By Aliyu Usman | Birnin Kebbi
Kebbi State Governor, Comrade Dr. Nasir Idris, has declared an end to the era of selfish nominations for federal appointments from the state, insisting that only individuals with proven integrity and a record of community development will henceforth be recommended for federal boards, commissions, and parastatals.
Speaking during a reception in honour of Alhaji Abubakar Mallam, the newly appointed Managing Director of Sokoto Rima River Basin Development Authority (SRRBDA), Governor Idris condemned the practice of political godfatherism where a few individuals hijack Kebbi’s federal nomination slots to advance personal interests.
“The time is gone when a few people handpick nominees for federal appointments for selfish reasons. We are now committed to rewarding service, sacrifice, and development impact,” he stated at the event held at the Government House, Birnin Kebbi.
Governor Idris revealed that the delay in issuing the appointment letter to Abubakar Mallam was the result of persistent efforts by certain individuals within and outside the state who tried to replace his nomination through underhanded means.
“Despite pressure from different quarters, I stood my ground because Abubakar Mallam is a man of the people. His record speaks for itself—he has built schools, supported Islamic education, and provided social amenities in several communities while in public service,” the governor affirmed.
Idris emphasized that his administration will continue to identify and promote selfless individuals who can complement government efforts in delivering impactful projects and empowering citizens economically.
“In the spirit of justice and equity, I have also recommended competent persons from other emirates in the state for federal appointments,” he added.
Also speaking at the event, Alhaji Ibrahim Na’Haliku, the Amirul Zabarmawa and leader of the Zabarmawa dynasty—of which both Governor Idris and Abubakar Mallam are members—described the appointment as a great honour to the Zabarmawa people across Nigeria.
“We will mobilise both human and material resources to ensure this administration continues beyond 2027,” he declared.
In a deeply emotional moment, Abubakar Mallam, nearly in tears, presented his appointment letter to the governor and praised Idris’ unwavering support and resilience in the face of political sabotage.
“I have always stood on principle, even when it kept me in the opposition. But I saw in you a compassionate and selfless leader who prioritises the people over politics. That’s why I decided to join you in moving our state forward,” he said.
Mallam’s commitment to public service is well-documented. In the run-up to the 2007 general elections, he was urged to resign from his position as Deputy Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service to contest for the governorship of Kebbi State due to his impactful work in empowering citizens across political and ethnic lines.
Though that political journey took a different turn, his recent appointment signals a renewed recognition of merit and service, setting a new tone in Kebbi State’s political and administrative culture.
— The Bureau Newspaper
