IT is with a heart filled with profound gratitude, respect, and an unwavering sense of loyalty that I, Comrade Mohammed Garba, pen down this heartfelt tribute to a leader, mentor, and father-figure whose impact on my life is immeasurable, His Excellency, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, OFR.
My journey with Dr. Ganduje began many years ago, in the corridors of Kano State governance, during his time as the Deputy Governor to Senator Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso. It was during that critical period that he first extended to me the kind of trust, opportunity, and mentorship that forever changed the trajectory of my life and career.
I was appointed as Chief Press Secretary in his office, a role that not only gave me a front-row seat to observe leadership at its finest, but also offered me the privilege to learn under one of the most experienced and strategically minded politicians Nigeria has ever produced. From those early days, Dr. Ganduje saw potential in me, not just as an aide, but as a partner in progress, and that belief in my capacity gave me the courage to grow, to contribute, and to lead in my own right.
As the years passed, our bond grew stronger. I have watched Dr. Ganduje navigate the complex terrains of politics and governance with wisdom, patience, and unwavering commitment to the people of Kano and Nigeria at large. He rose to become the Executive Governor of Kano State, and under his leadership, I was once again given more responsibilities that propelled my public service career to greater heights. At every step, he ensured I had his full support, morally, professionally, and even personally.
He did not only provide me with positions and titles; he gave me mentorship, guidance, and access to platforms where I could grow and make meaningful contributions. His belief in loyalty, capacity, and sincerity has inspired so many of us who worked closely with him. He has always carried a clean heart, never vengeful, never vindictive. It is this purity of heart that continues to earn him divine protection and public admiration, no matter the challenges.
Today, as many take stock of his contributions to national politics, including his recent stewardship as National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) I reflect deeply on how much he has done for me personally. The truth is, I am a living testament to Dr. Ganduje’s generosity, leadership, and ability to raise men from humble beginnings to positions of honor and relevance.
To say that he helped my life is an understatement. He transformed it. And for that, I shall remain eternally grateful.
My loyalty to Dr. Ganduje is not born out of politics; it is born out of conviction, experience, and a sense of moral responsibility to stand with the one who stood with me when I had little. His vision continues to inspire, and his wisdom continues to guide us all.
No matter what the future holds, I want to state it clearly and publicly: I will remain with Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, in sunshine and in storm. He has done more than enough to deserve my allegiance. His legacy will outlive positions and offices, and generations to come will speak of the lives he uplifted – I, Comrade Mohammed Garba, being one of them.
May Allah continue to bless Dr. Ganduje with good health, long life, and continued relevance. May He never put him to shame, for a heart as clean and loyal as his deserves only honor and divine favor.
- Garba was Chief of Staff to the immediate past National Chairman of the APC, Umar Ganduje.
