By
Abdulkadir Aliyu Shehu
23 March 2025

In a political landscape often clouded by exclusivity and gatekeeping, Malam Abdulaziz Abdulaziz, Special Assistant to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Media and Publicity, stands out as a beacon of hope, humility, and transformative leadership. Renowned for his “golden heart” and unwavering dedication to inclusivity, Malam Abdulaziz has redefined public service by bridging gaps between governance and Nigeria’s underserved youth, creating pathways to opportunities many never knew existed.

For years, federal job opportunities remained shrouded in secrecy, accessible only to those with connections or insiders in the political cycle. Most of the Political appointees from the North at both national and local levels often failed to prioritize transparency, leaving millions of youths in northern Nigeria’s greatest asset unaware of avenues to secure their futures. This changed when Malam Abdulaziz stepped into his role. With a relentless focus on equity, he found access to federal employment, ensuring qualified young northerners, regardless of background, could compete fairly. Recently, countless youths have secured permanent, pensionable jobs through his efforts in federal ministries and agencies, a feat previously deemed unattainable for ordinary citizens.

Malam Abdulaziz recognized the power of digital influence in shaping modern narratives. He pioneered initiatives to engage social media influencers, providing them with platforms to amplify their voices and contribute to national issues which never happened before. This innovative approach not only empowered young creatives but also fostered a more inclusive dialogue between the government and Nigeria’s tech-savvy generation.

One of his landmark achievements as a special assistant to Mr President is the creation of *Sabuwar Nijeriya* (New Nigeria), a groundbreaking Hausa-language program designed to promote President Tinubu’s policies and achievements across northern Nigeria. By leveraging radio, television, and digital platforms, the initiative breaks linguistic and cultural barriers, ensuring Hausa-speaking communities long marginalized in national media campaigns are informed, engaged, and connected to the government’s vision. This unprecedented effort has strengthened trust and participation in governance, setting a new standard for inclusive communication.

A Leader Unlike Any Other
What truly distinguishes Malam Abdulaziz is his character. In a region where political clout often overshadows empathy, he treats everyone regardless of status, ethnicity, or creed with dignity and respect. His “golden heart” has become synonymous with grassroots accessibility, earning him admiration nationwide. Colleagues and beneficiaries alike praise his humility, noting that his office doors are always open to the public, a rarity in Nigeria’s political sphere.

As Nigeria navigates complex challenges, leaders like Malam Abdulaziz Abdulaziz remind us of the power of selfless service. His legacy is a testament to how one individual’s integrity and vision can uplift entire generations. May the Almighty Allah grant him wisdom, protection, and elevation to even greater heights of leadership. With a higher office, there is no doubt he would unlock boundless opportunities for millions more, cementing his role as a cornerstone of Nigeria’s journey toward prosperity.

Malam Abdulaziz Abdulaziz is not just a government official; he is a movement a living embodiment of hope, equity, and the promise of a New Nigeria. His story challenges us all to demand more from leadership and to believe in the transformative power of a golden heart.

My final word is one from the Holy Qur’an verses “Whoever helps a soul, it is as if they have helped all of humanity.” (Quran 5:32) and Prophet Muhammadu Sallahu alaihi wasallam say The best among mankind is one who benefits humanity. Malam Abdulaziz Abdulaziz you’re the best.

Written From Kano
Abdulkadir Aliyu Shehu
Journalist
danfodio247@gmail.com

By Habib Sani Galadima

In January, during a journey from Abuja to Kano, I found myself drifting into a light sleep, only to be abruptly awakened by the sudden braking of our vehicle. The driver had encountered a security checkpoint. As we approached, a masked soldier, armed and vigilant, greeted us with the customary, “Sannu da zuwa. Allah ya kiyaye hanya,” translating to, “Welcome. Safe travels.”​

What struck me profoundly was his outstretched hand, reminiscent of the almajirai—the child beggars who populate our streets at traffic stops. Each approaching driver handed him ₦100 or ₦50, a scene that repeated with the next four cars.​

This incident highlighted a troubling reality: beyond the visible street beggars, we have uniformed personnel resorting to similar means.​

It’s unsurprising that some security officers resort to such measures when considering their remuneration. Reports indicate that junior security officers in Nigeria earn between ₦41,000 to ₦65,000 monthly.​

Reflecting on my childhood in 2005, I recall my father’s method of distributing ƙosai (bean cakes) as charity. He’d always give two pieces to my elder brother, the distributor, while the rest of us received one. I resented this until I became the distributor and received two pieces myself. Curious, I inquired about this practice.​

The explanation was simple: “The distributor gets extra to prevent dishonesty or feelings of being shortchanged.” At the time, I didn’t grasp the wisdom behind this. As I matured, I understood that by acknowledging the distributor’s efforts with a little extra, the temptation to pilfer is mitigated.​

Research supports the notion that satisfied employees are less inclined toward fraudulent behavior. A study focusing on financial companies in Semarang City, Indonesia, found a positive correlation between job satisfaction and reduced fraud intentions among employees.​

Additionally, the Fraud Triangle Theory, developed by criminologist Donald Cressey, identifies three drivers of fraudulent behavior: pressure, opportunity, and rationalization. By offering competitive salaries, employers can alleviate financial pressures, thereby reducing the risk of unethical conduct.​

In Nigeria, however, such proactive measures are often overlooked. Even if other sectors face inadequate compensation, underpaying security personnel is particularly perilous. Entrusting individuals with firearms while they endure financial hardships is a recipe for compromised integrity.​

This systemic flaw in our national security framework essentially grants security officers implicit permission to exploit their positions for survival, undermining the very essence of their duty.​

Addressing this issue requires immediate reform. Ensuring fair compensation for our security personnel is not just a matter of equity but a crucial step toward national stability and integrity.​

The ramifications of underpaying security personnel extend beyond individual misconduct; they permeate the entire fabric of national security and public trust. When those entrusted with safeguarding citizens are compelled to seek supplementary income through unethical means, the consequences are far-reaching.​

Public perception of law enforcement is significantly influenced by daily interactions. When citizens frequently encounter security personnel soliciting bribes or engaging in corrupt practices, trust in these institutions erodes. This mistrust hampers effective policing, as community cooperation—a cornerstone of effective law enforcement—diminishes. Citizens become reluctant to report crimes or assist in investigations, fearing exploitation or inaction.

A demoralized and financially strained security force is ill-equipped to tackle the myriad security challenges facing Nigeria, from insurgencies to organized crime. Low morale, stemming from inadequate remuneration, leads to diminished vigilance and commitment. This vulnerability can be exploited by criminal elements, further destabilizing regions and emboldening adversaries.​

Corruption within security agencies imposes a hidden tax on the economy. Businesses incur additional costs due to bribery demands, leading to increased operational expenses that are often passed on to consumers. Moreover, foreign investors may be deterred by a perceived lack of security and the prevalence of corrupt practices, stymieing economic growth and development.​

The normalization of corruption within security forces sets a detrimental precedent for society. It fosters a culture where unethical behavior becomes acceptable, permeating various sectors and hindering efforts to instill integrity and accountability in public service.​
Addressing the issue of undercompensated security personnel necessitates a multifaceted approach. Implementing a comprehensive salary review is essential to ensure that remuneration packages for security personnel accurately reflect the demands and risks associated with their duties. Additionally, establishing robust internal and external oversight bodies is crucial for monitoring conduct, investigating allegations of corruption, and enforcing accountability. Investing in continuous training and development programs equips security personnel with the skills and knowledge necessary for ethical decision-making and effective service delivery. Moreover, fostering stronger relationships between security agencies and the communities they serve helps rebuild trust and encourages collaborative efforts in maintaining public safety. Lastly, enacting and enforcing policies that deter corrupt practices, including stringent penalties for misconduct and protections for whistleblowers, are vital steps toward reform.​

By addressing the root causes of corruption within the security sector, Nigeria can pave the way for a more stable, secure, and prosperous future. Ensuring that those who protect and serve are themselves protected from the pitfalls of inadequate compensation is a critical step toward national rejuvenation.

By Tijjani Sarki

Urbanization in the 21st century presents both exciting opportunities and significant challenges. As cities rapidly expand, developing nations like Nigeria face the difficult task of addressing overcrowded metropolises, strained infrastructure, and the need for sustainable urban development. In this context, Kano, an economic and cultural powerhouse in northern Nigeria, faces an urgent need for modern infrastructure and housing solutions to accommodate its growing population.

Recognizing this need, the government of Kano State, under the visionary leadership of Engr. Abba Kabir Yusuf has taken bold steps to revitalize the city and tackle these challenges head-on. Following in the footsteps of Engr. Dr. Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, who championed the Kwankwasiyya and Amana Cities project between 2012 and 2015. Governor Yusuf has prioritized urban renewal and infrastructure development as key components of his administration’s agenda.

His commitment to revitalizing the cities, addressing the backlog of pension fund liabilities, and ensuring the proper allocation of resources will not only bolster economic growth but also improve the quality of life for the residents.

A cornerstone of this visionary approach, is the ongoing effort to clear the N4.3 billion pension fund liabilities invested in the expansion of Kwankwasiyya and Amana Cities projects.

This ambitious urban development initiative is a testament to the potential of forward-thinking governance, aligning urbanization with long-term sustainability.

Kwankwasiyya and Amana Cities: A Blueprint for Urban Development

The Kwankwasiyya and Amana Cities project, initially launched during the Kwankwaso administration, aimed to alleviate overcrowding, enhance the quality of life, and stimulate economic growth by creating a modern, well-planned urban center. With an investment of nearly N30 billion, Kwankwasiyya was envisioned as a model of urban development in Nigeria, featuring affordable housing, green spaces, efficient energy systems, and advanced water management strategies.

This urban hub, built with the goal of setting a new standard for sustainable development, was inaugurated on January 28, 2015, in a ceremony led by former Defence Minister TY Danjuma.

Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has commended the Kwankwasiyya and Amana Cities initiative for its forward-thinking design, and his administration has taken proactive measures to continue its development. Governor Yusuf’s leadership will ensure that the cities infrastructure is not only maintained but also further developed. The funding generated from this commitment will help complete the envisioned urban transformation and ensure that the project’s full potential is realized, offering an integrated solution to housing, economic activity, and sustainable development

Addressing Nigeria’s Housing Crisis
Kwankwasiyya and Amana Cities are more than just a housing project,it’s a paradigm shift in how urban spaces can be designed to support sustainable growth. As one of the most significant urban projects in northern Nigeria, Kwankwasiyya and Amana cities offer a clear solution to the escalating housing crisis in Kano. The city’s first phase spanned 205 hectares and included 698 housing units, designed with affordability and modernity in mind. This strategic development addresses not only the housing shortage but also the issues of overcrowding, slum development, and poor infrastructure that have long plagued Kano and many other Nigerian cities.

If this model of urban planning is replicated throughout Kano State, the results could be transformative. Governor Yusuf’s continued commitment to developing projects like Kwankwasiyya and Amana Cities City would go a long way in alleviating the strain on existing infrastructure, combating urban sprawl, and creating sustainable living spaces The investment in such projects will also bring lasting economic benefits, creating jobs, and attracting both local and international investment in the state.

Furthermore, the emphasis on energy-efficient buildings, advanced infrastructure, and green spaces aligns with broader environmental goals, positioning Kwankwasiyya and Amana cities as beacon of sustainable urban development. By combining economic growth with environmental preservation, the project exemplifies how urbanization can be harnessed to create resilient, livable cities.
Avision for the Future of Kano and Nigeria
As the population of Kano continues to grow, the need for innovative, sustainable urban solutions becomes increasingly urgent.

Projects like Kwankwasiyya and Amana Cities offer a comprehensive model for addressing these challenges. However, this is just the beginning. With the dedicated leadership of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf and a continued focus on infrastructure, sustainable housing, and economic revitalization, Kano has the potential to become a global example of how cities can be reimagined for the future.

By investing in urban renewal, offsetting the pension fund arrears, and completing major infrastructure projects like Kwankwasiyya and Amana Cities, the government of Kano State is not only improving the lives of its current residents but also laying the groundwork for a prosperous, sustainable future. As more cities in Nigeria and across Africa look for ways to cope with the pressures of urbanization, Kwankwasiyya and Amana cities stand as a model of how visionary leadership and strategic urban planning can reshape the urban landscape for generations to come.

Tijjani Sarki
A public policy advocate and analyst
Wrote in from Zawaciki
For Eye on Kano initiative