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.

– As students hail his agric policy

By Abba Anwar

It is not the intention of this write – up to x-ray the relevance and effectiveness of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) come 2027 general elections. The idea is not also to discuss the possibility of parties alliances as preparation to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in pre, during and post election periods, with SDP as one of the brain boxes.

I only see APC and SDP as opposing political platforms. A ruling party and opposition party eyeing each other’s jugular. Political sophistication, organizational stamina and proactive engagements can play critical role in this imminent political face-off.

Coincidentally, just few days after the former Governor of Kaduna state, Malam Nasiru El-Rufai defected from APC to SDP, the Deputy Senate President, Barau Jibrin, punched some deadly blows to SDP. In what appears like uprooting strategy against the party. The first of its kind since El-Rufai’s exit from APC.

Just few days back, on Tuesday 18th March, to be precise, Senator Barau welcomed the gubernatorial candidate of SDP in 2023, from Kano, Bala Mohammad Gwagwarwa, who cross carpeted to APC. He came along with the State Working Committee members, with 38 local government chairmen and secretaries of the party. Alongside 13 former House of Assembly and 6 House of Representatives candidates. Who also defected.

For Barau to display his capacity in this power play, with accurate sophistication, he made sure that during the event, which took place at REIZ Continental Hotel, Abuja, the Vice Presidential candidate of the party, Eng. Yusuf Buhari, was also part of the political cake swallowed by APC, with him (Barau) as the party’s tongue and throat, in this context.

Since when Nigerians started observing SDP recently, in the national scheme of things, among all the APC’s and PDP’s, among other parties’, heavyweights, in the country, to my knowledge, it was Barau who practically sends shivers to the party in a more practical way. The defection of SDP’s juggernauts speaks volume. But I stand to be corrected.

Though I was not privy to any groundwork before the event at REIZ Continental Hotel took place, by I may not mince words when I say, the Distinguished Deputy Senate President, gets firm support from the National Chairman of APC, Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje CON, who happens to be in Sa’udi Arabia, for Lesser-Hajj (Umrah) when Barau was welcoming Eng. Buhari, Gwagwarwa and many others from SDP.

But as usual, Ganduje’s support, spirit, sense of reasoning, sound endorsement and self – confidence were there with the Distinguished Senator. As the National Chairman was ably represented at the occasion by the Deputy National Chairman (South), Chief Emeka Eneukwu, who stayed throughout the period.

The visibility and political engagements of Senator Barau means a lot for his constituency, Kano State and Northwest if you like. Many see him as one of the major APC organs in the country, that consistently untie ploys upon ploys from opposition circle. An effort that makes his constituency and Kano State proud. A morale booster.

Looking ready and energetic almost all the time. With the multifaceted responsibilities on his shoulders. From his constituency, to his state, the Red Chamber, through his geo-political zone, in tandem with the national interest up to Africa’s sub-regional legislative responsibilities. Kai kamar ba mutum ba! (laugher).

On the other hand, I came across a letter formally written by one of the sensitive offices of the National Association of Nigerian Students, (NANS), office of the Director Peace, Integration and Reconciliation, Zone A, Comrade Magaji Kabiru Gulu, addressed to the Deputy Senate President, hailing his patriotic posture and critical thinking for raising creative minds in Northwest through his recently inaugurated Barau Initiative for Agricultural Revolution in Northwest, Agricultural Support Programme.

Of which young millionaires would be produced in our agricultural value chain from across all the 7 states of Northwest. The students body believes, this will go a long way in suppressing youth restiveness, lingering wallowing in (absolute?) poverty, reducing unemployment rate, among other missteps.

In the letter, Comrade Gulu posits that, “Your Initiative is a testament of your commitment to empowering young graduates in the Northwest region. This programme will undoubtedly provide them with the necessary support and resources to thrive in agriculture. Thereby contributing to the region’s economic growth and development.”

Adding that, “We appreciate your dedication to the welfare of our young people and your effort to create opportunities for them to succeed. Your leadership vision are truly inspiring. We are grateful for your service to our nation.”

Expectedly, students themselves appreciate Barau’s unrelenting service to the nation. This acknowledgement not only speaks volumes, it also means, in categorical term, that, there exists a leader who identifies himself with the plight of our teeming youth. Such and similar groups only need a sound system of retouch, reengineering, redesign and networking.

Anwar, was Chief Press Secretary to the former Governor of Kano State, Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje CON, and can be reached at fatimanbaba1@gmail.com
20th March, 2025