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DCG Al-Bashir Hamisu: A Tapestry of Leadership Excellence in Customs – From Policy Maestro to Transformative Philanthropist

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DCG Albashir

 

Deputy Comptroller-General (DCG) Al-Bashir Hamisu’s illustrious career within the Nigeria Customs Service is a testament to his unwavering commitment, exceptional leadership, and outstanding policies. Widely regarded for his merit-based elevation, this distinguished officer’s journey of three decades has not only left an indelible mark on the Customs Service but has also impacted the lives of many through mentorship and philanthropy.

A Master of Exemplary Character and Policies: DCG Al-Bashir’s rise to the rank of Deputy Comptroller-General, marked by the title ‘per standard compass’ with a plus symbol (+), reflects the acknowledgment of his outstanding character and policy acumen. Beyond mere career progression, his elevation is perceived by many as a result of sheer merit and competence, establishing him as a paragon of excellence within the Customs Service.

Mentorship and Guiding Principles: The distinguished role of Deputy Comptroller-General (DCG) in charge of the Strategic, Research, and Policy Department places an extraordinary individual at the helm of crucial decision-making within the Nigeria Customs Service. In this pivotal position, the officer not only navigates the complex landscape of strategic planning but also contributes significantly to the formulation and implementation of policies steering the entire organization.

Leadership at the Helm of Strategic Direction: At the heart of the Customs Service’s Strategic, Research, and Policy Department, the Deputy Comptroller-General assumes a leadership role that extends beyond routine responsibilities. This position requires a visionary leader, and the individual in question has proven to be exactly that. Through a mastery of strategic thinking, the DCG shapes the direction of the Customs Service, ensuring that it remains agile and responsive to the dynamic challenges it faces.

Exemplary Character: A key aspect that defines the Deputy Comptroller-General is exemplary character. The mastery of policies is not just about expertise but also about integrity, ethics, and a commitment to upholding the highest standards. Colleagues and subordinates alike look up to this leader as a beacon of moral fortitude, setting a precedent for ethical conduct within the Strategic, Research, and Policy Department and beyond.

Policy Architect: As the mastermind behind policies driving the Customs Service, the DCG plays a pivotal role in crafting frameworks that govern various aspects of operations. These policies not only ensure compliance with regulations but also contribute to the overall efficiency and effectiveness of customs procedures. The officer’s adeptness at policy architecture reflects a keen understanding of the broader implications of decisions made within the department.

Strategic Research Expertise: In the realm of strategic planning, the Deputy Comptroller-General leverages expertise in research to inform decision-making. This involves a nuanced understanding of economic trends, trade dynamics, and emerging challenges impacting customs operations. By staying abreast of the latest developments, the officer ensures that the Customs Service remains proactive, adapting strategies to meet the evolving demands of the global trade landscape.

Influence on Organizational Culture: Beyond the technical aspects of the role, the Deputy Comptroller-General’s exemplary character and policy mastery have a profound impact on the organizational culture. Colleagues find inspiration in the ethical standards set by this leader, fostering a culture of accountability, transparency, and dedication to service. The influence extends to fostering an environment where innovation and continuous improvement are embraced as integral components of the Customs Service’s identity.

DCG Al-Bashir Hamisu’s Tapestry of Leadership Excellence: In the intricate weave of the Nigeria Customs Service, Deputy Comptroller-General (DCG) Al-Bashir Hamisu stands as a masterful artisan, intricately threading various qualities that define him as a stalwart leader. His journey is marked by a tapestry of strengths that extend far beyond the realms of routine duties, embodying the epitome of exceptional leadership within the Customs Service.

A Symphony of Leadership: DCG Al-Bashir’s qualities as a leader resonate like a harmonious symphony, where every note contributes to the orchestration of success. His excellent leadership skills have become the backbone of his professional journey, guiding not only his personal career trajectory but also shaping the path for those who serve alongside him. With a vision that transcends conventional boundaries, he has cultivated an environment where leadership is not just a title but a commitment to service and growth.

Policy Maestro: In the realm of policies, DCG Al-Bashir emerges as a maestro, conducting a composition of regulations and frameworks that resonate with efficiency and effectiveness. His outstanding policies have become the cornerstone of the Customs Service’s operations, reflecting a profound understanding of the intricacies of trade, security, and fiscal responsibility. Through his policy acumen, he has not only streamlined procedures but has also fortified the Customs Service against the challenges of a dynamic global landscape.

Commitment Forged in Solidity: Solid commitment to duty is the bedrock upon which DCG Al-Bashir’s professional journey is built. It is a commitment that transcends mere obligation, embodying a steadfast dedication to the principles of service and responsibility. In the face of challenges, his commitment stands unwavering, a testament to the resilience required to navigate the complexities of customs operations.

Uncompromised Service, Unparalleled Loyalty: In the dynamic landscape of public service, Deputy Comptroller General (DCG) Al-Bashir Hamisu stands as a paragon of unwavering dedication and loyalty within the Nigeria Customs Service. For Al-Bashir, his role transcends mere employment—it is a profound calling to serve both the organization and the people it represents.

Throughout his illustrious career, DCG Al-Bashir has forged an indelible legacy marked by an unyielding commitment to duty. His service is a testament to his steadfast devotion to the mission of the Nigeria Customs Service, leaving an enduring mark in the annals of the organization’s history. His resilience and tireless efforts have not only elevated him within the ranks but have also contributed significantly to the advancement of the service’s goals.

Al-Bashir’s loyalty is unparalleled, a cornerstone that has fortified the Nigeria Customs Service in times of challenge and triumph. His unwavering allegiance to the organization’s principles has not gone unnoticed, earning him the respect and admiration of colleagues and superiors alike. His leadership style is characterized by a rare blend of competence, integrity, and a deep-seated commitment to the greater good.

In the crucible of service, DCG Al-Bashir Hamisu has emerged as a beacon, illuminating the path of dedication and loyalty for others to follow. His legacy serves as an inspiration, encouraging a new generation of public servants to embrace their roles not merely as jobs but as profound callings to make a lasting impact on the institutions they serve and the people they represent.

Dedication to Service Enhancement: Dedication to enhancing the Nigeria Customs Service is a mantra that echoes through every facet of DCG Al-Bashir’s professional journey. His multifaceted approach extends beyond personal accomplishments, reaching into the very culture and effectiveness of the service. His dedication manifests in initiatives that elevate not only his career but the collective excellence of the entire organization.

Culmination of Influence: The influence of DCG Al-Bashir Hamisu goes beyond the confines of duty; it is a ripple effect that touches every corner of the Customs Service. His leadership is not a monologue but a dialogue with progress, shaping a culture where each officer is inspired to contribute to the collective success story. The culmination of his influence is evident in an organizational fabric woven with threads of excellence, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to the ideals of service.

In the grand tapestry of Deputy Comptroller-General Al-Bashir Hamisu’s strengths, we find a narrative of leadership excellence, policy mastery, commitment, loyalty, and an unwavering dedication to enhancing the Nigeria Customs Service. His multifaceted approach has not only propelled his own journey but has set the stage for a collective symphony of success within the Customs Service. DCG Al-Bashir stands as a beacon, illuminating the path toward a future where leadership transcends duty, and service becomes a legacy woven into the very fabric of the organization.

Leadership in Action – Zone B Transformation: During his tenure as Customs Comptroller for the Federal Operation Unit Zone B, Kaduna, DCG Al-Bashir left an enduring legacy of transformative leadership. His commitment to open consultation and the introduction of multiple policies not only enhanced the capacity of the Nigeria Customs Service.

This article was written by Muhammad Bashir from Abuja, and can be reached via email: muhammadbashir38@gmail.com

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Opinion

Kano APC Youth Coalition, Nasir Ja’o’ji and Party Survival

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By Abba Anwar

At cursory look of the title of this piece, what readily comes to mind, is the existing relationship between Kano APC Youth Coalition and Nasir Bala Ja’o’ji, in APC realignment process or procedure. This really captures the picture clearly from the surface. But there is more to it.

Kano APC Youth Coalition came into being more as a one-man-show, probably self-styled and crafty moved. But subsequent engagements of the Coalition, proves otherwise. Some people thought, the Coalition came handy canvassing for primary support for some quasi – politicians, unproductive as they appear, who always hide behind the scene and make a cover under good image of the party leadership at all levels.

Many people, including me, thought this Coalition under Adamu Unguwar Gini, would operate in desperation, under the guise of recuperating party youth into one basket for misleading purpose. As some elders, would-be-elders and self – acclaimed elders operate from clandestine position.

For sure the Coalition, prepared before its debut. Party elders, leaders and other stakeholders were contacted for direction and guide. This, I was not told, but I observed. I understand this by looking at its growing process. I equally understood that, the leadership of the Coalition was one time tilted towards particular side of the prism. But experience and good intention, in my view, necessitated for spreading the leadership into all sections of the state.

It is this strategy, among others, that gave individuals like Hon Nasir Bala Ja’o’ji, to see reason in aiding the movement. Though he is the Zonal Leader of the movement, from Kano Central. But his contribution towards having effective and efficient implementation of the core central objectives of the group, that is making the party stronger and domineering at all levels, gives him the courage to be one of the principal stakeholders.

The recently announced donation of Eighty Eight Million Naira (N88m) to the Coalition for the 44 local governments tour and empowerment of 100 people from each local government, says a lot in his enduring commitment to the expansion and making the party strong enough to compete comfortably come 2027, at both state and national elections.

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The proposed local governments tour and empowerment programme scheduled for time to come, is an important pointer to the fact that, this Coalition has very strong and fearless individuals that are ready to sacrifice their time, energy and resources towards political alignment and realignment within the party structure.

People like Musaddique Wada Waziri, Malam Abdussalam Ishaq (Kumbotso), Umar Maiwayo Rimingado, my younger brother Inyass Habibu, Ibrahim Danyaro, Jijitar, Abubakar Indabawa, former Vice Chairman, Warawa, Dini Manchester Kankarofi, Abubakar Aminu, Hon Barwa, Sani Gilashi, Danfillo, Idris Zango, among many others, are playing very critical role in strengthening the grip of the party across the state and the nation at large.

One interesting thing about this combination is, here are important actors, who, for strategic reason, come from all “sides” of the party stalwarts. Party stalwarts because they are the shining stars of the party in the state.

Stars like Deputy Senate President, Barau Jibrin, former Deputy Governor and Gubernatorial Candidate for 2023 election, HE Nasiru Yusuf Gawuna, former Commissioner for Local Governments and Chieftaincy Affairs and Deputy Gubernatorial Candidate for 2023 election, HE Murtala Sule Garo, Hon Abubakar Kabir Bichi, among others.

But all the Stars above lineup behind our Flagship, the National Chairman of the Party, Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, CON.

After critical review of the intention of the Coalition, Nasir Ja’o’ji comes to believe that, this Coalition means well for the party. And should therefore be facelifted, encouraged, guided and supported. After believing that, the Unguwar Gini led group, “… belongs to everybody and does not belong to anybody…”, Ja’o’ji made it compulsory to always give a helping hand to the group. More importantly, since the Coalition means genuine support for the party at all levels.

Let me still insist that, if Ja’o’ji a political appointee under President Tinubu, as a member Governing Council, of the Federal College of Education (Technical), Potiskum, Yobe State, can do this, contributing N88m, I’m sure other political appointees under the same administration can also replicate.

Because supporting Coalition in the same pace and manner, equals to supporting the party, the National Chairman, and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the same time. In my view therefore, Ja’o’ji apart from being a pacesetter among all political appointees from Kano, he is genuinely a firm believer of APC programmes and policies.

My appeal is for the National Chairman of the party, Baba Ganduje, and the Tinubu led administration, to kindly see reason for continued support for the Coalition and similar ones across all the 36 states of the federation, including the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.

As Unguwar Gini model shows in Kano, Coalition of this nature is not taking away any responsibility of party leadership. We can see how harmonious is the relationship between APC Youth Coalition and state leadership of the party, under Prince Abdullahi Abbas. Another pillar of great substance.

Neutrality of this Coalition, in my own understanding, is clearly manifested in how our shining stars give helping hands to the movement. They are eager to give resources and moral support. It is indeed the neutral posture that gives Ja’o’ji the strength to be of that magnitude.

Anwar, was Chief Press Secretary to the former Governor of Kano State, Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje and can be reached at fatimanbaba1@gmail.com

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Opinion

Open Letter to the Former Minister of State, Housing and Urban Development

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Abba Dukawa

As Muslims, we believe in Al-Qadar, the concept of Divine Decree or predestination. This pillar of faith reminds us that everything, good or bad, comes from Allah. We trust in Allah’s wisdom, love, and plan, acknowledging that our lifespan, deeds, and circumstances are recorded in the Lauhul-Mahfuz.

In light of your recent dismissal, I’m concerned that your public statements blaming certain individuals for your removal contradict this fundamental Islamic principle.

You admitted President Bola Tinubu explained your removal was due to the need to balance Kano State’s political representation. Quoting you: “I was surprised, as I wasn’t found guilty of wrongdoing or poor performance… Kano North was overloaded with political officers, hence the need to strike a balance.”

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I urge you to reflect on Quran 2:286, “Allah does not burden any human being with more than he is well able to bear,” and Surah Ali ‘Imran, verse 26, “Allah! Possessor of the kingdom, gives the kingdom to whom He will, and takes the kingdom from whom He will.”

Your rise from local government chairman to deputy governor and minister was Allah’s will. Similarly, your dismissal is part of Allah’s plan.

I caution against desperation and blaming others. Instead, trust Allah’s wisdom and providence.

As a Muslim, it’s inconsistent to think anyone can alter Allah’s plan for you. I believe those close to you are misleading you by allowing you to publicly blame others for your dismissal as Minister of State, Housing and Urban Development. It’s unwise to grant interviews after being relieved of duty, as it comes across as desperate—and your media handlers are equally at fault for permitting it.

Why have the rest of the ministers who were equally sacked remained silent? Why are you the only one expressing dismay for being relieved?

Dukawa writes from Abuja and can be reached at abbahydukawa@gmail.com

 

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Opinion

Sokoto:Sen. Wamakko’s 9 Years Of “Poor” Representation In The Senate

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Sokoto is known for leadership and where religious knowledge is deep-rooted. So, leaders from the Caliphate are well respected and honour by people from other parts of the country. The reason is clear, Sokoto is the seat of Caliphate that produced great leaders and Islamic scholars of high repute.

So, nobody expects less when it comes to leadership in the state, but if you are a keen observer and follower of activities in Nigeria, you would wonder if the Sokoto they are talking about today, have any link with the activities of the great leaders and scholars that were in charge of Sokoto of years back. Certainly, not, because the kind of leadership is not the same, today its political leadership and followers of Nigerian politics know that, the present day politics can’t provide the kind of leadership the Sokoto of the past provided.

Analysts questioned the negative trend ascribed to Sokoto state. They asked several questions including but not limited to how can the great Sokoto state be rated among the educationally backward states in Nigeria? Why should Sokoto be rated among the poorest state in Nigeria? They are worried that it is not acceptable to count Sokoto state among states with negative statistics on child and maternal health; malnutrition should not be an issue in Sokoto. In fact Sokoto should not be among the state that should be faced with insecurity challenges.

But all these and more are prevalent challenges in Sokoto state and this call to question the kind of leadership the political class in the state are providing. For those who are concern about the happenings in the state, are begining to doubt all the positive publicities some top politicians in the state are enjoying for years.

One politician in the state that fortune has smiled on since the inception of this political dispensation in 1999 is Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko, he has been around for so many years, from the grassroots to the mainstream politics of the state Wamakko has been at the forefront of leadership in the state. He was deputy governor for 7 years, governor for eight years and now Senator for nine years.

Wamakko enjoyed positive publications as a governor and had some landmark achievements ascribed to his name. He was seen as one of the performing governor in the state. Even though critics and analysts have contrary opinions. They said in terms of impact and cost analysis of some of his projects and or their lifespan/durability, Wamakko’s tenure is more of a disservice to the people of Sokoto than a blessing.

To buttress their argument, the critics and analysts, drew the attention of people of Sokoto to compare what his predecessor Sen. Ibrahim Lamido has done in terms of quality, durability and relevance to the general wellbeing of Sokoto people and the plethora of substandard projects Wamakko littered Sokoto with.

They further argued that to assess the quality and sincerity of Wamakko as a leader, his nine years as a senator should be critically scrutinized and the result of the findings be made public for all to judge. According to the analysts, Wamakko has not represented his people well. As a Senator, they said, he has held privileged committees that should be beneficial to the entire Sokoto, but no soul aside members of his inner circle that has benefitted from his senatorship seat.

They explained that the years of neglect of local governments like Gudu, Tangaza, Binji, Silame is the obvious reason why the Lakurawa terrorists group existed in the area for over 8 years unnoticed by the Nigeria government.

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Sokoto North senatorial district comprises of Sokoto North and Sokoto South, Wamakko, Kware, Binji, Silame, Gudu and Tangaza, you go round these local government areas and point to one particular thing the senator has done for members of the senatorial district.

Yes the eastern senatorial district of Sokoto is facing serious security threat in the last seven years, and this has affected socioeconomic activities, which has increased the level of poverty in the region. However, for the last 17 months, things have began to change for better. Purposeful leadership and deliberate actions to change the fact of things can be witnessed.

The purposeful leadership of senator Ibrahim Lamido and deliberate attempt to find a lasting solution to the many challenges affecting the region are so glaring for all to see. For instance, the deliberate investment in education of youth from the region is one sure way of liberating the region from the grip of unscrupulous elements taking advantage of poor level of education in the area to recruit terrorists.

In an unprecedented move and boldness to confront the deep rooted challenges of poor quality of education, Sen. Lamido has sponsored about 50 youth from the zone to study in various fields of human endeavours in India. This is in addition to many interventions in the education sub-sector from the senator, who out concern to the education of youth, declared war against poor education in the region.

This is not happening in any of the senator districts of Sokoto including Sokoto central where Sen. Wamakko spent 9 years representing his constituents in the Red Chamber. It has never happened, it is not happening and I am not sure if there is any plan to do anything like this by the two other senators for the teeming youth in their respective zones. All the eight local government areas of the senatorial district need education intervention including the two metropolitan, but nothing close to this has ever happened. Why won’t Sokoto be rated as educationally backward state when leaders don’t see the need to invest in education of the teeming youth?

Due to the security challenges, Sokoto state is faced with a lot of humanitarian challenges as a result of banditry attacks. And Sen. Lamido has responded well to these challenges. He did not stopped at distribution of relief materials and visitation of victims of banditry attacks, rather engaged in a very robust package of intervention where over a hundred of widows were empowered with N250,000 each to engage in micro and small businesses so as to become self-reliant.

This is done, to facilitate the resuscitation of the economic activities of eastern senatorial district that has suffered from bandits attacks and Sen. Lamido is doing all these from the point of knowledge, that no nation can survive insurrection if it’s people are economically incapacitated.

In the entire nine years of Sen. Wamakko, nobody can provide the record that he has done this kind of gesture. Nobody is talking about giving rice and clothing materials to widows and orphans. Nobody is talking of photoshoot with people who genuinely need humanitarian assistance, but leaders are taking pictures to further exploit people in need of assistance.

Sen. Lamido’s contributions in fighting insecurity in the eastern part of Sokoto if replicated by other senators in the state, nobody would be talking about the Lakurawa terrorists group in Sokoto. Sen. Lamido had from time to time assist communities’ efforts towards ending insecurity. In fact, with permission by the federal security agencies, Sen. Lamido funded the civilian JTF to support the mainstream security personnel in fighting the terrorists operating in the zone. This is in addition to many efforts that can’t be express in black and white due to their sensitive nature all in a bid to restore peace and normalcy in his region.

Such exemplary leadership is lacking in other parts of the state including in Sokoto North, Sokoto South, Gudu Tangaza Binji, Wamakko, Silame and Kware where Senator Wamakko is representing.

Needless to engage in lengthy write up, if Sen. Wamakko in his 9 years did 10% of what Sen. Lamido has done in 17 months in fight insecurity, the Lakurawa terrorists group wouldn’t have penetrated into Nigeria.

The security challenges in the eastern part of Sokoto is receiving the adequate attention of Sen. Lamido. Beside his contributions in fighting banditry, the senator he has equally provided many communities with good drinking water, relief materials and other supports to the Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) with a view to making their better.

Signed:
Concern Sokoto State Progressive Mind.
Convener

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