Tribute
Mai Mala Buni: My Governor, my brother at 55
Mai Mala Buni: My Governor, my brother at 55
By Ibrahim Jirgi
I find it an honour and privilege to write this piece on the birthday of Mai Mala Buni, Yobe state Governor, a leader that holds much promise in keeping our state focused and disciplined in the pursuit of edifying goals and living with values that define the Northern character as a whole.
As accurately described in a piece by, “at 55, Governor Buni is a success story. He is a celebration of life that has touched so many other lives positively. Like the goldfish that has no hiding place, Governor Buni has been identified, recognized and appreciated with several awards of Good Governance, Transparency and Accountability, Peace Ambassador and the National Honour of the Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON).”
I particularly want to celebrate this moment with my brother and leader, Mai Mala Buni for his inspiring presence at all times and untiring efforts to keep the flames of our dedication to the interests of the people of Yobe and Nigeria alive.
It is important to place on record the immeasurable gratitude of the people of Yobe to Governor Buni whose leadership, sacrifice, statesmanship, patriotism and unwavering commitment to the interests of the people of the state and citizens of Nigeria as a whole has few parallels today.
At 55, Buni has molded himself into a passionate believer of the organic links between generations, always available for young people and the elderly and it is no exaggeration to say that the elders see him as a great statesman, but the youth celebrate him as a mentor, a guardian, a living history and an embodiment of all the exemplary qualities they should strive to achieve.
In particular, a lot of young people draw inspiration from the life and works of Governor Buni and they strive, in all they do, to live by the personal and social values and standards he lives and set for himself as citizen, subject and leader.
He has grown to become a leader with an extensive political career who serves the country and the people of Yobe State with dedication, making very important contributions to the development of institutions and communities.
Buni is a thoroughbred statesman determined to make the critical difference in the lives of the people he leads and who has so far, succeeded in building confidence across a wide spectrum of the social strata.
A man of the people, Buni believes that governance ought to be a Ministry of Happiness; that political differences ought to be managed in order to pursue the greater good of society.
Impressively, Buni believes in local content: empowering indigenous Yobe contractors, building from within. Yobe prospered under him, although his detractors fail to appreciate the direction, meaning and focus of his brand of politics: namely, politics as a means of making society better, helping the people to live better lives.
For Mai Mala Buni, it’s 55 years full of attainments and noble heights that loudly reverberates in his persona as one of Nigeria’s most gifted crisis managers of persuasions in contemporary times.
At 55, Buni is celebrated as a cerebral leader, politician, democrat, administrator, businessman, articulate manager of human and material resources, bridge builder, and governance expert.
Today, Governor Buni, Governor Buni, combining the task of governance and party administration with diligence, has outlined his priorities as a Governor and setting his target goals as a political party administrator to reposition the All Progressives Congress, APC. His multisectoral development programme for Yobe covers all aspects of the People’s life.
Health
To the glory of God, 138 out of the proposed 178 Primary Healthcare Centers have been completed, furnished, equipped and put to use. Six Primary Health centers are now upgraded to General Hospitals while Four General Hospitals were also upgraded to Specialists Hospitals.
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The State Teaching Hospital was upgraded to be in tune with changing times, making the Teaching Hospital one of the best in the country! boasting of adequate manpower and state-of-the-art machines.
The aspiration of Yobe state government under the Governor Mai Mala Buni administration to curb the unacceptable rate of maternal, newborn and under-5 child mortality in the state; is graduating from a dream to solid reality, with the completion of the construction of the Maternity, Paediatrics and Newborn Complex, at the Yobe State University Teaching Hospital, Damaturu.
Building Nigeria’s largest Maternal and Child Healthcare Complex
The Buni administration has constructed Nigeria’s largest maternal and child care complex. The structure has been completed and is now being equipped for inauguration by President Muhammadu Buhari.
The structure is made up of seven blocks of one storey complex with patient-friendly spaces in accordance with the global best practice in modern maternal, Newborn and Paediatric health care as obtained in advanced countries.
The architectural masterpiece would satisfactorily take care of expectant/nursing mothers, their newborn babies as well as children in general.
The Obstetrics and Gynaecology wing of the Complex has 64 Open cubicles, five Call duty rooms, five satellite pharmacies, one side Laboratory and four Nurses’ stations.
The Special Baby Care Unit (SCBU) has three adjoining generously spacious and nicely done wards that is 28 baby cots wards for newborn babies suspected of sepsis, 10 newborn cots wards for out-born babies, and 10 newborn baby cots wards for In-born babies, four Nurses’ stations, 10-bedspace room/unit for their nursing mother.
In addition, there is a 10-bed space room for nursing mothers to breastfeed their newborn babies, five Doctor’s rest/Call duty rooms, five nurses’ rest/change rooms, five offices for the unit Matron in charge, four additional offices for health information management/documentation, seminar room, a library and with Kitchen and stores.
The Labour ward and obstetrics theatre units; have provision for four operation suites (including attached sterilization and scrubbing area, six recovery rooms, additional offices for anesthetics perioperative nurses, other theatre support staff, males and females change rooms, common room for staff on duty, seminar and computer rooms.
The Paediatric medical ward has 40 cubicles, four call rooms, four side labs and a satellite Pharmacy.
Similarly, the Emergency Paediatrics Unit has 32 bed space cubicles (including a resuscitation cubicle), 2 doctor’s call duty room, a side laboratory, nurses’ station, change room, satellite pharmacy and eight staff offices.
Apart from the gigantic MNCH Complex the Yobe State Government under the able and dynamic leadership of Hon Mai Mala Buni CON has constructed a modern 150-bed capacity isolation center with a state-of-the-art Public Health Laboratory at the Yobe State University Teaching Hospital Damaturu.
In line with Governor Buni’s policy of providing standard and functional health facilities at all levels, state-of-the-art equipment are being installed at the center to provide all the necessary healthcare services to mother and child, to effectively curb the menace of maternal and child mortality in the state.
Meanwhile, a 32 apartment block of officers quarters has been constructed at State Teaching Hospital to build upon the already existing housemanship programme at the Yobe State Specialist Hospital Damaturu.
Education
The Buni administration rehabilitated existing schools and established six modern and seven Mega schools to decongest schools, procured books and laboratory equipment worth billions of Naira, employed more teachers, trained and re-trained more teachers to enhance manpower to improve quality of education in the state. Government is sponsoring over 220 students to India, and many others in various institutions across the globe studying specialised courses.
Airport
The Buni regime has completed the state-owned international Cargo airport which it inherited at skeletal stage. It is now ready for commissioning. It also initiated and constructed four modern markets to create conducive environment for trade and commerce for economic development, resuscitated three dormant industries, provided women and youth empowerment initiatives for self-employment, constructed 2,300 housing units the largest housing intervention since the creation of the state.
Roads and Electrification
Numerous township and inter- town roads have been constructed to facilitate movement of goods and services. Government has also provided 133 communities with electricity supply to make life better for the benefitting communities. Today, there has been an increase in self-employment and economic empowerment in the benefitting communities.
Agriculture
The Yobe state government under the able leadership of Governor Buni is transforming agriculture from subsistence farming to commercial based agriculture through provision of inputs and implements.
It is indeed gratifying that the Buni administration is rated by independent Budget monitors as one the best in Nigeria in Capital Budget Expenditure, and prompt in payment of workers’ salaries and the best performing state in due process, transparency and accountability in the conduct of government business.
This is wishing our amiable Governor a happy birthday at 55 and prayer for more blissful years ahead.
***Jirgi, a journalist, is Managing Director, Tripple CEE
Mai Mala Buni: My Governor, my brother at 55
UMTH: Day Management pays a condolence visit to the late Professor Jibril Aminu’s family.
Dr. James Bwala
The management of the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH) on Thursday, June 12, 2025, paid a condolence visit to the family of the late Professor Jibril Aminu, a distinguished scholar and former education minister. This gesture underscores UMTH’s recognition of Professor Aminu’s immense contributions to Nigeria’s educational landscape and his lasting legacy in academia. Such visits are vital in demonstrating institutional respect and solidarity with bereaved families during times of loss, reflecting the values upheld by academic communities.
Professor Jibril Aminu was widely celebrated for his dedication to advancing education and fostering intellectual growth across Nigeria. The UMTH management’s visit not only honored his memory but also reaffirmed their commitment to upholding the standards he championed throughout his career. By engaging directly with the bereaved family, UMTH exemplified compassion and collegial support, reinforcing bonds within the academic fraternity.
This condolence visit by UMTH management highlights the importance of acknowledging eminent figures in education who have shaped national development. It serves as a reminder that institutions must continue to celebrate and preserve such legacies through respectful gestures that strengthen communal ties within academia. The visit also served as an opportunity for UMTH to express gratitude for Professor Aminu’s contributions. This visit also provided an avenue for UMTH to reflect on the values that Professor Aminu instilled in the academic community, emphasizing the need for continued dedication to educational excellence.
This occasion underscored the collective responsibility of academic institutions to honor those who have significantly influenced educational landscapes and inspired future generations. By paying tribute to such a distinguished figure, the UMTH management reinforces the significance of nurturing intellectual legacies that inspire progress within the educational sector. This gesture also underscored the deep respect and admiration held for Professor Aminu’s contributions to medical science in Nigeria.
A condolence letter was formally handed to the bereaved family, expressing collective sympathy and acknowledging their profound loss. The letter highlighted Professor Aminu’s dedication, professionalism, and lasting impact on the academic community.
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In a related announcement, Professor Ahmed Ahidjo, the Chief Medical Director (CMD) of University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH), revealed plans to name the Heart Center at UMTH in honor of Professor Aminu. This decision reflects recognition of his pioneering work and commitment to advancing cardiac care in Nigeria. Naming such a vital facility after him serves not only as a tribute but also as an inspiration for future generations in medical research and practice.
These acts symbolize both mourning and celebration—mourning for an esteemed scholar lost and celebration of his enduring legacy within Nigeria’s medical field. The establishment of a heart center bearing his name ensures that Professor Aminu’s contributions will continue to influence healthcare development across the nation. This initiative also emphasizes the importance of honoring those who have paved the way for progress, ensuring that their legacies are not forgotten but rather serve as guiding lights for upcoming medical professionals.
Although the formal ceremony is scheduled to be held on July 29, 2025. The naming of the Heart Centre stands as a testament to Professor Aminu’s visionary work and serves as a beacon of excellence, inspiring both current practitioners and future medical leaders to emulate his passion and dedication. In this spirit, the Heart Centre will not only provide cutting-edge cardiac care but also foster an environment of innovation and learning, where aspiring doctors and researchers can build upon Professor Aminu’s foundational work, pushing the boundaries of medical science while keeping his ethos of compassion and excellence at the core of their practice.
The legacy of Professor Aminu, immortalized through this Heart Center, will thus continue to shape the landscape of healthcare in Nigeria, reinforcing the critical role that dedication and visionary leadership play in advancing medical frontiers. It is a fitting tribute to a man whose life’s work was defined by a relentless pursuit of knowledge and a deep commitment to improving patient outcomes.
James Bwala, PhD, writes from Abuja.
UMTH: Day Management pays a condolence visit to the late Professor Jibril Aminu’s family.
Late Haruna Dauda Biu: My brother, my friend in the perilous realm of frontline journalism
By: Dr. James Bwala
Late Haruka Dauda Biu was more than a Voice of America (VOA) correspondent reporting from Borno; he was my friend, brother, and comrade in the perilous realm of frontline journalism. His dedication to truthful reporting amidst the insurgency in northeastern Nigeria exemplified courage and resilience. Together, we navigated the complexities of conflict zones, often risking our lives to bring critical information to global audiences. Haruna’s unwavering commitment not only highlighted the human toll of violence but also underscored the essential role journalists play in conflict resolution and accountability.
Our shared experiences forged a bond rooted in mutual respect and professional solidarity. In an environment where misinformation is rampant and danger constant, Haruna’s integrity set a standard for ethical journalism. His legacy endures as a testament to the sacrifices made by correspondents who confront adversity daily to uphold democratic ideals through informed reportage. The loss of Haruna Dauda Biu is deeply felt among colleagues who continue to draw inspiration from his exemplary service on the front lines of journalism.
Haruna Dauda Biu was a man distinguished by his simple character and unwavering commitment to peace, qualities that defined his leadership of the Correspondent Chapel. His humility and approachable demeanor fostered an environment of trust and cooperation among his followers, embodying the virtues often idealized in effective community leaders. Unlike complex or authoritarian figures, Haruna’s simplicity allowed him to connect deeply with individuals from diverse backgrounds, facilitating dialogue and understanding within the chapel.
As a leader dedicated to peace, Haruna Dauda Biu emphasized reconciliation and harmony amid challenges faced by religious communities in Northern Nigeria. Although broader studies highlight persistent violence affecting churches in the region. Haruna’s leadership stood out for prioritizing peaceful coexistence. His approach aligns with recognized strategies where local leaders play crucial roles in conflict prevention by fostering communal values despite limited formal authority.
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Haruna Dauda Biu exemplified how modesty combined with principled leadership can cultivate peace within religious settings. While larger socio-political forces shaped many challenges confronting Nigerian churches, his personal dedication to simplicity and harmony provided a stabilizing influence within the Correspondent Chapel community.
The passing of Haruna Dauda Biu marks the loss of a remarkable individual whose smile and spirit will be profoundly missed. His battle, marked by resilience and courage, exemplified a commendable fight against adversity. While his departure is deeply felt, it is comforting to acknowledge that “God loves him more,” suggesting a spiritual solace amid grief. Such expressions are vital in honoring the memory of those who have left an indelible impact on their communities.
In reflecting upon this tribute, it is imperative to recognize the unwavering support extended by key figures during Haruna Dauda Biu’s final days. The Vice President Kashim Shettima and the Chief Medical Director of University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, Professor Ahmed Ahidjo, who played significant roles in providing care and encouragement while he was hospitalized. Their contributions underscore the importance of leadership and solidarity in times of personal hardship. Though external references offer limited insight into these individuals’ involvement, acknowledging their support enriches our understanding of communal bonds in moments of loss.
Ultimately, this tribute not only commemorates Haruna Dauda Biu’s life but also highlights the collective efforts that surrounded him until his last day. It serves as a testament to human compassion and shared responsibility in confronting mortality with dignity and grace. Such narratives are essential in fostering empathy and appreciation for those who stand beside us during life’s most challenging moments.
* James Bwala, PhD, writes from Abuja.
Late Haruna Dauda Biu: My brother, my friend in the perilous realm of frontline journalism
VP Kashim Shettima mourns Edwin Clark, saying Nigeria has lost a statesman.
By: Dr. James Bwala
The death of Chief Edwin Clark, a distinguished Nigerian statesman, has severely saddened Vice President Kashim Shettima, who spoke eloquently about the nation’s profound loss. In a moving remark, Shettima acknowledged Clark’s outstanding contributions to Nigeria’s political environment and national progress. His remarks highlight the tremendous vacuum left by Clark’s resignation, honoring the elder statesman’s unwavering dedication to national unity and democratic principles.
Clark’s legacy extends beyond mere political rhetoric, embodying a transformative vision for Nigeria’s socio-political advancement. Vice President Shettima’s mourning reflects not just personal grief but a collective national sentiment, acknowledging Clark’s instrumental role in shaping contemporary Nigerian political discourse. The tribute highlights the importance of honoring elder statesmen who have dedicated their lives to national service and inter-ethnic dialogue.
As Nigeria confronts ongoing challenges, Clark’s memory serves as a critical reminder of the values of integrity, leadership, and national cohesion. Shettima’s commemoration transcends traditional mourning, positioning Clark’s life as a foundational narrative of Nigerian resilience and collective aspiration. Through this remembrance, the vice president reinforces the continuity of Nigerian political leadership and its commitment to progressive national development. In this moment of national reflection, Shettima calls upon Nigerians to draw inspiration from Clark’s steadfast dedication to fostering peace and unity across diverse ethnic and political lines.
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Shettima urged the nation to uphold Clark’s legacy by championing policies that promote inclusivity and sustainable development. Shettima further urged leaders across the nation to embrace dialogue and cooperation, drawing lessons from Clark’s inclusive approach to governance. Shettima emphasized that by emulating Clark’s dedication to dialogue and mutual respect, Nigeria can navigate its current challenges with a renewed sense of purpose and unity. By embracing these principles, Nigeria can forge a future that honors the past while steadfastly moving towards a more inclusive and prosperous society.
Shettima envisions a Nigeria that lives on variety and communal progress via the promotion of a discussion and collaboration culture. Shettima envisions a Nigeria that lives on variety and communal progress via the promotion of a discussion and collaboration culture. Shettima envisions a Nigeria that lives on variety and communal progress via the promotion of a discussion and collaboration culture. Shettima envisions a Nigeria that lives on variety and communal progress via the promotion of a discussion and collaboration culture.
With heartfelt reflection, he stressed that Clark’s unwavering commitment to justice and equality should serve as a guiding light for all Nigerians in their pursuit of national cohesion. Shettima’s tribute underscores the necessity of preserving Clark’s legacy through actions that prioritize national interest over personal or political gains. By continuing to champion these ideals, Shettima hopes to inspire future generations to build a nation where unity and understanding prevail over division and discord.
By continuing to honor Clark’s memory through meaningful initiatives and public service, Shettima aims to cultivate a legacy that resonates with the aspirations of a united Nigeria. Shettima’s dedication to fostering a sense of shared purpose highlights the profound impact Clark had on his vision for Nigeria’s future. He believes that by embracing Clark’s spirit of inclusivity, Nigeria can continue to strive towards a brighter and more harmonious future.
Shettima’s tribute underscores the necessity of continuing Clark’s legacy by fostering dialogue and unity among Nigeria’s diverse communities. His commitment to peace and understanding serves as a guiding light during these times of national reflection. Shettima emphasizes that honoring Clark’s memory through initiatives that promote unity and inclusivity is essential for Nigeria’s progress. Shettima calls upon all citizens to actively engage in efforts that bridge cultural and ethnic divides, fostering a truly inclusive society.
Shettima’s heartfelt message serves as a reminder that the principles Clark stood for are not just ideals to be remembered but active pursuits necessary for the nation’s enduring stability and prosperity. He urges the nation to come together in this moment of collective mourning. He urges the nation to come together in this moment of collective mourning, recognizing that unity is not only a tribute to Clark’s legacy but also a crucial step towards achieving lasting peace and development.
Shettima’s words resonate with a deep appreciation for the legacy Clark leaves behind, urging every Nigerian to embody the values of unity and peace in their daily lives. In this spirit of unity, Shettima calls for a renewed commitment to the ideals that Clark championed. Shettima’s reflections remind us that in embracing these values, we not only honor Clark’s memory but also forge a path towards a more harmonious and united Nigeria. Shettima’s reflections remind us that in embracing these values, we not only honor Clark’s memory but also forge a path towards a more harmonious and united Nigeria.
In commemorating Clark’s lasting legacy, Shettima underscores the value of education and discourse in developing understanding and cooperation among Nigeria’s varied populations. In commemorating Clark’s lasting legacy, Shettima underscores the value of education and discourse in developing understanding and cooperation among Nigeria’s varied populations. Shettima’s touching tribute is a stunning reminder of how one person can have a long-term impact on a country’s journey toward unity and growth.
Shettima’s heartfelt tribute serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring impact one individual can have on a nation’s journey towards unity and progress. In remembering Clark’s unwavering dedication to these causes, Shettima urges the nation to not only reflect on past achievements but also to actively participate in building a future that aligns with Clark’s vision of a just and equitable society.
In this pivotal moment, Shettima calls upon all citizens to embody the principles that Clark so passionately advocated, urging them to take collective action towards national development and social justice. In this pivotal moment, Shettima calls upon all citizens to embody the principles that Clark so passionately advocated. By doing so, Shettima hopes to inspire a renewed commitment to the ideals of unity and progress that Clark championed throughout his life. Recognizing the void left by Clark’s passing, Shettima encourages leaders and citizens alike to continue striving for a Nigeria that reflects the values of unity and inclusivity.
* Dr. James Bwala, PhD, writes from Abuja.
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