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Federation within a Federation:The Untold Story of Prof Na’Allah as Uniabuja Vice-Chancellor

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2 years ago

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Professor Na'Allah

 

Hakeem Alohunmata

The 1914 amalgamation of the Northern and Southern protectorates as one entity, called Nigeria, has repeatedly been described as a ”marriage of inconvenience” or simply put, a ”forced marriage”. To some people, even, it was a wedding without marriage. This is the position of the pessimists who see Nigeria as a failed project. How can it be a successful project when the couples are constantly in conflict like sworn enemies? A nation that graciously allows artificial divisions to becloud its sense of harnessing its cultural diversity and religious plurality for national development. A nation that allows faint lines of boundaries to blur its vision of tapping into the resources of its over 400 languages for tourism enterprise. A nation that allows mutual suspicion to daunt its passion for developing its human resources for skill exportation.

A nation that allows political affiliations to clog the wheel of its fortune, progress and prosperity. Pursuing the banality of a fictitious interest, the nation is found wanting in the loneliness of a multi-crore forest. The multitude of culture, plurality of ethnicity and diversity of religion, rather than being a blessing to the nation, seem like an irredeemable curse placed on a traitor in a local movie. Nepotism, sectionalism and corruption have eaten so deep into the system that it has spread like a wildfire to every sphere of our institutions.
University of Abuja, a federation within the federation, shares a similar experience. It is the only federal University in Nigeria that has all the thirty-six states of the country as its catchment in terms of staff recruitment and student admission.

It is an heterogeneous community, and a conglomerate of conflicting ethnic groups, diverse cultures and polarized religious affiliations. Like the bigger federation, the ethnic divisions and religious affiliation have, over the years, become a bane in the development of the university. The institution had badly been bitten by the bared fangs of nepotism. Past leaders of the university had tried, without much success, to free the University from the tightening claws of sentiment in order to chart a course for development of the University. However, lack of political will to suppress ethnic favoritism and religious bigotry whips the chord of incessant internal crises, underscored by monumental bickering and eventual down-tooling of labour unions within the university. Prolonged industrial actions, blatant disregard for academic calendar, admission and certificate racketeering, infrastructural deficit, poor staff and students welfare, and low-level of academic research output, top the chart of the numerous challenges bedeviling the institution. And this is no less the reason why the university was being derided and ridiculously referred to as a ‘glorified secondary school’.

This was the situation of Uniabuja, until the birth of a new regime spearheaded by an altruistic, patriotic and detribalized Nigerian – Prof. AbdulRasheed Na’Allah. Rather than succumbing to the seemingly insurmountable problems, which are as big as the mountains surrounding the campus itself, Prof. Na’Allah saw an opportunity in the ethnic and socio-cultural division of his staff. No sooner he was appointed as the Vice-Chancellor in 2019, than he coined a slogan – The University for National Unity – for the university. This slogan has come to stay as the University is now popularly known as UofA of Nigeria and the University for National Unity. The coinage of this slogan shows the readiness of Prof. Na’Allah, right from inception, to form a government of national unity by mobilizing staff, students and stakeholders regardless of their ethnic or religious affiliations to work with him on his mandate to bring an aggressive development to the University. The idea of University of Abuja as a university for National Unity becomes his watchword. It is at the fulcrum of his programmes and policies, and it was brought to bear even in the appointment of deans and directors into key positions in the University without sacrificing merit. His idea of national unity was reflected in the admission process. Having realized that some sections of the country had benefited too much for so long in the scheme of things including student admission, he reviewed the admission process to ensure that applicants from every state of the federation are admitted to the University without prejudice. Prof. NaAllah’s patriotism could also be noted in the staff recruitment exercise by standing firm on the principles of federal character. His belief in National Unity resonates in two critical centres he established: the Centre for Community Development and Centre for Stakeholders Mobilization. While the Centre for stakeholders mobilization is working hard to mobilize for support from people of different background and status from within and outside the University, the Centre for Community Development serves as a link between the ‘town and gown’. Through the Centre for Community Development, the host communities are deeply involved in the activities and programmes of the institution. They now feel more attached to the University like never before. The harmonious relationship between the host communities and the university made it possible for Prof. NaAllah to achieve the construction of perimeter fencing of the entire university land – a task no one believe was possible.

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Prof. Na’Allah’s zeal for infrastructural development is not known only to University of Abuja. As the pioneer Vice-Chancellor of Kwara State University, he started the university from zero infrastructure to a masterpiece, a world-class university with beautiful landscape, superb architectural edifice, good road networks, stable and quality academic delivery, a feat that made the then Kwara State Governor call on the House of Assembly to review the one-term tenure policy of a Vice-Chancellor, to allow him come back for another term of five years.

This also is an uncommon privilege earned by uncommon character and dedication to duties. The Executive Secretary of TETfund, Arch. Sunday Echono, visited the university recently. He could not but confirm the solid foundation laid by Prof. Na’Allah upon which KWASU today stands.
However, the great achievements he recorded at KWASU were not enough to reveal the patriotism in him as KWASU seems to be a small community with small political set up. The opportunity eventually came when he was called upon to serve his nation in the capacity of Vice-Chancellor of a Federal University- a university with conservative tradition that defies modernity; a university that takes solace in mediocrity and stagnancy; a university with galaxies of scholars working in isolation without collaborations; a university with a senate that is divided against itself across ethno-religious lines.
Managing such an institution was a huge task because the most difficult thing to accept is change. As a master strategist, Prof. Na’Allah, amidst stiff rejection, cheap blackmail and witch-hunting, was able to waddle through the muddy water to pave the way for the needed development in the University. Under his leadership, University of Abuja has regained its rightful position in the community of Universities in Nigeria. With his doggedness and administrative acumen, Prof. Na’Allah had, in no small measure, maintained the sanctity of academic calendar and improved academic standard of the University. With COVID-19 lockdown and the prolong ASUU strike that rocked the entire 2020 and early part of 2021, University of Abuja was one of the few, if not the only, universities that did not lose a single session. Prof. Na’Allah developed a robust virtual learning system that allowed students to take their classes while at home. Students now know the day they will graduate, the first day they are admitted into the University. This was largely made possible with the introduction of a portal system by Prof. NaAllah who is popularly known across the length and breadth of the campus as a digital Vice-Chancellor.

To the committee of Vice-Chancellors of Nigeria Universities, Prof. NaAllah is known as an infrastructure Vice-Chancellor. He leaves no one in doubt of his capability by turning University of Abuja to a construction site. To him, the best welfare any staff can get is to have a conducive working environment. He then began on an aggressive mobilization for fund by blocking leakages, improving the university internally generated revenue (IGR) without unnecessary hike in school fees, rallying for financial supports from philanthropists, organizations and well meaning alumni of the University, and lobbying government and government agencies to invest in the infrastructure of the university. These endeavour yielded tremendous benefit as money raised are prudently plunged into building of faculties, befitting lecture theatres, state-of-the-art laboratories, world-class international conference centres, building of new hostels and renovation of existing ones, staff clubs, new staff quarters on campus, mini stadium, solar farms, computer laboratories across the campus, first-of-its-kind new senate building (ongoing), completion of the old senate building as well as all other abandoned projects (PG school, Faculty of Engineering, Faculty of Sciences etc.) landscaping and street lighting of the entire campus, good road network, to mention a few.

This recent
transformation occasioned by a world class administrator, Prof, AbdulRasheed Naallah, opened up the University to both local and international collaborations. Government agencies, ministries, diplomats from various countries, international organizations, Universities from other African countries, Europe, China, Japan, North and South Korea, are now trooping to the University for partnership and exchanges. This gives the ever-expanding student population the opportunity for intercultural exchanges as some students of the university, that won Fukushima Prefecture Governor’s award were recently invited for a tour of Japan by the Japanese government; so also is the University receiving international students on exchange programme to its campus. The Chinese government is continuously supporting the University’s Engineering programme through provision of state-of-the-art equipment.

Prof. Na’Allah, in a grand style and in one scoop, did what no Vice-Chancellor in the history of Uniabuja had ever done by securing NUC approval to start twenty-six (26) new programmes including Aeronautic and Astronautic Engineering. He is a Vice-Chancellor of many first’s’: The first Vice-Chancellor to introduce students employment scheme to Nigerian education system, the first Vice-Chancellor to introduce Railway Engineering (awaiting NUC resource verrification result), Aeronautic and Astronautic Engineering (at KWASU) as undergraduate programmes and so on. Prof. NaAllah’s unmatched administrative experience in managing tertiary institutions had, without doubt, brought about a significant change not only to University of Abuja but also to the Nigerian higher education system as other Universities now tow the lines of a new direction he had painstakingly led.

Prof. NaAllah is a distinguished academic and astute administrator that only needs a bigger stage to turn around the fortune of Nigerian education system.

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Opinion

Kano Gov’s Defection : As Gov Radda Concretizes Synergy With Kano

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7 hours ago

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January 28, 2026

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By Abba Anwar

Immediately after his official decamping to All Progressives Congress (APC), the Kano state Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, the Governor of Katsina state Dr Umar Dikko Radda, described the move as “… strategic for regional unity, stability and development.”

In a press statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed, the Chairman of the North West Governors’ Forum, Radda, after congratulating Kano governor for the move, he signaled his intention of working in good synergy with his Kano counterpart for finding lasting solutions to insecurity, political instability and other vices.

He was instructive when he said, according to the statement, “The decision of His Excellency, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, to join the APC is a demonstration of responsible leadership and a strategic step towards deepening cooperation with the Federal Government and advancing the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the benefit of Kano State and the entire North West.”

The statement clearly indicates maturity in governor Radda’s statesmanship position across the zone, his readiness to work tirelessly with governor Yusuf in repositioning and revitalizing the zone for better tomorrow. In areas like sustainable development, enhanced security, fight against youth restiveness and drug abuse.

In his commendation of the Kano state governor, he acknowledged that, “Leadership demands the courage to take decisions in the long-term interest of the people. Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has demonstrated this by placing peace, stability and progress above all other considerations.”

In my estimation and understanding, the way Kano APC received the hitherto New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) governor into its fold, with all sense of dignity, humility and magnanimity, was what moved other APC North West Governors to collectively congratulate him through the able leadership of the governor of Katsina state.

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The statement disclosed that, “On behalf of the North West Governors’ Forum, Governor Radda congratulated Governor Yusuf and assured him of the full support and cooperation of his colleagues across the region and the country, while wishing him wisdom, strength and success in his leadership.”

All who is who in Kano APC was very much around and received the governor with all open hearts. To the extent that, he was assured by the APC leader in Kano, then, former governor Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, CON, that, all paths were set for the new entrant, governor Yusuf, to seek for re-election come 2027.

The same assurance was given by the Deputy Senate President, Distinguished Senator Barau I Jibrin, CFR, that, he jettisoned his ambition and gave way for the incumbent to contest for a second tenure, 2027. Many good wishes and encouragements were transparently stared at the good face of the governor.

Observing how comfortable the Kano state governor was, during the grand event for his decamping, that took place at Government House, Kano, governor Radda believes further that, another good partner for meaningful development is now on board. Hence the unwavering support from other North West governors to governor Yusuf.

Radda’s glaring happiness and show of commitment towards the development of Kano, was what prompted him to acknowledge and accept new political alignment and realignment with Kanawan Dabo at the peak of political cohesion, as governor Yusuf cross-carpeted.

In the referenced press statement, the Katsina state governor hinted that with Yusuf’s exit from NNPP to APC, the synergy between Kano and federal government, which he termed as political realignment would enhance the implementation of the Renewed Hope Agenda in critical areas such as security cooperation, agricultural transformation, industrialisation and youth empowerment.

With this, we have nothing to add, as encomium to the people’s President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, who has energetic state governors under the platform of his party, the APC. Such as Governor Radda, who leads North West Governors’ Forum.

In another way round, Katsina state governor, is very instructive to some basic advances that, Kano state under APC, would receive critical attention from the federal government. This, I observed severally.

This could also mean, Radda’s attention and unwavering commitment for development, are focused on Kano, with the entrance of Yusuf into APC’s fold. This means a lot as build – up to APC’s victory come 2027. It also means his un-arguable commitment to regional cohesion and cooperation.

To fully appreciate and strengthen the courage of other elected officials from Kano, who also decamped to the ruling APC, in the press release, the leader of North West Governors’ Forum, “… welcomes the decision of members of the Kano State Executive Council, the State House of Assembly, National Assembly members and local government Chairmen to also join the APC, describing it as a strong signal of political stability, unity of purpose and shared commitment to development in the state.”

Anwar writes from Kano
Wednesday, 28th January, 2026

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Opinion

Political Juggernaut And Stabilizer Of Reckon

Published

2 days ago

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January 27, 2026

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Dan Sa’idu Mamman Gaya

The ongoing political shake-up navigating the Kano’s political atmosphere will ultimately lead to alignment and realignment of political forces. Positions, both elective and appointive will be adjusted to align with the new coalition. This is with a view to striking balance, provide the necessary shocks to accommodate members of the ruling Al Progressives Congress (APC).
Since the news of resignation of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf from New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) broke, the political atmosphere in Kano state has been tensed and filled with high degree of uncertainty which has led to the sharp division of the Kwankwasiyya movement into those in favour of the impending defection of the Governor to All Progressives Congress (APC), led by key confidants of the Governor and those oppose to the move led by the leader of the Kwankwasiyya movement, Senator Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso.
Naturally, when there is such a political development, positions are likely to be affected and realigned to suit the desired political stability and balance. In the instant case of the defection of Governor Yusuf from NNPP to the APC, which triggered division among the Kwankwasiyya adherents, there are indications that the office of the Deputy Governor might ultimately become vacant owing to the adamant posture of the current occupier of the office, Comrade Aminu Abdulsalam who apparently pitch tent with those that are opposed to the defection of the Governor. The likely thing to happen with the eventual vacation of the office by the Deputy Governor either voluntarily or to be consumed by the consequential political adjustment, the realignment will create a vacant deputy governor’s position.
The governor’s defection may lead to the impeachment of the deputy governor at worst, or he might decide to follow the path of honour by resigning the position.

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In the event of the eventual Deputy Governor’s exit, the task of replacement becomes a priority and a matter of serious consideration for political stability and balance of power in the state. In this regard, the process of choosing a new Deputy Governor must be matched with the necessary tact and strategy and forward thinking. Already, there are schemings and discreet moves by interested individuals and groups that are promoting certain individuals to replace the Deputy Governor in his eventual exit as the number two citizen of the state.
Among the frontrunners for the replacement of the Deputy Governor is a former Commissioner for Local Government, Honourable Murtala Sule Garo whose choice is seen as most strategic, suitable, appropriate, right and apt for stability and balance of the Abba Kabir Yusuf government and political structure. Those who favour Honourable Murtala Sule Garo to emerge as the next Deputy Governor hinged their argument on some sterling qualities of Honourable Garo among which include his strong political structure that cuts across the entire length and breadth of Kano State. Loyalty and commitment as displayed in his previous assignments both as Local Government Chairman and later Commissioner for Local Government has made him the best option so far. Honourable Garo’s political influence came to the fore when he aspired for Kano Governorship in 2023 where his political strength, doggedness, dexterity and spread made him to secure the Deputy Governorship ticket of the All Progressive Congress (APC) after the party primaries, owing to the fact that he was a force to reckon with since APC was deeply committed and determined to win the governorship election.
Those behind the moves for the emergence of Honourable Sule Garo as the next Deputy Governor are of the view that fairness, justice and equity are essential components of democracy hence maintaining the Deputy Governorship seat in Kano North Senatorial district where Honourable Garo hails from will solidify the support base of the APC and by extension that of the Governor. This is even more so, as the zone has always been a stronghold of the APC. The APC has maintained control of the Kano north senatorial district even in the face of the NNPP’s 2023 winning streak that swept across the entire Kano’s political landscape. Unarguably, Honourable Garo’s unmatched influence and strong political grip in the Kano North remains the secret of the continuous relevance and dominance of the APC in the zone, hence his choice as the next Deputy Governor will ultimately solidify APC in the zone and better prepare Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf for a smooth return to Government House come 2027. A word is enough for the wise.

Mamman contributes this piece from Kaduna.

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Opinion

Why Garo Deserves Deputy Governor Position Under Kano’s New Political Equation

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2 days ago

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January 27, 2026

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By Najeebullah Ibrahim Soron Dinki

As Kano State witnesses renewed political realignment and coalition-building, attention is increasingly shifting from slogans to substance.
At the heart of this transition lies a crucial question; as the current Deputy Governor, Comrade Aminu Abdulsalam Gwarzo who stick to NNPP bow out, while the Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf defect to APC. What is it likely to happen to the vacant deputy governor’s position when he finally vacate the seat? Who among the political figures will Governor Abba choose to replace him and equally fly the ticket with him in his second term bid?
A politician that can fit in and eventually complement the governor, must be a person with credibility, balance, and grassroots strength. He must be the best bet for this position. In this unfolding conversation, Murtala Sule Garo emerges as a compelling and strategic choice for the Deputy Governor position.

Kano politics has always been decided from the bottom up. Elections are however not won in conference rooms alone but at polling units, wards, and local government areas. This reality places a premium on leaders with authentic grassroots connections—leaders who understand the language, needs, and aspirations of ordinary people. Garo’s political journey reflects precisely this grounding.

Unlike many whose influence is limited to elite circles, Murtala Sule Garo’s relevance has been forged through sustained engagement with grassroots structures. His political capital is built on trust, loyalty, and accessibility. These are not abstract virtues; they translate directly into mobilization, trust, and electoral resilience—assets any serious coalition must prioritize.

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Beyond grassroots appeal, Garo brings valuable experience in public service and political administration. The office of Deputy Governor demands more than ceremonial presence. It requires a steady hand capable of managing sensitive political relationships, coordinating government priorities, and serving as a reliable bridge between leadership and the people. Garo’s background positions him to perform this role with competence and restraint.

Coalition politics, by nature, thrives on inclusion and unity. Kano’s emerging coalition must accommodate diverse interests, heal divisions, and project stability. Garo’s ability to maintain cordial relationships across political lines marks him out as a consensus builder, not a polarizing figure. In a state as politically vibrant as Kano, this quality is indispensable.

Electorally, the value of a deputy governorship candidate lies in added strength, not symbolic balance alone. Garo’s extensive grassroots networks, youth engagement, and familiarity with local political dynamics give the coalition an edge where it matters most—on election day.

In the final analysis, the Deputy Governor’s slot should reinforce credibility, expand reach, and stabilize governance. Murtala Sule Garo represents a blend of grassroots legitimacy, political maturity, and unifying potential. For a coalition seeking victory and effective governance in Kano State, his candidacy deserves serious consideration.

As Kano stands at the threshold of a new political chapter, choices made today will shape governance tomorrow. Selecting leaders rooted in the people remains the surest path forward. In this regard, the cap fits Hon. Murtala Sule Garo.

Najibullah Wrote from Kaduna

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