Another Veteran, Usman Bello Retires From Service at 60
By Sunusi K/Naisa
The Kano State Ministry of Information and Internal Affairs has formally bid farewell to one of its most distinguished and dedicated officers, Malam Usman Bello, who retired from the civil service upon attaining the mandatory retirement age of 60. His exit marks the culmination of over three decades of impactful service defined by professionalism, innovation, and institutional transformation within the state public sector.
Malam Bello’s retirement, effective April 14, 2026, represents not just the end of a career but the closing of a significant chapter in the evolution of information management and administrative coordination within Kano State. Widely respected among colleagues, stakeholders, and the media community, his contributions have left an enduring imprint on the ministry and beyond.
Born on April 14, 1966, Malam Usman Bello began his academic journey at the Jarkasa Special Primary School. He attended the renowned Rumfa College, Kano. His pursuit for higher education led him to Bayero University, Kano, where he obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Mass Communication in 1991. This academic foundation played a critical role in shaping his analytical depth, communication expertise, and administrative competence, all of which became hallmarks of his professional career.
Following the successful completion of his National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) programme at the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) in Port Harcourt, Bello joined the Kano State civil service on December 10, 1992. From the outset, he distinguished himself through discipline, intellectual rigour, and a strong commitment to public service values. These qualities enabled his steady rise through the ranks, culminating into his appointment as a Director.
Throughout his career, Malam Bello served as Public Relations Officer in several strategic ministries, including the Ministries of Education, Works and Housing, and Agriculture and Natural Resources, Office of Head of Civil Service, Office the Deputy Governor among others.
His versatility and administrative acumen saw him taking on key responsibilities across these sectors, contributing meaningfully to policy communication, stakeholder engagement, and institutional development.
Notably, he served as Public Relations Officer and later as Director of Press in the Office of the Deputy Governor during the second tenure of former Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje and Prof. Hafiz Abubakar respectively. In these roles, he played a crucial part in managing government communications, strengthening media relations, and ensuring effective dissemination of public information. His work significantly enhanced transparency and public trust in governance processes.
One of the defining phases of his career came with his deployment in 2021 to oversee the Department of Internal Affairs as Director. At the time, the department was largely limited in scope, primarily known for organising annual ceremonial activities such as Independence Day celebrations. However, under Bello’s leadership, the department underwent a remarkable transformation.
He spearheaded a comprehensive review of its mandates, repositioning it into a dynamic and functional unit within the ministry. Through strategic planning and collaboration with his team, several innovative programmes were introduced to expand the department’s relevance and operational impact.
Among these initiatives was the strengthening of the citizenship interview process, ensuring that all foreigners seeking citizenship certification adhered strictly to due process. This reform enhanced accountability and aligned the department’s operations with national standards.
In addition, Malam Bello introduced a revenue generation drive that created a sustainable income stream for the state government. Through effective collaboration with the Kano State Board of Internal Revenue, the department began generating at least ₦2 million monthly.
This initiative was formally recognised and gazetted by the Kano State House of Assembly, highlighting its significance and legitimacy.
His tenure also witnessed the restoration of the department’s institutional relevance, often described by colleagues as the “revival of its lost glory.” He strengthened coordination between the ministry and the Federal Ministry of Interior, thereby improving intergovernmental relations and operational synergy.
During his period as Acting Permanent Secretary, Malam Bello further demonstrated exceptional leadership by fostering harmony between staff and top management. He prioritised teamwork, transparency, and effective communication, which significantly improved productivity and morale across the ministry.
Recognising the importance of modern tools in public administration, he also ensured the provision of essential working facilities, including computers and office equipment, to principal officers. This intervention enhanced efficiency and aligned the ministry’s operations with contemporary administrative standards.
Beyond his official duties, Malam Bello was deeply committed to professional development and union activities. His involvement with the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Information Chapel, was particularly noteworthy. Serving first as Financial Secretary and later as Chairman, he introduced several initiatives aimed at improving staff welfare and capacity building.
One of his most impactful contributions was the introduction of a rice revolving scheme designed to support members financially. The initiative allowed beneficiaries to access subsidised rice and repay in instalments, providing much-needed relief during challenging economic periods.
In the area of capacity development, he established the first NUJ’s computer training centre at ministry, equipping staff with essential digital skills and enhancing their professional competence in an increasingly technology-driven environment.
His leadership qualities earned him recognition beyond the chapel level. In 2011, he contested for the position of NUJ State Chairman, reflecting his ambition to further serve and strengthen the union. Although he did not secure the position, his commitment remained unwavering. He later served as Secretary of the NUJ Kano State Council, where he played a pivotal role in organisational strengthening and policy implementation.
Malam Bello is also an active member of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), reflecting his dedication to professional ethics and continuous learning. He was 2 terms Secretary of the state chapter of the institute Additionally, he has been involved in community development efforts through organisations such as the Masalaha Community Development Association, contributing to grassroots initiatives and social cohesion.
Colleagues and associates widely describe him as humble, patient, and deeply compassionate. His interpersonal skills and humanitarian disposition endeared him to many, making him not just a respected administrator but also a mentor and role model to younger officers.
As a family man, he remains devoted to his wife and children, balancing professional excellence with personal responsibility. His ability to maintain this balance further underscores the discipline and values that defined his life and career.
In a congratulatory message, Stentor Communication and General Enterprises, publishers of The Stentor News (Online), described Malam Usman Bello as an iconic public servant and veteran journalist whose contributions to Kano State and the media profession will remain indelible. The organisation praised his dedication, integrity, and lasting impact on public administration and journalism in Northern Nigeria.
As he transitions into retirement, stakeholders across government, media, and civil society acknowledge that Malam Bello leaves behind a legacy of innovation, service, and institutional growth. His reforms within the Department of Internal Affairs, commitment to staff welfare, and contributions to journalism have set standards that will continue to inspire future generations of public servants.
While his departure creates a vacuum, it also offers an opportunity for reflection on the values of dedication, accountability, and visionary leadership that he embodied throughout his career. For many in Kano State and beyond, Malam Usman Bello’s story is a testament to the enduring impact of committed public service.
