In a country where conversations about public service too often center on missed opportunities, unmet promises, and mismanagement of state resources, it becomes all the more important to pause—and recognize those who choose to serve differently. Criticism, yes, is a civic duty. But when leadership is truly demonstrated, honest praise becomes just as essential. It nurtures a culture of accountability, dignity, and hope.
By Abubakar Abdullahi el-Kurebe
It is on this note that I write to acknowledge the uncommon display of empathy and leadership by the Deputy Governor of Niger State, His Excellency, Senior Commander Yakubu Garba, during the recent flood disaster in Mokwa Local Government Area. His response went far beyond the call of duty—it touched lives and uplifted spirits.
When the floodwaters came—displacing families, washing away homes, and threatening the livelihoods of entire communities—Deputy Governor Garba did not remain at a distance. He didn’t issue statements from behind a desk or delegate the task. Instead, he showed up. In person. Over the course of three days, he visited the affected areas, stood shoulder-to-shoulder with victims, oversaw relief efforts, and offered both material support and emotional comfort.
Those familiar with the Minna–Bida–Mokwa corridor understand the difficulty of traversing that terrain even on a good day, let alone in the midst of an emergency. Yet, Garba embraced the challenge—not as a politician seeking praise, but as a leader determined to ease the burden of his people. In doing so, he reminded us that leadership is not about holding office—it’s about showing up where people hurt the most.
This kind of response doesn’t happen in isolation. It reflects the vision of Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, under whose administration the New Niger agenda has come alive. This agenda prioritizes impact, inclusion, and governance that responds in real time to real problems. The synergy between Governor Bago and his Deputy isn’t just strategic—it’s sincere. And that sincerity is being felt where it matters most: in the lives of ordinary citizens.
Leadership is truly revealed in moments of crisis. Titles alone don’t define leaders—actions do. And in Mokwa, we saw something rare: a public official who led with humility, compassion, and purpose. These are the qualities that build trust. These are the acts that inspire confidence. These are the moments people remember.
One recent social media post by Sunday Ibrahim Hassan captured the public’s sentiment beautifully. His reflections were honest, heartfelt, and widely shared. But behind every like and comment was a deeper truth—people across Niger State, especially in communities like Lakpma, Gwada, and Kuta in Shiroro, felt a sense of pride. One of their own had risen to the moment, not as a political actor, but as a servant-leader.
Sunday may have spoken for himself, but his words echoed a collective voice—a voice of gratitude, of recognition, and of belonging. Deputy Governor Garba didn’t just perform a duty; he built a bridge between government and the governed. He reminded people that their pain is seen, their struggles acknowledged, and their dignity respected.
As citizens, we must create space for such leadership to be celebrated. Praise, when earned, is not flattery—it’s fuel. It tells our leaders that integrity matters, that presence matters, and that the people are paying attention. Remaining silent when things go right, only to speak up when things go wrong, distorts the moral balance of civic engagement.
To His Excellency, Senior Commander Yakubu Garba: this is more than a thank-you. It is a public record of appreciation. It is proof that your effort did not go unnoticed. The people of Niger State—especially from Shiroro—see you. We hear you. We are grateful.
As we continue to pray for those affected by the Mokwa floods and for greater peace and stability in our dear state, let us also lift up the kind of leadership that responds with heart and courage. For what we celebrate, we multiply.
Let this be a written endorsement—not of personality, but of principle. Of service. Of humanity. Because leadership that listens, leads, and walks with the people will always earn their trust.
Abubakar Abdullahi el-Kurebe is a public commentator and information professional from Shiroro Local Government Area, Niger State. He writes in his personal capacity.
