By Ahmed Rufa’i, Dutse
Former Speakers and Councillors from the 27 Local Government Areas of Jigawa State have paid homage to the Minister of Defence, Alhaji Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, CON, mni, at his residence in Kano.
The visit, held in the spirit of the Eid el-Kabeer festivities, was confirmed in a statement by the Minister’s Personal Assistant on Media and Publicity, Comrade Mati Ali, and made available to National Update.
The delegation comprised members of the Forums of Immediate Past Local Government Council Speakers and Councillors, who served during Badaru’s second tenure as Governor of Jigawa State. Their leaders said the visit was to show solidarity, offer Sallah greetings, and commend the Minister for his outstanding contributions to national security and public service.
Speaking on behalf of the former Speakers, Alhaji Ali Zarada Gagarawa reaffirmed their loyalty and expressed continued support for the Minister. He offered prayers for divine guidance and success in Badaru’s efforts to improve national security.
Comrade Mati Ali noted that the Forum of Former Councillors presented a plaque of appreciation to the Minister in recognition of his exceptional role as the first Governor to clear all outstanding severance allowances owed to local government councillors in the state from 1999 to 2023.
Alhaji Mustafá Isyaku, Chairman of the Former Councillors’ Forum, described the award as a token of gratitude for the goodwill and support they received under Badaru’s leadership. He emphasized their unwavering loyalty and pledged continued solidarity with the Minister in all political endeavours.
Notable politicians who witnessed the visit included the APC Chairman in Jigawa State, Alhaji Aminu Sani Gumel; Hon. Abubakar Sadiq Jallo, member representing Hadejia in the State Assembly; and Hon. Ahmed Rufai, former Chairman of Gumel Local Government.
In his response, the Defence Minister expressed appreciation for the visit, the prayers, and the plaque of honour. He urged the former council officials to remain patriotic citizens and continue to promote peace, unity, and progress within the APC and Nigeria at large.