Gari central primary school where he obtained the First School Leaving Certificate and proceeded to Government Secondary School Goniri where he obtained the West African Examination Council certificate. He also holds a Diploma certificate from the College of Vocational Science and Technology, Damaturu. He is a holder of a degree in International Relations, and a Master Degree from Leeds Beckett University, United Kingdom.
Governor Buni was introduced to business at a very early age following the death of his father, a renowned merchant and transporter in the area. Buni inherited lorries and tippers, and expanded the family trade in Gum Arabic, Cotton, Groundnuts, Hides and Skin. As time went on, he gained more experience in business and advanced into numerous business ventures including oil and gas, and Bureau De Change. Buni chaired and sat on several boards of business enterprises before his resignation after his election as governor of Yobe state.
Mai Mala Buni is by every standard a grassroots politician who started his political career in what could be described as “Beckon to Serve” when his community nominated and subsequently elected him as councillor in Gujba local government council.
At the local government council, Mai Mala Buni was unanimously elected Leader (Speaker) of the council. It was democracy in action when Buni, as leader of the council, had eight councillors on his side while the Council Chairman had only three councillors. He led a council that was vibrant and competitive in service delivery to the people of Gujba local government area.
The appointment of Buni as senior legislative assistant in the National assembly in 2000 broadened his political horizon and became a force to reckon with in political decisions of his constituency. He later became a Member of University of Uyo Governing council in 2004.
He was a Special Adviser on Political Affairs and Legislative Matters to Yobe state Governor and became protem state secretary and subsequently elected as substantive state Chairman of the All Progressives Congress,
until his election as National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress. He brought his wealth of political knowledge into the party administration and this contributed immensely to the success of the party which ushered the President Muhammadu Buhari administration into office in 2015. Buni was re-elected in 2018 to serve for a second term as National Secretary of the party.
As the National Secretary, he was appointed as Chairman of the Nigeria Shippers council, until another destiny beckoned on him the same year and was nominated, endorsed and elected as flag bearer of APC for the 2019 Yobe state governorship election. He won a free, fair election with a landslide victory such that the opposition party and its candidate publicly declared that they will not challenge Governor Buni’s election in any court of law. It went into history as the only governorship election in the state that was never challenged in court.
On assumption of office, Governor Buni declared a state of emergency on Primary and Secondary Basic Education to rejuvenate the damage done to the sector by the protracted Boko Haram insurgency. Healthcare delivery, Housing, Agriculture, Youth and Women Empowerment and economic growth were also listed on the priority list of his administration.
To the glory of God, many schools destroyed by the insurgency have been reconstructed, rehabilitated and re-equipped. Similarly, new Mega and Model schools have been constructed in Damaturu, Potiskum, Gashua, Geidam and Nguru to decongest the overcrowded existing schools, with a training and retraining of over 10,000 teachers.
Also Read: Blinken reiterates importance of freedom of expression,…
Little wonder why, 30 years after the creation of Yobe state, this regime made history as the only administration with the single largest housing intervention of 3,600 housing units in the state. The first phase of 2350 housing units has been completed and ready for inauguration.
In the health sector, the Buni administration proposed the construction of 178 functional Primary Health Care Centers for each political ward in the state, out of which 135 have been completed and equipped with functional laboratories, pharmacies, Male and Female wards and housing accommodation quarters. His government procured 88 customized tricycle ambulances for use in difficult terrains. Similarly, six health centers were upgraded to General Hospitals while four General Hospitals were upgraded to Specialists hospitals to provide effective, efficient, accessible and affordable healthcare to the people.
It is gratifying that his first year in office, recorded the resuscitation of three dormant state owned industries namely, the Yobe state Flour mills company, Yobe state Sahel Aluminum company and Yobe state Woven and Sacks company, creating huge employment opportunities and generating revenue.
To create a conducive atmosphere for trade and commerce, the government is constructing four modern markets in Damaturu, Gashua, Nguru and Potiskum which are nearing completion.
Today, he combines his duties as executive Governor of Yobe state and Chairman APC Caretaker Extraordinary Convention Planning Committee, administering Africa’s largest political party.
Under his leadership and to his credit, APC is back on its feet again with high profile defections. Already, three sitting state governors of Ebonyi state Mr Dave Umahi; Cross River state Prof. Ben Ayade and Zamfara state Alhaji Bello Muttawale had dumped PDP for the APC. Similarly, he brought former PDP National chairman Chief Barnabas Gemade, former speakers of the House of Representatives Yakubu Dogara and Dimeji Bankole, former Governor of Ogun State and erstwhile Director General of PDP’s Atiku Abubakar Presidential campaign organization Otumba Gbenga Daniel; several members of the National Assembly, former Chief of Army staff Lt. Gen. Azubuike Ihejirika, and many more other prominent politicians and their supporters across Nigeria.
Hon. Mai Mala Buni is gifted with uncommon courtesy and wisdom. A wisdom akin to that of king Solomon which attracted unprecedented entry into the party and its general success. Governor Buni made history by successfully revalidating old memberships and registering new members. The party now boasts of over 40 Million as the registration exercise remains open and gives the party ownership to the people using the bottom to top approach. In fact, there are fears that the political sagacity of Hon. Buni, which attracts more politicians into the fold of the APC, is capable of turning Nigeria into one party system.
Hon. Mai Mala Buni is a recipient of over 60 Awards of Excellence from various bodies, associations and corporate bodies in recognition of his contributions to human development, philanthropy, good governance and developmental democracy.
BUNI: CELEBRATING A QUINTESSENTIAL GOVERNOR At 54.
Opinions
My Public Servant Journey

My Public Servant Journey
By Alhaji Abubakar Alhaji-Abba
Every journey begins with a single step, and mine into public service began on 22nd October 1990, when I took up an appointment at the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH). At that time, I was a young man—full of ambition and determination—eager to contribute my quota to the growth of my community and my country. What I did not realize then was that this path would not only shape my career, but also mold my character, values, and outlook on life.
The Early Days
The early days were not easy. I started from the basics—handling routine administrative tasks, learning the intricacies of record-keeping, and adapting to the demanding environment of public service. It was a period that taught me patience, discipline, and humility. I quickly learned that in public service, dedication and accountability are not optional—they are the very foundation upon which trust is built.
I recall working long hours to ensure that essential records were accurate and supplies were properly managed. It wasn’t glamorous work, but it was crucial. Hospitals rely heavily on efficiency behind the scenes. Every file I handled and every item I documented could impact the quality of care delivered to patients in need.
As the years passed, I rose through the ranks. Promotions came not just as recognition, but as greater calls to commitment. Moving into supervisory and later managerial roles meant I was no longer responsible only for myself, but also for the performance and welfare of others.
Becoming Head of Department (Stores) was a defining milestone in my journey. I was entrusted with ensuring the availability and proper management of critical medical supplies. This role demanded a careful balance—ensuring accountability, minimizing wastage, and making decisions guided by both policy and ethics. It was during this phase that I fully grasped the weight of stewardship. Public service is about managing resources as if they were your own—because in truth, they belong to the people.

No journey is without its trials. The public sector in UMTH is not without its share of bureaucratic bottlenecks, resource constraints, and slow-moving systems. There were moments of frustration—delayed approvals, limited resources, or a lack of recognition.
But I learned to see these challenges as opportunities for personal and professional growth. They built in me a sense of resilience, resourcefulness, and purpose. Most importantly, they reminded me that true service is not about personal comfort, but about the collective good.
Looking back, I carry with me timeless lessons that have guided every stage of my career:
- Integrity is priceless. In public service, honesty and transparency are the strongest currencies.
- Service is sacrifice. It means putting the needs of others above personal convenience.
- Leadership is responsibility. Being in charge is not about authority, but about accountability and inspiration.
- Impact is not always visible. The value of one’s work lies in the quiet difference it makes in people’s lives, even when unrecognized.
Now, with 35 years of service behind me, I see this journey as more than just a career—it has been a life of service. A life defined by quiet but meaningful contributions to healthcare delivery, administrative efficiency, and community impact.
It is indeed a remarkable coincidence that on this very date, 22nd October 1990, I began my career in the service of UMTH—and today, 22nd October 2025, I formally retire. Exactly thirty-five (35) years of committed and honorable service.
This symbolic alignment of dates signifies not only the completion of a full circle but also a journey of unwavering dedication, growth, and fulfillment. I am deeply grateful to Almighty Allah (SWT) for His guidance and protection throughout this journey, and for granting me the grace to retire peacefully and honorably.
I am honored and fulfilled by the efforts I made and the contributions I offered—even in the face of challenges. My heartfelt prayers go to those still in service: May Allah (SWT) grant you wisdom, ease, and peace to complete your own journey with honor.
To the Management of UMTH, I offer this parting counsel:
- Treat every member of staff with justice, fairness, and dignity.
- Appointments and promotions should be based on merit and seniority—not favoritism, influence, or eye service.
- Keep your promises and let honesty and transparency guide your decisions.
- Let every staff member feel valued and motivated, and let patients feel the true presence of government through ethical, heartfelt service. Revive the ethical conduct and professionalism that once defined UMTH—a place where patients receive the best care and staff are proud to serve.
In Conclusion
Public service gave me a sense of purpose, pride, and legacy. Service does not end with retirement—it is a lifelong calling. And if I were to begin all over again, I would still choose this noble path.
Because in serving others, we find the truest meaning of life. Thank you.
Comrade Abubakar a distinguished and Meritorious Retiree of the UMTH lives in Maiduguri. He is an Administrative Veteran with Accomplished and legendary Pace setting records.
My Public Servant Journey
Opinions
AND WE WILL WIN!

AND WE WILL WIN!
By: Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez
Fidel Castro Ruz, historic leader and Commander in Chief of the Cuban Revolution, celebrates his 99th birthday today, in the prime of his life.
I write this in the present tense because that’s how I feel and because that’s how the celebration is unfolding for the beginning of a symbolic year for Cuba and for all those around the world who recognize the significance of his revolutionary leadership.
I’m speaking of the centennial or the eternity of a man who remains alive in time, even when the physical, the material, turned to ashes almost a decade ago and he left it clear that he didn’t want statues or monuments in his memory.
What not even he could decree was the impossible, that is, his oblivion. And there he remains, alive and present as only the eternal is. Because that destiny, as history has proven so many times, is not decided by anyone, only by the enduring power of the ideas of those who have guided hundreds, thousands, millions of human beings to achieve their dreams of emancipation and justice.
Fidel is eternal, not by his own choice or by those of us who try to follow in his footsteps and continue his immense work of social justice. He achieved that status by interpreting, synthesizing, and making his own the magnificent accumulation of Cuban, Latin American, Caribbean, and universal pro-independence, anti-colonial, anti-imperialist, and Marxist ideals that preceded him, placing himself at the forefront for all time.
In his intense public speeches or in his long private conversations, he displayed a total command of that infinite wealth of knowledge, dazzling the most diverse audiences from the first word to the last. But what has truly immortalized him is everything he said that he transformed, every action turned into work.
In these markedly Fidel-inspired days, when each of us displays, in books, videos, traditional media, or social media, the Fidel who accompanies us, we are taking credit for that eternity, to our own heartfelt emotion and that of others who feel the same. Or to the hateful denial of those who cannot bear the dazzling vitality of his ideas.
In my case, as you might imagine, Fidel is not just present. He is a constant: a guide and a challenge. An example and a source of sleeplessness.
I feel he remains at the forefront, as in the Sierra or at Girón. Every time threats grow, when necessity compels, when the blockade seems to close all exits, the question arises spontaneously: What would Fidel do?
The good fortune of having known him, of having seen him act, and of having received his guidance many times, makes the answers easier: they are in the people, in their infinite reserves of dignity and talent. And in the indispensable unity of all revolutionary forces around Martí’s ideal of achieving all justice.
He was supported by those certainties that we understand science and innovation as a pillar of government management. And with the talent, the solid material foundation he created, and the audacity of the country’s men and women of science and thought, which he shaped for the future that is now present, we faced and defeated the pandemic and continue to strive to overcome even seemingly insurmountable obstacles like the blockade and our internal inefficiencies.
In Fidel’s history, from his student years to his undeniable presence today, there is an infinite number of lessons, and they all coincide on one point: he never allowed himself to be defeated by circumstances. Even the greatest blows from his adversary only served to elevate his stature as a leader to a higher level.
Examining each of his battles, one can see the deep motivations that this leader, born from his very core, always awakened in this courageous people, turning setbacks into victory. Then we understand the full meaning of the farewell Che Guevara dedicated exclusively to him before leaving for other lands of the world, which the Cuban people made an irrevocable goal: Until victory, always. Never forgetting the Homeland or Death that makes it possible. Nor the optimism in a word: We will win!
Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez
Cuban President, wrote this article on the 99th Posthumous Birthday of Former Cuban President Fidel Castro.
AND WE WILL WIN!
Opinions
VP Kashim Shettima demonstrated leadership stewardship before, during, and after the burial of former President Muhammadu Buhari.

VP Kashim Shettima demonstrated leadership stewardship before, during, and after the burial of former President Muhammadu Buhari.
By: Dr. James Bwala
Vice President Kashim Shettima exemplified exceptional leadership stewardship in managing the burial process of former President Muhammadu Buhari. Before the burial, Shettima played a pivotal role in expediting the repatriation of Buhari’s remains from the United Kingdom by waiving the standard five-day protocol, enabling their return within 24 hours. This swift action reflected his diplomatic acumen and coordination with international bodies, including the Nigerian High Commission in London.
During the funeral proceedings, Shettima led a high-profile delegation alongside President Bola Tinubu to Daura, Katsina State, where they conducted a solemn and respectful ceremony. The inclusion of military honors and adherence to Islamic burial rites underscored his commitment to honoring Buhari’s legacy with dignity and reverence.
After the burial, Vice President Shettima continued to embody stewardship by ensuring that Buhari’s final wishes for a modest ceremony were fulfilled. His leadership throughout the entire process not only facilitated national unity but also demonstrated respect for cultural and personal values associated with state funerals.
Vice President Kashim Shettima’s execution of assignments as directed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu exemplifies a rare form of loyalty that underscores the essence of servant leadership. His unwavering commitment to the president’s vision and collective national welfare highlights his prioritization of service over personal ambition, a hallmark trait of true servant leaders. By maintaining unity within the administration and acting as both mentor and strategist, Shettima demonstrates responsibility and dedication that transcend conventional political roles. This steadfastness not only consolidates the administration’s objectives but also fosters trust among stakeholders.

Shettima’s ability to remain composed amid provocations reveals a deep-seated character marked by resilience and selflessness. Such conduct frustrates detractors while reinforcing his credibility as a leader who serves with humility and loyalty. Ultimately, the vice president’s approach reflects an exemplary model of servant leadership in contemporary governance, where loyalty is intertwined with accountability and genuine concern for the collective good.
READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/bandits-kill-seven-zamfara-community-protection-guards-cart-away-firearms/
The participation of Vice President Kashim Shettima in the burial process of the late former President Muhammadu Buhari in Daura represents a significant moment of humility and solidarity among Nigeria’s elite. By actively engaging in lowering the remains into the grave, Shettima transcended traditional boundaries often observed by individuals of high status, demonstrating profound respect and unity during a solemn occasion. Such involvement is rare, as prominent figures typically maintain a distance from physically participating in burial rites. However, Shettima’s actions inspired others present to similarly set aside their social ranks and partake collectively in honoring the departed leader.

This event underscores the potential for societal leaders to model empathy and communal values during times of loss. The collective effort at Daura not only paid homage to the former president but also sent a powerful message about national cohesion and shared humanity. It challenges conventional norms regarding status and ritual participation, encouraging greater inclusivity in public mourning practices. Consequently, Shettima’s example may foster broader cultural shifts toward unity across socio-political divides.
At the third day prayers, Vice President Kashim Shettima assumed a distinctly fatherly role that transcended mere political protocol. His engagement with sympathizers was marked by genuine empathy and approachable warmth, fostering a sense of communal solidarity during a period of profound grief. This compassionate demeanor not only comforted attendees but also reinforced social cohesion among mourners who sought solace in shared remembrance.

The Vice President’s interaction with the bereaved family was characterized by carefully chosen words of encouragement and rare personal reflections. These moments provided emotional sustenance and helped to bridge individual sorrow with collective resilience. His address functioned as more than a formal eulogy; it became a sermonic message imbued with wisdom and hope, intended to guide the family through their ongoing journey of mourning.
This paternal engagement by the vice president at such a solemn occasion underscores the vital role of empathetic leadership in times of national loss. The enduring impact of his words is likely to resonate within the family for years to come, serving as both a source of comfort and an ethical compass amid adversity.
Indeed, Vice President Kashim Shettima stands as one of the most exemplary figures in Nigeria’s democratic journey. His leadership is marked by a profound commitment to humanity and an unwavering reverence for ethical governance, qualities that have distinguished him from many of his predecessors. Shettima’s approach reflects a blend of empathy and accountability, fostering trust between the government and the populace. This humane leadership style has been instrumental in addressing socio-political challenges with sensitivity and pragmatism.

Shettima’s governance is deeply rooted in moral principles, often guided by the fear of God, which underpins his decision-making processes. This spiritual foundation enhances his credibility and integrity as a leader who prioritizes national interest over personal gain. Consequently, his tenure will be recorded in history as one characterized by sincere dedication to Nigeria’s progress and stability. Through his exemplary conduct, Vice President Kashim Shettima exemplifies what it means to lead with both compassion and conviction within Nigeria’s democratic experience.
* James Bwala, PhD, writes from Abuja.
VP Kashim Shettima demonstrated leadership stewardship before, during, and after the burial of former President Muhammadu Buhari.
-
News2 years ago
Roger Federer’s Shock as DNA Results Reveal Myla and Charlene Are Not His Biological Children
-
Opinions4 years ago
THE PLIGHT OF FARIDA
-
Opinions4 years ago
POLICE CHARGE ROOMS, A MINTING PRESS
-
News2 years ago
EYN: Rev. Billi, Distortion of History, and The Living Tamarind Tree
-
ACADEMICS2 years ago
A History of Biu” (2015) and The Lingering Bura-Pabir Question (1)
-
Columns2 years ago
Army University Biu: There is certain interest, but certainly not from Borno.
-
News6 months ago
FAILED COUP IN BURKINA FASO: HOW TRAORÉ NARROWLY ESCAPED ASSASSINATION PLOT AMID FOREIGN INTERFERENCE CLAIMS
-
Opinions2 years ago
Tinubu,Shettima: The epidemic of economic, insecurity in Nigeria