Letter to Sen Dr. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso

Dear Baba, Jagora, Madugu I write to you not just as a politician to a statesman, but as a daughter, a mentee, and a patriot speaking to a father of vision, courage, and consequence. A man whose journey in public life has given hope to those who once believed opportunity was not meant for them. […]

Dear Baba, Jagora, Madugu

I write to you not just as a politician to a statesman, but as a daughter, a mentee, and a patriot speaking to a father of vision, courage, and consequence. A man whose journey in public life has given hope to those who once believed opportunity was not meant for them. A leader who proved, through action, that the son or daughter of the not-so-privileged can rise not by charity, but by structure, education, and belief. 

You have walked a long road in service: as a civil servant, diplomat, executive governor, legislator, minister, and public servant. Across these chapters, one truth stands firm your commitment to people, especially through education and human capital development, is undeniable. You did not merely speak about lifting people; you institutionalised it. You challenged the Almajiri system, empowered young people with skills, and opened doors within and beyond Nigeria. In doing so, you reminded us that leadership can be compassionate, strategic, and patriotic at once. 

Yet, history often treats visionary leaders with paradox while they uplift many, they also endure betrayal. This is not unique to you; it is the burden of builders. Those who create systems will always attract those who benefit without believing, and those who align for proximity rather than purpose. I say this firmly and respectfully: it is time to rethink political structures not on emotional loyalty, but on moral absolutism, clear agreements, and consequences.

 Today’s reality demands flexible but firm structures networks built on shared values, documented commitments, measurable responsibilities, and accountability. Loyalty without principle is fragile. Principle-backed agreements endure. Power must be organised, not personalised. Influence must be institutional, not sentimental. This is how relevance is protected and betrayal minimised. 

You are the kind of leader this region needs one with vision, agenda, and the capacity to execute. No matter the situation the North finds itself in, the systems you help build must be strong enough to correct mistakes, absorb shocks, and regenerate leadership. This will require absolute collaboration, statesmanship, competence, commitment, integrity, and data-driven governance the very strengths you are known for. 

It is also time to open your arms wider to the world, across party lines, regions, tribes, and religions. History does not remember those who played safe within silos; it remembers those who built bridges when walls felt easier. You have more supporters than you imagine people like us who quietly learn from your wisdom and apply it in our own spaces. Some may dislike you as a person, but few can deny your commitment to your people and your clarity of purpose. Your words are straight, and in a nation tired of doublespeak, that matters. 

Do not be shaken by what feels like betrayal, ideological differences, harsh opinions, or even past mistakes and missed decisions. As humans, we are born to fail, learn, and rise so that we may win at the end. Failure is not the opposite of leadership; surrender is. And you, sir, cannot afford to surrender. 

As a daughter, a mentee, and a patriot, I urge you to complete the assignment the one our forefathers could not complete, and even go beyond it. Gather like minds old and young, tested and able. Let us build a northern movement with a clear moral compass, strategic clarity, and national relevance. Demystify the perceptions around you. Let it be known, clearly and consistently, that you are for everybody and belong to all of us as one of us.

Be relentless. Do not give our enemies the satisfaction of watching you step back. You still have more to give, more to shape, and more to correct. Engage more politically, intellectually, and strategically across networks, regions, and faiths. It is time to realign the pen and write history in such a way that your legacy cannot be erased. 

Nigeria needs builders. The North needs architects of systems, not just holders of titles. And history still needs you. 

With respect, belief, and unwavering encouragement,

A daughter, a mentee, and a patriot

 

Zainab Buba Galadima sent this piece from Abuja