By Yunusa Hamza (Tafidan Farin Dutse)

At sixty-three, Governor Umar Namadi stands not merely as a public office holder, but as a compelling symbol of purposeful leadership, moral clarity, and people-centred governance.

His life journey was rooted in discipline, shaped by service, and guided by integrity which offers both inspiration and instruction in an era where leadership is often tested by complexity and competing expectations, especially in a multi geo and diverse communities like Jigawa State
Governor Umar Namadi’s formative years were defined by resilience, humility, modest and a deep appreciation for community values. His professional ascension, particularly in the financial and administrative sectors, was marked by diligence and an unwavering commitment to transparency. As a Fellow Chartered Accountant (FCA), he cultivated a reputation for prudence, accountability and an embodiment of good governance, a trait that later become the cornerstone of his public service ethos.
Governor Umar Namdi’s transition into politics was not driven by ambition alone, but by a sense of duty to contribute meaningfully to societal progress, rising through the ranks, he served with distinction both within the private and the Public notably as a Commissioner of Finance to Deputy Governor, Governor Umar Namdi demonstrated loyalty, competence, and a collaborative spirit. These qualities prepared him for the greater responsibility he now bears as the Executive Governor of Jigawa State.

Governor Namadi’s leadership exemplifies inclusivity in both vision and execution. He governs with a deliberate openness, ensuring that policies reflect the needs and aspirations of diverse communities be it urban and rural, young and old, privileged and underserved. His administration has consistently emphasized participatory governance, recognizing that sustainable development is anchored in collective ownership.

Equally defining is his honesty, an attribute that has earned him public trust and institutional credibility. In a political climate often clouded by scepticism, Governor Umar Namadi’s integrity stands out as a refreshing constant. He leads not with rhetoric, but with results, not with grandstanding, but with grounded action. His financial discipline and transparent governance have fostered confidence among citizens and stakeholders alike.

Above all, Governor Umar Namadi embodies commitment of purpose. His developmental agenda is not episodic but strategic focused on long-term impact rather than short-term applause, from strengthening education and healthcare systems to advancing agricultural productivity and infrastructural growth, his policies reflect a coherent vision for a prosperous and self-reliant Jigawa State.

At 63, the life of Governor Umar Namadi is a testament to the power of consistency, character, and conviction. He reminds us that leadership is not merely about occupying office, but about uplifting lives, building institutions, and leaving behind a legacy of hope, in fact it is worth noting that ‘’Sixty-three teaches that strength is not loud—it is steady.”

In celebrating Governor Umar Namadi this season, we celebrate more than a birthday rather, we celebrate a life devoted to service, a leader defined by inclusivity, honesty, and unwavering commitment to purpose.

On a final note, as a celebrant @63rd we all believe and agree that it is not a milestone of aging, but a celebration of significance and a clear testament to a life that has gathered meaning, shaped others, and it will in sha Allah continues to inspire, as the saying goes, “Sixty-three is not the sunset of life rather it is the golden hour where everything glows with purpose.”

This piece is written and submitted by Yunusa Hamza (Tafidan Farin Dutse) of Gwaram Local Government Jigawa State. Can be reached via yunusafarindutse@gmail.com +234-080 34 44 5493

By: Zagazola Makama

Armed bandits are reportedly planning coordinated retaliatory attacks across parts of Zamfara State following recent large-scale security operations that resulted in significant losses among their ranks, including the killing of a notorious kingpin’s son and several commanders.

The planned reprisals are believed to be linked to sustained offensives conducted by Nigerian military forces in collaboration with the and hybrid security units under Operation FANSAN YANMA, which targeted bandit enclaves in Tsafe Local Government Area and surrounding forest corridors.

The operations reportedly led to the neutralisation of about 65 armed bandits, including high-profile commanders operating under the network of Ado Aliero, a notorious figure linked to years of violent attacks, kidnappings and cattle rustling across Zamfara and neighbouring states.

Among those killed was Kachalla Iliya Sarki, identified as the son of Ado Aliero, alongside other field commanders who were said to play key roles in coordinating armed operations in the region.

Other commanders reportedly eliminated during the offensive included Dogo Sule and Iliya Mai Rasha, as well as additional field leaders who coordinated attacks across Tsafe, Maru and surrounding communities.

The losses are understood to have significantly disrupted the operational structure of the criminal network, even as indications suggest attempts by surviving elements to regroup and launch retaliatory attacks against security formations and nearby communities.

The planned reprisals are also said to involve large-scale movement of armed fighters across forest routes, with motorcycles used for rapid mobilisation and coordination across multiple axes.

The sources said the movement involved suspected bandits operating on over 200 motorcycles, assembling around Unguwar Tsamiya forest axis, with indications that a well-known bandit leader, Bello Turji, had been linked to the planned mobilisation.

Security sources said the sustained operations also dismantled several bandit enclaves in Munhaye and adjoining forest belts, disrupting logistics networks and freeing victims previously held in captivity.

One of the slain commanders, Kachalla Biyabiki, was said to have been holding several abducted victims at the time of the operation, while another leader, Kachalla Dogon Bete, was also neutralised during the engagement.

The development, according to intelligence officials, has significantly weakened the operational structure of Ado Aliero’s network but may also trigger retaliatory violence from surviving fighters seeking revenge.

Security authorities said the latest intelligence pointing to the likelihood of reprisal attacks, particularly against soft targets and isolated rural communities.

They added that surveillance and troop deployments had been intensified across vulnerable locations, with emphasis on forest fringes and highway corridors in Tsafe, Maru, and neighbouring areas.

Authorities also urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements, while assuring that ongoing operations would be sustained to prevent any breakdown of security.

Operation FANSAN YANMA forces, alongside DSS operatives and hybrid units, are continuing clearance operations aimed at dismantling remaining bandit camps and preventing regrouping across the North-West theatre.

By Isa Seidu

The peace move gradually emerging from the heart of Zamfara State between the incumbent Governor of the State, Governor Dauda Lawal, and his predecessor, the present Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Matawalle, is a rare demonstration of His Excellency Dr. Bello Matawalle’s political sagacity, peaceful disposition, and preference for the progress and well-being of the people of Zamfara State. It remains a decisive game changer for national politics while reflecting his loyalty and unreserved commitment to President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the ideals of the Renewed Hope Agenda.

Certainly, Dr. Matawalle has proven through this singular action and his willingness to jettison his gubernatorial ambition for the peace pact that nothing on earth is enough to outweigh his loyalty to President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whom he holds in the highest esteem and regards not only as a political mentor but also as a father figure worthy of any level of sacrifice.

Recently, Dr. Matawalle, in a show of solidarity and party loyalty, and out of his deep and passionate respect for President Asiwaju, decided to enter into a pact with Governor Dauda Lawal and also publicly dropped his 2027 governorship ambition under the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The move underscores Dr. Matawalle’s unflinching loyalty, love and respect for President Asiwaju, his belief in the All Progressives Congress (APC), and his prioritization of the unity and consolidation of the party above every other consideration.

Dr. Matawalle’s willing acceptance also represents his commitment to the stabilization of the party, the state and the nation, as well as a strategic realignment towards harnessing all that is necessary to consolidate the gains of the present administration and ensure its continuity in power both at the state and national levels ahead of the 2027 elections.

Dr. Matawalle has proven that, unlike many other Nigerian politicians, he possesses a rare quality of political maturity, sagacity, selflessness, and party loyalty. In a country where personal political ambition often overrides national priority, national development, political party structural cohesion and loyalty, Dr. Matawalle has proved beyond all reasonable doubt that there still exist a minority of morally strong and selfless individuals who are willing and ready to make necessary sacrifices for the greater good.

While notable figures within and outside Zamfara State, including the Vice President, Alhaji Kashim Shettima, have lauded the sacrifice of the Honourable Minister of State for Defence as rare, it is believed that this singular action will foster unity both in the state and within the APC, as well as improve grassroots mobilization. Dr. Matawalle has redefined the positive trajectory of the nation’s political space and has deepened political discourse, good governance, and the enhancement of tangible, people-based development and progress in a collaborative atmosphere devoid of rancour and egocentrism.

Already, positive feelers from the state indicate a progressively stable political ambience, improved governance and security, and a positive realignment of viable political forces and stakeholders aimed at ensuring positive outcomes that will lead to the landslide victory of the APC in all elections, not just in Zamfara State but across the entire North West regional bloc.

There is certainly no doubt that Alhaji Matawalle considers this success a greater good than his personal political ambition of becoming governor again, and he is determined and convinced to make all necessary sacrifices towards ensuring that this happens.

Moreover, the prioritization of President Asiwaju’s goals and aspirations, coupled with the strength of a united winning party, surely stands Dr. Matawalle as a grand hero of democracy, an exceptional fellow, a rare democrat, a time-tested and faithful party man, and an unwavering disciple of President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who is ready to put everything aside for his success.

This recent unification of purpose remains a redefinition of party loyalty and a clear evidence of the demonstration of sincerity of purpose and commitment, as well as proof of single-mindedness and strong belief in President Asiwaju. Indeed, Dr. Bello Matawalle has remained a consistently faithful party man as well as an ardent disciple of President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

He has remained upbeat and faithful to his conviction of the doctrine of loyalty and selflessness, and a beacon of inspiration to many and a pillar of unbeatable pace for several years of democracy to come.
Dr. Bello Matawalle, through the peace pact, remains an avowal of the cherished spirit of democratic commitment and unwavering faithfulness, further resonating what it means to approach politics selflessly and be willing to make the highest form of sacrifice as a disciple of the political doctrine of selflessness.

Seidu writes from Kaduna