By Abdu Saidu, Kano
Prominent politician and elder statesman Alhaji Muntari Kwaru has praised Senator Abdurrahman Kawu Sumaila, OFR, PhD, who represents Kano South District, for his outstanding accomplishments.
According to Kwaru, Kawu Sumaila is the perfect example of grassroots politics and a leader who has come to prominence by putting his constituents interests first.
Speaking to journalists in Kano, Kwaru gave a detailed account of Senator Kawu Sumaila’s political career. He says Kawu is a great example of a grassroots leader since he built his power by working directly with his people instead than depending on wealth or inherited privileges.
Kwaru noted that grassroots politicians like Kawu Sumaila are instrumental in addressing the challenges faced by their people. Such leaders combine intimate knowledge of local issues with pragmatic policymaking, creating a tangible impact on the lives of those they represent.
The Early Journey
Senator Kawu Sumaila began his political career in 1991 as a member of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) and later the People’s Democratic Movement (PDM). These affiliations laid the groundwork for what would become an illustrious career, rooted in service to the people.
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His commitment was evident early on when he served as the Deputy State Organizing Secretary of PDM and aspired to represent his community in the Kano State House of Assembly under both PDM and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). This phase of his career coincided with the political transition era of Sani Abacha, during which he also joined the United Nigeria Congress Party (UNCP).
A National Figure
The major political turning point for Kawu Sumaila came in 2003 when he joined the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP) and was elected to the House of Representatives, representing the Sumaila/Takai Federal Constituency. During his tenure, he actively participated in committees like Poverty Alleviation, Water Resources, Interior, and Information, setting the groundwork for future leadership positions.
After winning a second term in the House, he became the Deputy Minority Leader in 2007. Retaining his position as Deputy Minority Leader and making contributions to constitutional amendment committees during his term, he was reelected in 2011. His remarkable 12-year term in the House is evidence of his lasting impact and capacity to successfully meet the demands of both legislators and constituents.
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In 2016, President Muhammadu Buhari named Kawu as Senior Special Assistant on National Assembly Matters in recognition of his extensive experience. He further solidified his reputation as a political titan in 2023 when he returned to the legislature as a senator representing Kano South.
Academic Excellence
Kawu Sumaila’s achievements in academia compliment his leadership. He received:
A Bachelor of Arts in Islamic Studies from the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN).
A master’s degree in Leadership Studies from the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) and in Developmental Studies from Bayero University Kano (BUK).
A master’s in Political Science from Maryam Abacha University, Niger Republic, and a PhD in Political Science from Al-Qalam University, Katsina.
His educational journey also includes training from globally famous schools such as Harvard, Oxford, and Cambridge universities, further boosting his leadership qualities.
Major Contributions and Projects
Senator Kawu Sumaila’s tenure has been marked by transformative initiatives that address critical needs in Kano South.
1. Irrigation and Agriculture
Kawu secured the approval of ₦95 billion for a massive irrigation canal project to tap into the agricultural potential of Tiga, Karaye, and Kafin-Chiri dams. This initiative is intended to reinvigorate farming in the region, considerably enhancing productivity and food security.
2. Education and Infrastructure
Senator Kawu invested heavily in education, funding projects worth over ₦1.4 billion for Maitama Sule Science Secondary School in Gaya and Garko Girls Science College. These projects include the construction of ICT centers, multi-purpose halls, and renovations of libraries and laboratories. Additionally, 3,000 desks, 170 whiteboards, and other classroom equipment were provided to schools across the district.
His commitment to youth development was further demonstrated by the fact that he sponsored more than 500 students in postsecondary institutions.
3. Healthcare and Social Empowerment
Kawu’s provision of 1,000 hospital beds and other critical infrastructure reflects his commitment to enhancing healthcare services. Beyond healthcare, his empowerment programs have distributed motorcycles, tricycles, and cars to individuals across Kano South, including Islamic scholars, youth coordinators, and small business owners.
4. Legislative Advocacy
Legislative accomplishments of Senator Kawu include a number of significant bills and motions, including:
1. Financial autonomy for state assemblies and local governments.
2. Policies addressing extrajudicial killings.
3. The establishment of a timeline for election petition disposal.
4. Budget implementation and accountability.
Recognition and Accolades
Senator Kawu Sumaila’s contributions have not gone unnoticed. In 2012, he was awarded the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR), one of Nigeria’s highest national honors. His leadership style, characterized by transparency, empathy, and innovation, continues to earn him accolades from his constituents and beyond.
Muntari Kwaru’s Endorsement
Muntari Kwaru summed up Kawu Sumaila’s contributions by highlighting the senator’s unwavering commitment to the people of Kano South and the nation at large.
“He has demonstrated exemplary leadership by fostering development, empowering communities, and providing sustainable solutions to challenges,” Kwaru stated.
Conclusion
Senator Abdurrahman Kawu Sumaila embodies the ideals of grassroots leadership. His journey from humble beginnings to national prominence is a testament to what can be achieved through hard work, vision, and a genuine desire to serve. For these reasons and more, Muntari Kwaru’s declaration of Kawu Sumaila as “Senator of the Year” is both fitting and well-deserved.
