Dr. Nasir Idris: Transforming Kebbi’s Infrastructure, Fostering Unity
By: Yakubu Ahmed BK
It is undeniable that Dr. Nasir Idris stands out as Kebbi’s most effective Governor since the state’s inception 34 years ago. In less than two years in office, he has shamed skeptics by dramatically reshaping the leadership landscape of Kebbi State.
He ascended to the governorship buoyed by his deep connection with the electorate, who, having come to trust him through close interactions, chose him in a one-sided contested election.
Dr. Idris’s grassroots charm, strong rapport with the populace, generous spirit, labor leadership experience, and commitment to improving the lives of the marginalized—qualities often missing in the past-played a crucial role in his election.
His performance has exceeded the promises made during his campaigns without a doubt. He arrived with determination to uplift a state long burdened by underdevelopment. The citizens had lost faith that any leader could transform the damage and neglect wrought by a mixture of average leadership turnover which lacked the vision and patriotism to steer the state toward prosperity.
Under his administration, projects worth billions of Naira focused on roads, education, healthcare, and agriculture, alongside substantial investments in empowerment initiatives, free fertilizers, solar and CNG-powered irrigation systems, and distributions of food to thousands across Kebbi, exemplified his administration’s commitment to progress.
What distinguishes his leadership from previous administrations is the unity it has fostered in Kebbi. Having collaborated with all three former democratically elected governors as a teacher and labor leader, Governor Idris adeptly united these past leaders under a common purpose.
In contrast to many states where former officials are often in conflict due to unresolved political issues, Kebbi has become a beacon of collaboration, with leaders aligning with the new vision of governance ushered in by Dr. Idris.
It is a common sight to witness former Governor Senator Adamu Aliero of the PDP, alongside former governors Saidu Dakingari and Atiku Bagudu of the APC, participating in events spearheaded by Governor Nasir Idris, all setting aside political divides to work towards the betterment of Kebbi.
A gratifying aspect of this unity is that all three former governors have embraced Dr. Idris’s leadership without dissenting voices, demonstrating a collective commitment to the state’s progress.
In Kebbi, the negative tendencies that have thwarted development in other states have been largely addressed, thanks to Dr. Idris’s inclusive leadership style and open-door policy. The recent decision by Senator Aliero and thousands of his supporters across the state to join the APC reflects the positive changes ushered in by the state government. Should Kebbi head towards a one-party democracy, the credit will be shared between Governor Idris’s admirable leadership, Senator Aliero’s patriotic willingness to collaborate for the greater good and the patriotic zeal and far sighted vision of Dakingari and Bagudu who have aligned themselves with the development-driven government of Dr Idris.
Moving forward, it is crucial for the people of Kebbi to embrace inclusivity and cooperation across political lines. The question remains whether other political players will set aside personal agendas to align with the emerging focus on prioritizing the welfare of the citizens.
Dr. Nasir Idris is undoubtedly the transformative force that Kebbi needed to unlock its full potential and drive sustainable development.
Ahmed BK is the Commissioner for Information and Culture, Kebbi state
