By Ahmed Idris
.Beyond political affiliations and differences, genuine progress deserves recognition. We must have the courage to acknowledge visible achievements, appreciate meaningful development and collectively encourage initiatives that lay a solid foundation for a more prosperous and sustainable future.
Development is a continuous process that requires visionary leadership, commitment, purposeful governance and the collective support of the people. For decades, Kebbi State has aspired to achieve meaningful development across critical sectors, improve the living conditions of its citizens and create opportunities for future generations.
Today, by the grace of Almighty Allah, Kebbi State is witnessing renewed development and transformation under the purposeful leadership of His Excellency, Comrade Dr. Nasir Idris, Kauran Gwandu.
Since assuming office, Governor Nasir Idris has demonstrated a strong commitment to transforming the state through the execution of developmental projects, the improvement of public infrastructure, investment in human capital development and the implementation of policies aimed at improving the welfare of the people.
Within three years in office, the administration has embarked on numerous projects, completed several initiatives and continued to implement programmes designed to address the developmental needs of the state. These achievements deserve recognition and objective assessment, irrespective of political affiliations or personal differences.
In my considered opinion, the level of developmental activities witnessed across Kebbi State within this relatively short period is remarkable and represents one of the most significant phases of development in the history of the state since its creation.
This is not to suggest that the administration has no challenges or that every decision taken by the government must receive universal approval. In every democratic society, different opinions are inevitable, and constructive criticism remains an important instrument for strengthening governance. However, fairness, objectivity and sincerity demand that genuine achievements should not be denied simply because of political sentiments.
DEVELOPMENT BEYOND POLITICAL SENTIMENTS
One of the greatest challenges facing political development in our society is the tendency to allow political differences to overshadow objective reasoning. Unfortunately, some people have become so deeply attached to their political positions that they find it difficult to acknowledge positive developments, even when such achievements are visible.
Kebbi State deserves better than this.
Our collective responsibility should be to encourage anything that contributes positively to the development of our state, regardless of who initiates it. When a government performs well, it deserves commendation. Where there are shortcomings, constructive suggestions should be offered to ensure improvement.
We must understand that development is not a competition between political parties or individuals. It is about improving the quality of life of ordinary citizens, creating opportunities for young people, empowering women, strengthening institutions and providing an environment where businesses and communities can prosper.
Under Governor Nasir Idris, the government has demonstrated its determination to address developmental challenges through interventions in several sectors, including education, healthcare, infrastructure, agriculture, security, youth empowerment, employment and other critical areas of governance.
These interventions reflect an administration that recognises the importance of balanced development and understands that the progress of a state cannot be measured by infrastructure alone but also by the wellbeing, opportunities and future prospects of its people.
HUMAN CAPITAL DEVELOPMENT: INVESTING IN THE PEOPLE
One of the most important responsibilities of any responsible government is investment in human capital development. Roads, bridges, schools and hospitals are essential, but the ultimate purpose of development is to improve human lives.
The Nasir Idris administration has continued to place considerable attention on education, healthcare, youth development and other social interventions aimed at improving the capacity and welfare of the people.
Education remains a critical foundation for sustainable development. Any investment in the education sector is an investment in the future of Kebbi State. Providing a conducive learning environment, supporting educational institutions, improving access to education and creating opportunities for students are among the measures necessary to prepare the next generation for leadership and productive engagement.
Similarly, improvements in healthcare delivery are essential to building a healthy and productive society. The government’s attention to healthcare infrastructure, medical services and other health-related interventions demonstrates the importance attached to the wellbeing of citizens.
The administration’s efforts in youth empowerment and employment opportunities also deserve recognition. Our young people represent the strength and future of Kebbi State. They need opportunities, encouragement and an enabling environment to contribute meaningfully to society.
A government that invests in its young population is laying a solid foundation for sustainable economic growth and social stability.
SECURITY AND THE PRESERVATION OF PEACE
Security remains one of the most important responsibilities of government. Without peace and security, meaningful development becomes difficult, businesses struggle, farmers cannot operate freely, and communities face uncertainty.
Kebbi State has experienced security challenges like several other states in the country. However, the protection of lives and property remains a priority that requires continuous attention, cooperation and collaboration among security agencies, traditional institutions, community leaders and residents.
The commitment of the state government to supporting security operations and strengthening collaboration with relevant stakeholders is an important aspect of its governance responsibility.
We must recognise that security is not the responsibility of government alone. Citizens also have important roles to play by providing credible information, supporting lawful security initiatives and promoting peaceful coexistence among communities.
Our collective interest should be to preserve the peace for which Kebbi State has historically been known.
AN INCLUSIVE GOVERNMENT FOR ALL
Another important feature of the Nasir Idris administration is its emphasis on inclusiveness and broad participation in governance.
Leadership should not be about serving only those who supported a particular candidate during an election. Once elected, a governor becomes the leader of the entire state, irrespective of political affiliations, ethnic backgrounds, religious differences or geographical locations.
The people of Kebbi State deserve equal opportunities and access to government programmes and services.
An inclusive government recognises the contributions of different groups, accommodates diverse opinions and creates opportunities for people to participate in the development process.
This is the spirit that should guide governance in our beloved state. Political differences should never become barriers to development or prevent citizens from benefiting from government policies and programmes.
OPPOSITION POLITICS SHOULD BE ABOUT ISSUES, NOT BLACKMAIL
My greatest concern, however, is the growing tendency among some opposition elements to use social media platforms to attack, misrepresent and discredit the state government through allegations and narratives that are not always supported by verifiable facts.
Democracy provides room for opposition, criticism and alternative political opinions. Indeed, a responsible opposition is necessary for a healthy democratic system because it helps to hold government accountable and offers alternative approaches to governance.
However, there is a clear difference between constructive criticism and deliberate attempts to mislead the public.
Opposition parties and political stakeholders should concentrate on presenting their programmes, policies, ideas and alternative visions for the development of Kebbi State rather than engaging in campaigns of calumny, personal attacks and unsubstantiated allegations.
If there are genuine concerns about government policies or projects, such issues should be raised with facts, evidence and constructive recommendations.
Social media should be used as a platform for promoting meaningful discussions, sharing credible information and encouraging development, not as an instrument for spreading misinformation or creating unnecessary divisions among the people.
The people of Kebbi State deserve political discussions that are based on facts, accountability and the genuine interest of the state.
Governor Nasir Idris, like every other political leader, is not above criticism. But criticism must be fair, responsible and based on verifiable information.
KEBBI STATE MUST NOT LOSE ITS UNITY TO POLITICAL DIFFERENCES
Historically, Kebbi State has been recognised for its peaceful atmosphere, respect for traditional institutions, cultural values and strong sense of community.
Our people have always demonstrated a remarkable capacity to live together, respect one another and maintain peaceful relationships despite differences in political opinions.
It is therefore important that we preserve this valuable identity.
Political competition should not destroy the unity that binds us together as a people. Elections will come and go, political parties will compete, and individuals will express different opinions, but Kebbi State will remain our common home.
No political ambition should be greater than the collective interest of our people.
We must learn to disagree without becoming enemies. We must allow political differences to strengthen democratic participation rather than create unnecessary divisions.
The development of Kebbi State requires the contributions of everybody, including those in government, opposition parties, traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil society organisations, business communities, youth groups and ordinary citizens.
THE 2027 POLITICAL FUTURE AND THE NEED FOR CONTINUITY
As the political atmosphere gradually develops towards the 2027 general elections, it is important for the people of Kebbi State to reflect on the direction of governance, the achievements recorded so far and the developmental plans being pursued by the present administration.
Leadership is about vision, commitment, performance and the ability to translate promises into tangible results.
In my personal assessment, Governor Comrade Dr. Nasir Idris has demonstrated a commitment to the development of Kebbi State that deserves serious consideration as the people look towards the future.
I strongly believe that continuity in leadership, where supported by satisfactory performance and the democratic choice of the electorate, can provide an opportunity to consolidate ongoing projects, strengthen existing policies and pursue new developmental initiatives.
The people of Kebbi State should therefore assess the administration based on its record, performance, policies and capacity to deliver more dividends of democracy.
For me, I believe Governor Nasir Idris deserves the opportunity to continue his developmental agenda beyond 2027. I also believe that many citizens who appreciate the administration’s performance may consider supporting him for a second term.
Ultimately, however, the decision belongs to the people and must be expressed through the democratic process.
THE FUTURE OF KEBBI STATE IS A COLLECTIVE RESPONSIBILITY
One question that should occupy our minds is this: If the current developmental efforts are sustained, strengthened and supported over the coming years, what can Kebbi State become?
The possibilities are enormous.
With sustained investment in infrastructure, education, healthcare, agriculture, security, industrial development, youth empowerment and other productive sectors, Kebbi State has the potential to emerge as one of the leading states in Nigeria in terms of development and economic opportunities.
Our state is blessed with abundant agricultural resources, hardworking people, rich cultural heritage and enormous economic potential. What we need is consistent leadership, effective implementation of policies, accountability and the collective determination of our people to move forward.
I therefore appeal to the people of Kebbi State not to allow political sentiments, personal interests or partisan considerations to blindfold them from recognising genuine progress.
Let us tell our story ourselves. Let us acknowledge what has been achieved, identify areas requiring improvement and encourage the government to do more.
We should not surrender the narrative of our state’s development to those who may be more interested in political arguments than in the actual progress of our communities.
No administration can achieve everything within a short period, but every genuine effort towards improving the lives of the people deserves recognition and encouragement.
Governor Nasir Idris has embarked on a developmental journey for Kebbi State. The responsibility before all of us is to ensure that this journey produces lasting benefits for present and future generations.
CONCLUSION
At the end of the day, leadership is a trust from Almighty Allah, and every position of authority comes with enormous responsibilities. Political offices are temporary, but the impact of good leadership and meaningful development can remain for generations.
Nobody should assume that political power belongs permanently to any individual. Almighty Allah gives leadership opportunities according to His wisdom, while the people exercise their democratic rights through the electoral process.
We must therefore conduct our political activities with maturity, humility, mutual respect and a sense of responsibility.
My message is simple: Let us acknowledge progress where it exists, demand accountability where necessary and support every genuine effort towards building a better Kebbi State.
We may belong to different political parties, hold different opinions and support different candidates, but we must never forget that we share one state and one common future.
Kebbi State is bigger than any political party, bigger than any individual and bigger than any personal ambition. Its peace, unity and development should always come first.
May Almighty Allah continue to guide Governor Comrade Dr. Nasir Idris and other leaders in positions of responsibility. May He grant them wisdom, strength and the ability to serve the people with justice and sincerity.
May Almighty Allah bless Kebbi State with lasting peace, unity, sustainable development and prosperity. (Amen)
Ahmed Idris is the Chief Press Secretary to the Kebbi State Governor.
