Opinion: IBRAHIM YAYAJI MIJINYAWA: A man whose work has made significant difference in the lives of ordinary people

Adamawa State has become well-known since 1999, when Nigeria’s democracy began to take shape.

Ibrahim Yayaji Mijinyawa is a grassroots politician who was elected as a councillor to represent Limawa ward in the then-Yola Local Government, which is now Yola-North Local Government, in 1992 on the platform of the Social Democratic Party.

During the 1990s, this writer had the opportunity to meet him while studying for a diploma degree in public administration at the former Federal University of Technology in Yola.

After completing the Diploma program, Ibrahim Yayaji Mijinyawa re-entered the realm of politics. With the division of Yola-North Local Government from Yola Local Government, he decided to run for chairman of the newly formed local government. He ran as a candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and emerged victorious with a resounding victory.

Under his leadership, the local government experienced remarkable progress that greatly affected the everyday lives of the community’s residents. It is worth noting that certain wards in the Yola-North Local Government have now established clinics to cater to the healthcare needs of their residents.

Alhaji Ibrahim Yayaji Mijinyawa made significant contributions to the community by establishing clinics in multiple wards and focussing on the restoration of primary schools. In addition, he has implemented a project to provide portable drinking water by sinking boreholes throughout the local government territory. This initiative is still ongoing at present.

With a long history in politics, he has developed a deep understanding of the field, which has shaped his perspective and attitude towards society. He strongly believes in the importance of giving back to society, whether it be through talent, wealth, wisdom, or power.

He strongly believes in and supports the principles of justice, equity, and fairness. Throughout his various roles, he has consistently applied these values, which have greatly influenced his perspective. This is evident in his time as Commissioner of Land and Survey under former Governor Mohammed Bindow Jibrilla’s administration during his initial four-year term.

He was reappointed by Governor Ahmadu Fintri after winning the 2015 election and being assigned to the Ministry of Local Government. He was also reappointed by Governor Ahmadu Fintri for his second term in the 2023 gubernatorial election. There are individuals who have doubts about his ability to handle the significant workload of a ministry responsible for the state’s local governments.

He has shown himself to be a capable and dedicated leader, committed to creating a smooth working relationship between local government areas and the state government in a short amount of time. This demonstrates his skills, resourcefulness, trustworthiness, and strong work ethic.

He possesses a unique character, showcasing outstanding leadership skills and personal qualities. He seems to have forgotten the many agreements he made with the twenty-one local government areas and the Adamawa State Government.

Governor Ahmadu Fintri credited the positive working relationship between his administration and local government councils to the dedicated collaboration of the commissioner and Ministry of Local Government Affairs employees.

The Supreme Court’s decision to grant local government autonomy will foster a harmonious and friendly relationship with the state and third-tier governments in Adamawa State. This is all thanks to the efforts of Alhaji Ibrahim Yayaji Mijinyawa, who has made sure that the language is easily understandable for everyone.

He truly deserves recognition from the entire state for his role in establishing a peaceful and beneficial connection between local government regions and the state government.

He has laid the foundation for future leaders by fostering a strong partnership between the two tiers of government in Adamawa State. Given his impressive credentials and exceptional leadership qualities, he is more than capable of assuming higher-level positions at the state or national level.

Written by

Usman Santuraki

Works as a Political and Public Affairs Analyst

writes from No. 2, Santuraki Close.

Demsawo, Jimeta—Yola

Adamawa State

08032333546,09123490602

ususanturaki37@gmail.com