By: Adamu Muhd Usman
“The challenge is not to manage time, but to manage ourselves.”
— Stephen R. Covey
Yesterday is the past, tomorrow is the future, but today is a gift—hence it is called the present. These powerful words emphasize action, belief, and self-worth, captured in expressions such as “Make it count,” “Never give up,” and “Believe you can.”
I am inspired to reflect on these ideals in relation to Malam Umar Namadi (FCA), Dan Modi, the fifth Governor of Jigawa State, following H.E. Barr. Ali Sa’ad, H.E. Senator Ibrahim Saminu Turaki, H.E. Dr. Sule Lamido (CON), and H.E. Alhaji Muhammad Badaru Abubakar.
My purpose here is to respectfully raise five critical issues and seek the Governor’s attention, responses, and actions. I believe Malam Umar is a leader endowed with wisdom and the capacity to make sound decisions. Nonetheless, even the greatest leaders benefit from sincere advice and constructive suggestions, including those from opposition voices such as the PDP—especially when they come from individuals who genuinely desire the success of the leader and the progress of the state.
Some may question why I offer advice or suggestions to Malam Umar. Simply put, I am not everyone else, and they are not me.
While there have been allegations portraying Dan Modi as someone who holds grudges, has a quick temper, or rarely lets go of past grievances, I recognize that Malam Umar is human and, like all humans, imperfect. I firmly believe that despite these perceived shortcomings, he can amend, improve, and excel as Governor of Jigawa State by the special grace of God.
Life teaches us that if we are not careful, rumors and allegations can make us hate the innocent and admire hypocrites or enviers. People may attempt to tarnish your image, but they cannot erase your good deeds. No matter how one is described, those who truly know the person will continue to respect and appreciate them.
As Paulo Coelho said, “Don’t waste your time with explanations; people only hear what they want to hear.” Action speaks louder than words. The greatest lesson in life is to listen and learn from everyone, because nobody knows everything, but everyone knows something.
I therefore use this medium to appeal to the Governor of Jigawa State, Malam Umar Namadi, to give priority attention to the following issues. As Goethe observed, “We always have time enough if we will but use it aright,” while Warren Bennis reminds us that “Managers have their eyes on the bottom line; leaders have their eyes on the horizon.”
My Five Critical Questions
Jigawa State University, Kafin-Hausa:
His Excellency Dr. Sule Lamido established Jigawa State University, Kafin-Hausa, to expand access to higher education for indigenes who previously struggled to gain admission elsewhere. Within three to four years, the institution became functional. Given that Dr. Lamido hailed from Bamaina, Birnin-Kudu Local Government, in the Dutse Senatorial Zone, what has prevented Malam Umar—himself a native of Kafin-Hausa—from completing even a single Faculty of Medicine in nearly three years? Additionally, programmes such as Mass Communication, Law, and Engineering were expected to be developed, but unfortunately, this has not materialized.
Absence of Local Government Secretaries:
For over a year, all 27 Local Government Areas have operated without appointed secretaries since the elected chairmen assumed office. This vacuum has severely weakened administrative efficiency and political coordination across the state. What is delaying their appointment?
Lack of Education Secretaries:
The Local Government Education Authorities across the state have also been without education secretaries for several months. Why is this critical sector—central to human and societal development—being neglected?
₦4 Billion Flood Intervention Fund:
It is on record that the Jigawa State Government set aside over ₦4 billion to address potential flood disasters. While we thank God that 2025 did not witness destructive flooding, what is the fate of this fund? Will it be saved for future emergencies, reallocated transparently, or allowed to disappear without accountability?
Solar Streetlight Project:
Reports indicate that all 27 local government headquarters are to receive solar streetlights. What is the current status of this project? I urge the Governor to reconsider any plan to replace the existing Lamido-era streetlights, which are more extensive and arguably more effective than the proposed solar alternatives. If these old lights are removed, what happens to the existing bulbs, poles, and cables? Experts suggest that the value of the cables alone could exceed the cost of installing solar streetlights. The government should consult widely to ensure this project truly serves the people. Personally, I believe solar lights should be installed in areas currently without streetlights, while the existing ones should be retained and, given improvements in power supply (NEPA/KEDCO), possibly reconnected to the grid.
Conclusion
At this juncture, I urge the Governor to take decisive action and become a true blessing to Jigawa State. Not all blessings come in the form of money or material possessions. Sometimes, the greatest blessing is having a faithful, honest, transparent, and compassionate leader.
One of the highest compliments a leader can receive is to be told, “You are different.” Malam Umar, strive to be different and a genuine blessing to Jigawa State. I wish you well.
Jigawa of my dreams.
Adamu writes from Kafin-Hausa, Jigawa State.
