By Aliyu Usman | Birnin Kebbi
To many in Kebbi politics, Abubakar Gari Mallam (Shattiman Gwandu) is the proverbial cat with nine lives—resilient, unbroken, and ever-relevant. His recent appointment as Managing Director of the Sokoto Rima River Basin Development Authority (SRRBDA) marks yet another political resurgence of a man whose life has been defined by service, sacrifice, and an unyielding commitment to community development.
A seasoned philanthropist and grassroots politician, Mallam’s journey into public consciousness began long before partisan politics. His legacy of generosity transformed countless lives across Kebbi and neighbouring states. From securing federal jobs for young people to donating infrastructure for primary, secondary, and Islamic schools, his impact is both visible and enduring. Indeed, a secondary school in Birnin Kebbi bears his name as a testament to these efforts.
A Trailblazer in Youth Empowerment
In the early 2000s, Gari Mallam became the first to introduce a cyber café in Kebbi State at a time when internet access was nearly non-existent. That initiative, known as Equity Plaza, evolved into a multi-purpose commercial complex with hundreds of shops—creating significant employment opportunities for Kebbi’s youth.
From Customs to Campaign Trail
In 2007, responding to popular demand, Mallam resigned as Deputy Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service to contest for the governorship of Kebbi State. He joined the then All Nigeria People’s Party (ANPP), riding on a wave of overwhelming grassroots support. However, internal party politics and fears of his rising influence led to his exclusion from the ticket—despite earlier assurances.
Undeterred, Mallam defected to the Democratic Peoples Party (DPP) and became its governorship candidate. His swift rise within the DPP sent shockwaves through the political establishment, particularly among his former allies in the ANPP. Although the incumbency factor eventually edged him out, he still secured two State Assembly seats for the DPP in Birnin Kebbi Local Government—a significant feat for an opposition candidate.
Seventeen Years in the Wilderness
For 17 years, Mallam remained in the opposition, yet he never lost touch with his base. Known for his principles and refusal to compromise, he became a symbol of steadfastness in Kebbi’s political landscape.
That was until Comrade Dr. Nasir Idris emerged on the scene.
A Meeting of Minds—and Missions
When Idris became the APC gubernatorial candidate in 2023, he wasted no time in reaching out to Mallam. Recognizing his enduring political structure and unmatched popularity, Idris integrated him into his campaign, revitalizing Mallam’s political platform that many had written off since 2007.
Mallam’s mobilization across rural and urban communities proved instrumental in securing victory for Idris, now fondly referred to as Kauran Gwandu. The duo’s bond is rooted in shared values—philanthropy, humility, and a deep concern for the less privileged.
Rewarded with Purpose
In recognition of his unwavering loyalty and selfless contributions, Governor Idris recommended Mallam for the top job at SRRBDA. The appointment is more than a political reward—it is an extension of his lifelong mission to serve humanity.
As Managing Director, Mallam is expected to use his position to deepen the administration’s outreach to the poor, vulnerable, and orphaned—a cause he has championed long before it became a political tool.
“With patriotic stakeholders like Abubakar Gari Mallam onboard, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Nasir Idris can look forward to a smooth ride toward 2027,” said Abdullahi Idris Zuru, Special Adviser to the Governor on Communication and Strategy.
Indeed, even the sky may not be the limit for the cat with nine lives.
— The Bureau Newspaper
