By Haruna Usman, Birnin Kebbi
Governor Nasir Idris of Kebbi State has declared that, henceforth, only persons with a record of proven integrity and contributions to community development will be recommended for appointment into the federal government’s boards and commissions.
He stressed that the era of hijacking Kebbi State allocation of membership of boards, parastatals, and commissions by individuals and singlehandedly nominating people of their choice is over.
Idris made the declarations at a reception organised by the family, friends, political associates and well wishers, in honour of the newly appointed Managing Director of Sokoto Rima River Basin Development Authority (SRRBDA) Alhaji Abubakar Mallam, at the Government House, Birnin Kebbi.
He disclosed that the delay witnessed in issuing the letter of appointments to Abubakar Mallam was caused by several attempts made by some individuals in the state and beyond to replace his nomination by all means, but the governor said stood my ground.
According to him, “In Kebbi and neighbouring states, nobody needs to be reminded that Abubakar Mallam has been generous, accommodating, supportive and undertaking construction of schools including Islamic and provision of social amenities in different parts of the state, when he was in active service “.
He pledged to continue to identify selfless people who will use any opportunity to complement the efforts being made by his administration in executing viable projects and economically empower individuals and groups, adding that he has identified and recommended more people from other emirates in the spirit of justice and equity for additional appointments.
In his remarks, the leader of the Zoramawa dynasty (where both the Comrade Governor and Abubakar Mallam belong), Alhaji Ibrahim Na’ haliku described the appointment as a great honour to the entire Zabarmawa in Nigeria.
With the honour and involvement of many of them in both the state and federal government’s agencies, “We will mobilise both human and material resources to ensure your continuity beyond 2027”.
Almost in tears, the new Managing Director, while presenting his appointment letter to the Governor, couldn’t hide his happiness and joy for Comrade Idris doggedness and firm commitment in making his appointment a reality.
According to him, based on principle, he has been in the opposition all through because of the incompatibility of his principle and that of the powers that be.
Abubakar Mallam was, preparatory to 2007 elections, requested to resign from his position of Deputy Comptroller General of the Nigerian Customs Service and come home to contest for the governorship election in view of his contribution to community development and generous economic empowerment regardless of political and ethnic affiliations. “What happened there after is now history Shattima”, added.