Guild of Interfaith Media Practitioners (GIMP), has called on Faith Leaders across the country to reflect on spiritual message of Good Friday, and Easter by promoting love among the diverse people of the world. The group stressed the need for Christians in particular, to take advantage of Jesus Christ’s crucifixion to reflect on the imperative of sacrifice and religious tolerance in serving God. The chairman of the group, Abdulkarim Abdulmalik, in a goodwill message to Christians as they observe Easter, said that Good Friday is a day of remembrance, and also an occasion that calls for peace, understanding and shared human values amidst the nation’s diversity. He observed that the diversity in the polity calls for the universal recognition of interfaith harmony as the common denominator of the quest for world peace. Making reference to the World Council of Churches (WCC) which believed that Good Friday is a time for Christians to reflect on their own faith and to show respect for the beliefs and practices of other religious communities, Abdulmalik advised other faiths leaders to compliment the Council in spreading the message of glad tidings. He observed that WCC’s call for peace and tolerance among the Christians, Jews, Muslims and a spirit of unity and respect in Jerusalem, places a burden on faith leaders in Nigeria to replicate the message in such call, adding that they should advise adherents of their respective faiths to eschew religious hostility and bigotry. He said that GIMP was formed to promote interfaith peace and harmony through the mass media, and appealed to media professionals in Nigeria to join hands with the Guild in advancing this onerous ethical social responsibility. Abdulmalik urged journalists and religious leaders to join hands with the government in fighting insurgency, banditry and kidnapping in Nigeria. According to him, the attack on hapless victims is a pointer to the need for a strong jnterfaith collaboration with the government for a precision fight against criminality in the country.
“Nigeria is in a full-blown state of emergency. Not a contrived political emergency like what Tinubu declared in Rivers for partisan gain — this is a national collapse. “So when, exactly, will Tinubu declare a state of emergency on his own disastrous presidency?” These were contained in a statement today, April 16, by the former Nigeria’s Vice President and leader of the main opposition political party, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Alhaji Atku Abubakar. In the statement, issued on his behalf by his spokesman, Paul Ibe, Atiku recalled that President Bola Tinubu flew out to France on April 2, 2025. “Had this absurd announcement (of his journey to France) come just a day earlier, Nigerians would have dismissed it as an April Fool’s joke. But sadly, it’s no prank — just another insult to a nation pushed to the brink by a presidency that treats its citizens like fools. “The official excuse? A so-called “working visit.” But Nigerians aren’t buying the spin. ‘The presidency scrambled to clarify that it wasn’t a medical trip — how noble. But even if it’s not medical tourism, what justification is there for gallivanting across Europe while Nigeria bleeds? What kind of leader borrows billions only to blow scarce funds on vanity trips abroad? It’s not just irresponsible— it’s contemptuous. “Let the facts speak for themselves. By the time Tinubu struts back from this latest escapade, he will have racked up a staggering 59 days in France since assuming office. “See Paris and die?” No — see Paris and abandon your country. “While Tinubu dines under chandeliers in the land of good governance, the country he governs is spiraling into chaos. Plateau has turned into a killing field — over 100 lives lost in relentless attacks. Benue is bleeding. Boko Haram is seizing territory. And every single day, Nigerians sink deeper into poverty, insecurity, and despair. “This isn’t just negligence. It’s dereliction of duty on a catastrophic scale. “If Tinubu had even a shred of empathy, he would cut his trip short and return immediately. “A leader with an ounce of patriotism wouldn’t need to be begged to show up in times of crisis. “The constitution says the security and welfare of the people is the primary purpose of government. But under Tinubu, that sacred duty has been trashed. “Let’s be honest: there is absolutely nothing Tinubu is doing in France that he couldn’t do in Lagos, or even in Iragbiji. This so-called “working visit” is nothing more than a vacation cloaked in official jargon.”
The sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, has declared social media as a terrorist organisation. “Security agencies must deal with this terrorist organisation called social media.” The sultan, who spoke at the seventh executive committee meeting of the Northern Traditional Rulers’ Council in Maiduguri, explained: “What they do… somebody will sit in his comfort zone and formulate stories, and you will think that it is true. So, social media is a terrorist organisation that we must deal with.” He said that Nigerians must not allow misinformation and fabricated stories on social media to worsen the country’s fragile security situation. “What happened has happened. It can’t come and be through social media. “That’s one terrorist organisation…social media. Social media is a terrorist organisation.” Sultan Abubakar said that the attacks on Plateau and other parts of the country were “worrisome” and require urgent attention. “So, we are not happy with what is happening either on the Plateau or other places.” In a statement on Monday, Amnesty International said the death toll from the recent attack on the Plateau had risen to 54. According to the rights group, hundreds of people have been displaced since the incident and residents are living in fear of another possible attack.
The three arms of government: Federal, States and the Local Governments have shared a total of N1.578 trillion, being March 2025 Federation Account Revenue. The revenue was shared at the April 2025 Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) meeting held in Abuja today, April 15. The total distributable revenue of N1.578 trillion comprised distributable statutory revenue of N931.325 billion, distributable Value Added Tax (VAT) revenue of N 593.750 billion, Electronic Money Transfer Levy (EMTL) revenue of N24.971 billion and Exchange Difference revenue of N28.711 billion. A communiqué issued by the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) indicated that total gross revenue of N2.411 trillion was available in the month of March 2025. Total deduction for cost of collection was N85.376 billion while total transfers, interventions and refunds was N747.180 billion. The communiqué said that gross statutory revenue of N1.718 trillion was received for the month of March 2025. This was higher than the sum of N1.653 trillion received in the month of February 2025 by N65.422 billion. Gross revenue of N637.618 billion was available from the Value Added Tax (VAT) in March 2025. This was lower than the N654.456 billion available in the month of February 2025 by N16.838 billion. The communiqué said that from the total distributable revenue of N1.578 trillion, the Federal Government received total sum of N528.696 billion and the State Governments received total sum of N530.448 billion. The Local Government Councils received total sum of N387.002 billion and a total sum of N132.611 billion (13% of mineral revenue) was shared to the benefiting States as derivation revenue. On the N931.325 billion distributable statutory revenue, the communiqué said that the Federal Government received N422.485 billion and the State Governments received N214.290 billion. The Local Government Councils received N165.209 billion and the sum of N129.341 billion (13% of mineral revenue) was shared to the benefiting States as derivation revenue. From the N593.750 billion distributable Value Added Tax (VAT) revenue, the Federal Government received N89.063 billion, the State Governments received N296.875 billion and the Local Government Councils received N207.813 billion. A total sum of N3.746 billion was received by the Federal Government from the N24.971 billion Electronic Money Transfer Levy (EMTL). The State Governments received N12.485 billion and the Local Government Councils received N8.740 billion. From the N28.711 billion Exchange Difference revenue, the Federal Government received N13.402 billion and the State Governments received N6.798 billion. The Local Government Councils received N5.241 billion and a total sum of N3.270 billion (13% of mineral revenue) was shared to the benefiting States as derivation revenue. In March 2025, Petroleum Profit Tax (PPT) and Companies Income Tax (CIT) increased considerably while Oil and Gas Royalty, Electronic Money Transfer Levy (EMTL), Value Added Tax (VAT), Excise Duty, Import Duty and CET Levies recorded decreases.
Nigeria’s Federal Government has declared Friday, April 18 and Monday April 21 as public holidays for Good Friday and Easter Monday, respectively. The Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, in a statement, congratulated Christians across the country on the occasion. The statement, signed on behalf of the minister by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Dr. Magdalene Ajani, stressed the importance of embodying the virtues of the sacrifice and love displayed by Jesus Christ, who died for the redemption of man. He called on Nigerians to use the holiday period to pray for the peace, unity, and stability of the nation. He reassured citizens of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s unwavering commitment to the Renewed Hope Agenda, which seeks to foster national growth and development. The minister called on Nigerians to extend love and goodwill to their neighbours through acts of kindness and generosity. He wished all Christians a blissful Easter celebration and warm holiday greetings to all Nigerians.
As Yobe State continues its journey of recovery, reconstruction, and development, the question of leadership becomes paramount, especially looking towards the 2027 electoral cycle. While political participation is the bedrock of democracy, the complexities facing the state demand more than just political maneuvering. They require deep technical competence, strategic planning, and a results-oriented approach, which is the hallmarks of technocratic leadership. This is why the prospect of a seasoned technocrat at the helm of offers is a compelling alternative to the traditional “political jobber.” Technocracy vs. Political Jobbery: Defining the Difference A technocrat is fundamentally a problem-solver, leveraging specialized knowledge and experience – whether in economics, law, engineering, administration, or other fields – to design and implement effective policies. Their approach is often data, knowledge and people driven, focused on long-term sustainability, efficiency, and measurable outcomes. They understand complex systems and prioritize competence in execution. Conversely, the term “political jobber,” often used critically, describes individuals whose primary focus might be acquiring and maintaining political power through patronage networks and short-term political calculus. While political skills are necessary to navigate governance, an over-reliance on jobbery can lead to prioritizing loyalty over competence, sacrificing long-term strategic goals for immediate political expediency, and potentially mismanaging state resources. *Yobe’s Unique Challenges Demand Expert Solutions* Yobe State stands at a critical juncture. Having weathered the storms of insurgency, the state faces the monumental task of: Consolidating Security Gains: Transitioning from stabilization to sustainable peace requires development that addresses root causes. Rebuilding Infrastructure: Roads, power, water systems, schools, and hospitals need significant upgrades and expansion after years of conflict and neglect. Unlocking Economic Potential: Vast agricultural land (sesame, gum arabic, livestock) and untapped mineral resources need strategic development and value-chain integration to create jobs and wealth. Addressing Human Capital Deficits: Improving education quality, expanding skills development, and strengthening the healthcare system are vital for the future. Ensuring Good Governance: Efficient resource management, transparency, and accountability are crucial for attracting investment and building public trust. These are not simple political talking points; they are complex developmental challenges requiring specialized knowledge and meticulous execution. This is where a technocratic approach becomes invaluable. *Kashim Musa Tumsah: A Profile in Relevant Expertise* When considering the profile needed to tackle Yobe’s specific challenges, the background of Kashim Musa Tumsah, MFR, presents a compelling case study for technocratic potential and sensibilities in his career demonstrates a blend of high-level expertise directly relevant to the state’s needs Political Knowledge: A Yobe State indigene, Mr Tumsah has garnered vast experience in political strategy and implementation, he has been involved in the political framework of Yobe state since its creation. His reach and influence has created a very loyal network of astute people across the state. Legal Acumen & Resources Law: With an LL.B (University of Maiduguri), BL (Nigerian Law School, with prizes), and a Distinction in LL.M (Resources Law and Policy, University of Dundee), Tumsah possesses deep legal understanding, especially in managing natural resources – crucial for Yobe’s agriculture and potential mineral wealth. Security Awareness: Mr Tumsah has extensive grounding in the security and intelligence community. This is a foremost skill set required in the volatile architecture of the State and will be a requisite in planning a post conflict Yobe State. The volatile and dynamic security challenges being experienced in the region requires that the next Governor of the state possess a good working knowledge of security and intelligence gathering. International Negotiation & Diplomacy: His extensive experience in international boundary negotiations (Nigeria-Cameroon, Nigeria-Equatorial Guinea, etc.), work at the Nigeria-Sao Tome & Principe Joint Development Authority (JDZ), and involvement with the ICJ case showcase high-level negotiation skills, strategic thinking, and an ability to manage complex cross-jurisdictional issues. This is vital for attracting international partners and investment. Project Management & Administration: As Executive Director, Finance and Administration at the JDZ, he was involved in managing finances, administration, and complex contracts (like Production Sharing Contracts with major oil companies). This demonstrates capacity for managing large budgets and complex organizational structures inherent in state governance. He was involved in conceptualizing, drafting, and managing treaties, agreements, and regulations for the JDZ – skills transferable to state-level policy and implementation. Practical Grounding: Tumsah is also identified as a farmer (Chairman, Alegre Integrated Farms Limited), giving him practical insight into Yobe’s primary economic sector. Demonstrated Commitment: Recent reports highlight his “Operation Light Up Yobe” initiative and provision of solar-powered boreholes, funded through personal networks. This demonstrates a proactive commitment to addressing basic infrastructure needs and an ability to leverage resources for community development, outside formal political office. *Why This Expertise Matters for Yobe in 2027* A leader with Tumsah’s profile brings specific advantages over a purely political operative: Strategic Resource Management: Expertise in resources law and managing joint development zones translates directly to optimizing Yobe’s agricultural and mineral potential, negotiating beneficial PPPs, and ensuring state assets are leveraged effectively. Infrastructure Development: Experience managing large-scale projects and understanding contractual frameworks is crucial for efficiently delivering the roads, power, water, and other infrastructure Yobe desperately needs. Investment Attraction: A background involving international negotiations and managing multi-national stakeholder interests (like in the JDZ) lends credibility and skill in attracting foreign and domestic investment. Efficient Governance: Proven administrative and financial management skills (as ED Finance & Admin) point towards a potential for more efficient, accountable, and data-driven state administration. Problem-Solving Focus: A technocrat’s training emphasizes analyzing problems and designing workable solutions, moving beyond rhetoric to tangible action plans for education, healthcare, and job creation. Conclusion: Prioritizing Competence for a Resilient Future Describing Mr. Tumsah as just another technocrat is doing a great disservice to the years of political experience he has ganered both at the Local and national levels. Kashim Tumsah has been involved in the intricacies of political manouverings in Yobe state since creation of the state. The path forward for Yobe requires more than just political maneuvering; it demands vision, expertise, and a relentless focus on execution. While political skills are essential for navigating the landscape, they must be anchored in genuine competence and a deep understanding of the developmental challenges at hand. Looking towards 2027, Yobe has the opportunity to prioritize leadership that brings proven technical skills and administrative capacity to the table. A technocrat like Kashim Musa Tumsah, with his specific blend of legal expertise, international experience, administrative capability, and demonstrated local commitment, represents the kind of leadership profile equipped to tackle Yobe’s complex challenges head-on and guide the state towards a truly secure, prosperous, and resilient future. The choice lies in valuing proven expertise and strategic vision over the potential limitations of conventional political jobbery.
Usman Abba, a public affairs analyst, wrote in from Yobe.
The International Press Institute (IPI) Nigeria has announced the appointment of prominent media personalities to its standing committees, aimed at promoting press freedom and responsible journalism in Nigeria. The committees include Fundraising, Programming, Advocacy, and Membership, each comprising seasoned industry professionals. Notable appointees include Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris; Senior Special Assistant to ex-President Muhammadu Buhari on Media and Publicity, Malam Garba Shehu; former President of the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE), Mrs. Funke Egbemode; former Managing Director of Champion Newspapers, Mr Emma Agu; and former Provost of the Nigerian Institute of Journalism, Mr Gbemiga Ogunleye. Committee Chairs and Members:* – *Fundraising Committee:* – Chair: Ms. Funke Egbemode, former President of the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) – Secretary: Alhaji Yusuf Alli, Managing Editor, Northern Operations, The Nation – Members: – Alhaji Mohammed Idris, Minister of Information and National Orientation – Juliet Bumah, Editor, New Telegraph – Garba Shehu, Senior Special Assistant to ex-President Muhammadu Buhari on Media and Publicity – Ken Ugbechie, publisher of Political Economist – Victoria Ibanga, publisher of The Next Edition – Olufunke Fadugba, Chairman of the Editorial Board of PenPushing Media – Gbemiga Ogunleye, former Provost of the Nigerian Institute of Journalism (NIJ) – *Programming Committee:* – Chair: Mr. Oladotun Oladipo, Managing Editor/CEO, Premium Eagle Limited, publishers of The Eagle Online – Secretary: Hajia Sani, Director, Digital Media at Voice of Nigeria (VON) – Members: – Hajiya Zainab Suleiman Okino, Chairman Daily of the Editorial Board of Blueprint – Dayo Aiyetan, Executive Director at The International Centre for Investigative Reporting (ICIR) – Catherine Agbo, Deputy Editor, 21st Century Chronicle – Emma Agu, former Managing Director/CEO, Champion – Ahmed I. Shekarau, CEO, Media Trust Group – *Advocacy Committee:* – Chair: Tobi Soniyi, Media Adviser to the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) – Secretary: Ochiaka Ugwu, Editor, Features, Peoples Daily – Members: – Sule Ya’u Sule, Associate Professor at Bayero University Kano – Danlami Nmodu, publisher of Newsdiaryonline – Laide Abbas, Assistant Director, News, Nigeria Television Authority (NTA) – David Ajikobi, Nigerian Editor of Africa Check – Fred Ohwahwa, former Editor at The Guardian and Senior Partner, Tokee Consult Limited – *Membership Committee:* – Chair: Ruqayyah Yusuf Aliyu, Associate Professor at Bayero University Kano – Secretary: Linda Dooyum Kpum, IPI Nigeria’s Administrative Secretary – Members: – Fidelis Mbah, Al Jazeera Media Network and Deputy President of IPI Nigeria – Naziru Mikailu Abubakar, PhD Fellow at the University of Westminster, United Kingdom – Bolanle Ismail, lecturer, Crescent University, Abeokuta The committees are tasked with key responsibilities: – The Fundraising Committee will plan, coordinate, and execute fundraising activities to support IPI Nigeria’s programs. – The Programming Committee will design initiatives and develop compelling programs aligned with IPI Nigeria’s objectives. – The Advocacy Committee will provide strategic direction for IPI Nigeria’s advocacy efforts, promoting press freedom and engaging with public officials on key policy issues. – The Membership Committee will focus on attracting new members, assessing applicants’ qualifications, and enhancing member engagement. IPI Nigeria President, Musikilu Mojeed, said that the reconstitution of these committees aims to accelerate efforts in safeguarding press freedom and promoting responsible journalism practices in Nigeria.
The Peoples Democratic Party, (PDP) Governors have distanced themselves from a coalition with opposition political parties ahead of 2027 general elections. The Governors, under the canopy of Governors’ Forum with Bauchi State governor, Bala Mohammed, as its leader, stressed that the party would not join any alliance with any political party. Rising from a meeting in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital today, April 14, the Forum backed the Deputy National Secretary, Setonji Koshoedo, as Acting National Secretary. The party’s former presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar had announced the birth of an opposition alliance, which is believed to include former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi and ex-Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, among other politicians. Atiku had said that the coalition is aimed at removing President Bola Tinubu in 2027. The announcement of the coalition came after El-Rufai defected from the All Progressives Congress to the Social Democratic Party, SDP. El-Rufai had accused the APC of lack of internal democracy since Tinubu assumed power. However, former presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party, Adewale Adebayo, had said Atiku and Obi were in talks to join the SDP. He said that if Atiku, Obi and other prominent politicians willing to join SDP can stick to the party’s culture, they would defeat and retire Tinubu and the APC. This came as a chieftain of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Buba Galadima said that El-Rufai was Atiku’s placeholder in the SDP should the PDP deny him its presidential ticket.
President Bola Tinubu has called on those who are mounting billboards across the country, campaigning for his re-election in the 2027 election to stop it. Tinubu said that while he and his Deputy, Kashim Shettima appreciated the teeming and loyal supporters across the country for their enthusiasm and continuing support, they did not support any campaign that breaches the laws of the land. A statement today, April 13, by the presidential spokesman, Bayo Onanuga goes thus: The Presidency has observed, with dismay, the increasing number of billboards in some cities promoting the 2027 campaign for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima. Worth noting is that some of these billboards with pictures of the President and his wife, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, emblazoned on them are springing up in Abuja and Kano in particular. While President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima greatly appreciate their teeming and loyal supporters across the country for their enthusiasm and continuing support, the two leaders do not support any campaign that breaches the laws of the land. The electoral law that guides the conduct of elections and political campaigns forbids any form of campaign for the 2027 general elections. Premature campaigning can undermine the integrity of the electoral process and create unfair advantages. As law-abiding leaders, President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima do not support any action that undermines our institutions and the electoral process. Until the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) sets the timetable for the 2027 elections, the President has not endorsed or authorised anyone or any group to mount a 2027 campaign for him through any media channel—be it Out-of-Home, print, digital, radio, or television. Therefore, we urgently call on individuals and groups funding this 2027 political campaign through the ongoing deployment of materials on billboards nationwide to cease immediately. President Tinubu and his deputy are fully committed to delivering the ongoing task of nation-building they have set for themselves. This commitment is evident in their focus on economic revitalisation, human capital development, infrastructural renewal, social investment, and national security. When INEC signals that the processes for the 2027 elections can start, President Tinubu will duly inform Nigerians of his plans.
Jigawa state has launched 2025 Dry Season Rice Production Programme and mechanised farming in its determination to attain 3.6 metric tonnes of rice production annually. The State Governor, Mallam Umar Namadi, who presided over the launching said that the state is being positioned as Nigeria’s leading rice producer. He emphasized that the programme targets an annual rice production of 3.6 million metric tonnes through the cultivation of 1.2 million hectares of land. Governor Namadi described the launch as a turning point in the state’s agricultural development agenda. “This event is more than just another agricultural initiative—it embodies our collective determination to position Jigawa State as Nigeria’s agricultural powerhouse and a key contributor to national food security.” The Governor said that the state is already the second-largest rice-producing state in Nigeria and that the new programme will deepen the achievement. According to him, under the initiative, 58,500 farmers will benefit from subsidized inputs such as certified seeds, fertilizers, agrochemicals, and access to irrigation equipment, including 20,000 water pumps—10,000 solar-powered and 10,000 fuel-powered—to ensure efficient water supply during the dry season. Governor Namadi said that the state has set an ambitious but achievable target.
“Our goal is to reach 500,000 hectares of dry season rice cultivation by 2030, with the long-term objective of cultivating 1.2 million hectares annually to produce 3.6 million metric tonnes of rice.” The Governor highlighted the state’s broader mechanization agenda, including the procurement of 360 tractors, 70 combine harvesters, and the establishment of the Jigawa Farm Mechanization Service Company to provide affordable mechanization services to farmers. “We are building a fully mechanized agriculture sector—from land preparation to harvesting.” Governor Namadi said that the state is implementing the Jigawa Input Voucher System to ensure accountability in input distribution. “We will not tolerate any form of malpractice—whether input diversion, loan default, or other sharp practices. These resources represent the hard work and sacrifice of all Jigawa citizens, and we will protect them vigorously.” The Technical Adviser to the Governor on Agriculture, Dr. Saifullahi Umar, in his keynote address, described rice as the bedrock of food security, a critical driver of household incomes, and a strategic commodity in our national agricultural transformation agenda. He said that the programme is built around five pillars of access to inputs, extension services, financing, climate-smart practices, and robust data systems. He said that the 58,500 participating farmers would be grouped into 1,170 clusters for ease of monitoring and support as each cluster will receive hands-on training in best agronomic practices, irrigation efficiency, and financial management. He said that extension agents will be equipped with tools such as the RiceAdvice mobile app to improve advisory services. In line with financial sustainability, the programme offers tailored input loans with flexible repayment structures. “Repayment of input loans can be made in cash or in-kind, and will be due at the end of the 2025 dry season. For solar water pump beneficiaries, we have designed a convenient installment plan spread over several seasons.”
We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By clicking “Accept”, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies.
This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience.
Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. These cookies do not store any personal information.
Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website.
“Our goal is to reach 500,000 hectares of dry season rice cultivation by 2030, with the long-term objective of cultivating 1.2 million hectares annually to produce 3.6 million metric tonnes of rice.”
2027: Between Technocratic And Political Jobber, Which Way Yobe? By Usman Abba
As Yobe State continues its journey of recovery, reconstruction, and development, the question of leadership becomes paramount, especially looking towards the 2027 electoral cycle.
While political participation is the bedrock of democracy, the complexities facing the state demand more than just political maneuvering. They require deep technical competence, strategic planning, and a results-oriented approach, which is the hallmarks of technocratic leadership.
This is why the prospect of a seasoned technocrat at the helm of offers is a compelling alternative to the traditional “political jobber.”
Technocracy vs. Political Jobbery: Defining the Difference
A technocrat is fundamentally a problem-solver, leveraging specialized knowledge and experience – whether in economics, law, engineering, administration, or other fields – to design and implement effective policies. Their approach is often data, knowledge and people driven, focused on long-term sustainability, efficiency, and measurable outcomes. They understand complex systems and prioritize competence in execution.
Conversely, the term “political jobber,” often used critically, describes individuals whose primary focus might be acquiring and maintaining political power through patronage networks and short-term political calculus. While political skills are necessary to navigate governance, an over-reliance on jobbery can lead to prioritizing loyalty over competence, sacrificing long-term strategic goals for immediate political expediency, and potentially mismanaging state resources.
*Yobe’s Unique Challenges Demand Expert Solutions*
Yobe State stands at a critical juncture. Having weathered the storms of insurgency, the state faces the monumental task of:
Consolidating Security Gains: Transitioning from stabilization to sustainable peace requires development that addresses root causes.
Rebuilding Infrastructure: Roads, power, water systems, schools, and hospitals need significant upgrades and expansion after years of conflict and neglect.
Unlocking Economic Potential: Vast agricultural land (sesame, gum arabic, livestock) and untapped mineral resources need strategic development and value-chain integration to create jobs and wealth.
Addressing Human Capital Deficits: Improving education quality, expanding skills development, and strengthening the healthcare system are vital for the future.
Ensuring Good Governance: Efficient resource management, transparency, and accountability are crucial for attracting investment and building public trust.
These are not simple political talking points; they are complex developmental challenges requiring specialized knowledge and meticulous execution. This is where a technocratic approach becomes invaluable.
*Kashim Musa Tumsah: A Profile in Relevant Expertise*
When considering the profile needed to tackle Yobe’s specific challenges, the background of Kashim Musa Tumsah, MFR, presents a compelling case study for technocratic potential and sensibilities in his career demonstrates a blend of high-level expertise directly relevant to the state’s needs
Political Knowledge: A Yobe State indigene, Mr Tumsah has garnered vast experience in political strategy and implementation, he has been involved in the political framework of Yobe state since its creation. His reach and influence has created a very loyal network of astute people across the state.
Legal Acumen & Resources Law: With an LL.B (University of Maiduguri), BL (Nigerian Law School, with prizes), and a Distinction in LL.M (Resources Law and Policy, University of Dundee), Tumsah possesses deep legal understanding, especially in managing natural resources – crucial for Yobe’s agriculture and potential mineral wealth.
Security Awareness: Mr Tumsah has extensive grounding in the security and intelligence community. This is a foremost skill set required in the volatile architecture of the State and will be a requisite in planning a post conflict Yobe State. The volatile and dynamic security challenges being experienced in the region requires that the next Governor of the state possess a good working knowledge of security and intelligence gathering.
International Negotiation & Diplomacy: His extensive experience in international boundary negotiations (Nigeria-Cameroon, Nigeria-Equatorial Guinea, etc.), work at the Nigeria-Sao Tome & Principe Joint Development Authority (JDZ), and involvement with the ICJ case showcase high-level negotiation skills, strategic thinking, and an ability to manage complex cross-jurisdictional issues. This is vital for attracting international partners and investment.
Project Management & Administration: As Executive Director, Finance and Administration at the JDZ, he was involved in managing finances, administration, and complex contracts (like Production Sharing Contracts with major oil companies). This demonstrates capacity for managing large budgets and complex organizational structures inherent in state governance. He was involved in conceptualizing, drafting, and managing treaties, agreements, and regulations for the JDZ – skills transferable to state-level policy and implementation.
Practical Grounding: Tumsah is also identified as a farmer (Chairman, Alegre Integrated Farms Limited), giving him practical insight into Yobe’s primary economic sector.
Demonstrated Commitment: Recent reports highlight his “Operation Light Up Yobe” initiative and provision of solar-powered boreholes, funded through personal networks. This demonstrates a proactive commitment to addressing basic infrastructure needs and an ability to leverage resources for community development, outside formal political office.
*Why This Expertise Matters for Yobe in 2027*
A leader with Tumsah’s profile brings specific advantages over a purely political operative:
Strategic Resource Management: Expertise in resources law and managing joint development zones translates directly to optimizing Yobe’s agricultural and mineral potential, negotiating beneficial PPPs, and ensuring state assets are leveraged effectively.
Infrastructure Development: Experience managing large-scale projects and understanding contractual frameworks is crucial for efficiently delivering the roads, power, water, and other infrastructure Yobe desperately needs.
Investment Attraction: A background involving international negotiations and managing multi-national stakeholder interests (like in the JDZ) lends credibility and skill in attracting foreign and domestic investment.
Efficient Governance: Proven administrative and financial management skills (as ED Finance & Admin) point towards a potential for more efficient, accountable, and data-driven state administration.
Problem-Solving Focus: A technocrat’s training emphasizes analyzing problems and designing workable solutions, moving beyond rhetoric to tangible action plans for education, healthcare, and job creation.
Conclusion: Prioritizing Competence for a Resilient Future
Describing Mr. Tumsah as just another technocrat is doing a great disservice to the years of political experience he has ganered both at the Local and national levels. Kashim Tumsah has been involved in the intricacies of political manouverings in Yobe state since creation of the state.
The path forward for Yobe requires more than just political maneuvering; it demands vision, expertise, and a relentless focus on execution. While political skills are essential for navigating the landscape, they must be anchored in genuine competence and a deep understanding of the developmental challenges at hand.
Looking towards 2027, Yobe has the opportunity to prioritize leadership that brings proven technical skills and administrative capacity to the table. A technocrat like Kashim Musa Tumsah, with his specific blend of legal expertise, international experience, administrative capability, and demonstrated local commitment, represents the kind of leadership profile equipped to tackle Yobe’s complex challenges head-on and guide the state towards a truly secure, prosperous, and resilient future. The choice lies in valuing proven expertise and strategic vision over the potential limitations of conventional political jobbery.
Usman Abba, a public affairs analyst, wrote in from Yobe.