A Lesson in Governance: My Experience with His Excellency, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje
By: Dr. Sagir S. Buhari, FCIA
As a dedicated member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and as a loyal Nigerian, I feel compelled to speak out on issues that affect our great nation. I promote our party’s policies and projects while also highlighting areas where we can improve. As leaders, it’s essential we acknowledge areas where we can improve. By doing so, we demonstrate our commitment to serving Nigerians, who entrusted us with power. I believe in accountability and constructive criticism. When our party makes mistakes or falls short of its ideals, I don’t hesitate to offer private counsel to our leaders, urging them to take corrective actions.
My approach is guided by a deep sense of patriotism and a commitment to the values of transparency, accountability, and good governance. I believe that by working together, we can build a brighter future for Nigeria.
I believe privately talking or writing to your party leaders confidentially to make amends brings more positive results. I can recall when I was appointed to serve as Director General, Research and Documentation Directorate, Government House by His Excellency, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, Former Governor of Kano State. After we undertook some research on schools, roads, and hospitals that were in dilapidated situations, one of my staff said, “DG, don’t send such to the Governor, he will not be happy.” I smiled and said to him, “The Governor appointed me to tell him the truth. I am not only going to write to him, but I will also send him pictures for him to see the critical situation.” Which I wrote administratively and forwarded the file. Within a few days, the Governor acted and called for the total renovations of the schools, roads, and hospitals. To Allah be the glory and we succeeded.
Telling your leaders the truth privately without any fear or favor endeared mutual trust. This is one of the reasons His Excellency Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje also recommended and forwarded my name to be appointed by Mr. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as Member, Governing Council, Federal Polytechnic Kabo, Kano. I have never been afraid to say it as it is. I am a trained administrator and, fortunately, a political scientist who understands what governance is all about.
I don’t write to gain any favor from any person or group of people, but to contribute to the discourse on issues that matter. I spent my time and energy to write and publish my articles with my own personal funds, driven by a desire to see a better life for Nigerians and positive change in our nation. Power and authority belong to Allah (SWT).
God bless Nigeria.
Dr. Sagir S. Buhari, FCIA
Studied Political Science and International Relations
buharisageer@gmail.com
23rd May, 2025
