Mai Mala Buni: Political philosopher or political gladiator?

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Yobe State Governor Mai Mala Buni

By Abulfathi Usman

Mai Mala Buni can be described as both a political philosopher and a political gladiator. As a political philosopher, he has a clear vision and set of principles that guide his actions and decision-making in the political arena. His approach involves analyzing and understanding the dynamics of power and governance, and formulating strategies to achieve desired outcomes.

As a political gladiator, Mai Mala Buni has displayed exceptional skills and prowess in navigating the complex world of politics in Nigeria. He has shown resilience, perseverance, and determination in his political journey, starting from being the ward councilor in Yard Buni to becoming the Executive Governor of Yobe State. In each position, he has proven himself to be a formidable force, always striving to overcome challenges and achieve success.

One of Mai Mala Buni’s notable achievements is his ability to reshape the ruling party APC when it was on the brink of collapse. As the caretaker chairman of the party, he embarked on a mission to rebuild and unify the party, bringing together different factions and resolving internal conflicts. His leadership and strategic decisions ultimately saved the party from disintegration.

Furthermore, Mai Mala Buni holds the distinction of being the first serving governor to chair the leadership of All Progressives Congress (APC). This demonstrates his ability to multitask and effectively manage different roles and responsibilities. He utilized his position as both a governor and party leader to drive his vision and agenda, creating a harmonious and aligned environment within the ruling party.

Another remarkable aspect of Mai Mala Buni’s leadership style is his ability to attract members from the opposition party. Through his charisma, persuasive skills, and inclusive approach, he was able to convince several elected officials from the opposition party, including governors, senators, and members of the House of Representatives, to join the ruling party. This strategic move consolidated the party’s strength and contributed to their victory in the 2023 presidential elections.

Mai Mala Buni’s political philosophy revolves around reshaping and strengthening political parties, unifying factions, and achieving victory through strategic alliances. His ability to navigate political challenges and mobilize support from both within and outside his party has solidified his place as a prominent grassroots politician and leader in Nigeria.

Mai Mala Buni is a Nigerian politician who played a vital role in the 2015 presidential election when he served as the National Secretary of his political party, APC. As the national secretary, Buni had significant responsibilities and duties within the party structure, including organizing and coordinating party activities, managing communication among party members, and ensuring the smooth operation of the party.

Governor Buni with President Bola Tinubu, left

During the 2015 presidential election, Buni’s role as national secretary have been crucial in strategizing and implementing the party’s campaign plans. He would have been involved in formulating the party’s policies and manifestos, and working closely with party leaders to rally support and mobilize voters for the party’s presidential candidate former president Muhammad Buhari.

As national secretary, Buni have also played a key role in maintaining party discipline and ensuring party members adhered to party guidelines and principles throughout the election process. He has been responsible for liaising with party members at various levels and coordinating their efforts to ensure a united front in supporting the party’s presidential candidate.

Aside from his role in the 2015 presidential election, Buni has had a long and distinguished political career in Nigeria. He has held various positions within and outside his party and has been involved in several political and developmental initiatives. Buni’s contribution during the 2015 presidential election of former President Muhammad Buhari that lead to the victory demonstrates his dedication and commitment to the success of his party and its candidates.

Mai Mala Buni is a dynamic and visionary politician whose politics transcends regional boundaries, positioning him as a national political champion rather than a regional politician. His ability to effectively interact with different regions, states, ethnic groups, and religious affiliations across the nation sets him apart as a leader who believes in the unity and progress of the entire country.

Buni’s level of interaction with diverse communities and his commitment to understanding the needs and aspirations of people from various backgrounds undeniably showcases his national outlook. He recognizes the importance of engaging with different regions, understanding their unique challenges, and working towards finding solutions that benefit all.

In his role as a leader, Mai Mala Buni has gained recognition and respect as an up-and-coming political figure from the northeast region of the country. His leadership qualities and dedication to serving the people have propelled him to the forefront of national politics. His understanding of the socio-political dynamics of the northeast region coupled with his commitment to national unity make him a formidable force in Nigerian politics.

As a leader who prioritizes inclusivity, Buni ensures that the voices of various ethnic and religious groups are heard and represented in his political endeavors. This approach solidifies his standing as a leader who believes in the collective progress of all Nigerians, irrespective of their backgrounds. Buni’s ability to bridge divides and foster harmony among diverse groups makes him an exemplary figure in the pursuit of national unity.

Overall, Mai Mala Buni’s political stance cannot be confined to a regional context. His broad level of interaction and understanding of the diverse fabric of the nation, coupled with his visionary leadership, establishes him as a national political champion and a promising figure for the future of Nigerian politics.

Mai Mala Buni, the Governor of Yobe State, has achieved remarkable progress and development in the state since assuming office in 2019. With a focus on infrastructure, healthcare, education, and economic revitalization, Governor Buni has demonstrated his commitment to improving the lives of the people of Yobe State.

One of the noteworthy achievements of Governor Buni is the ongoing construction of Nigeria’s largest ultramodern transit park in Potiskum. With a size of 3000 meters, this transit park will serve as a hub for transportation and trade, facilitating economic growth and job creation in the region. Additionally, the construction of Northern Nigeria’s second cargo International airport in Damaturu, which is already completed, will further enhance the state’s connectivity and attract more business opportunities.

Governor Buni’s commitment to healthcare is evident in the construction of 53 Primary Healthcare centers across 53 Yobe communities, equipped with doctors’ quarters. This initiative aims to improve access to quality healthcare services for the people, especially in remote areas. Furthermore, the ongoing construction of one of Nigeria’s largest Maternity and Newborn complexes at YSUTH, Damaturu demonstrates Governor Buni’s dedication to ensuring the well-being of mothers and infants.

Education is another area where Governor Buni has made significant strides. The ongoing construction of the MEGA Primary school in Buni Yadi, with over 48 classrooms and 8 ICT centers, will provide a conducive learning environment for students. Additionally, the construction of Ultramodern primary schools in Damaturu, Geidam, Potiskum, Nguru, and Gashua will contribute to the improvement of the state’s educational system, promoting quality education for children.

Infrastructure development has been a priority for Governor Buni. His administration has completed various township roads in Jajimaji, Babbangida, Damagum, and Buni Yadi, enhancing connectivity and facilitating the movement of people and goods. Moreover, the construction of rural access roads and the ongoing construction of major roads like Nguru to Balangua, Damagum to Gubana, and Garin Bingel to Bula to Danchua will further improve transportation and boost economic activities in rural areas.

Governor Buni has also focused on revitalizing industries in the state. He successfully resuscitated the Yobe Polythene and sacks woven industry in Damaturu, the Yobe Aluminium industry in Potiskum, the Yobe Flour Mills, and is currently working towards resuscitating the Gujba Fertilizer company. These initiatives have not only created job opportunities but have also contributed to the economic growth of the state.

The healthcare sector has seen significant improvements under Governor Buni’s administration. In addition to expanding and upgrading the Buni Yadi specialist hospital, he has electrified 29 communities in Yobe, ensuring access to electricity for the residents. The distribution of 30 Toyota Hilux vehicles to the police and the provision of tricycle ambulances and the employment of 200 midwives to Primary Healthcare centers are commendable initiatives that enhance security and healthcare services.

Governor Buni’s administration has demonstrated a commitment to modernize and upgrade public infrastructure. The rehabilitation and modernization of the Yobe state Secretariat and several ministries, the construction of a modern clinic, schools, and a mosque at the Red Bridge in Damaturu, and the construction of a 200-bed capacity hostel, lecture halls, and staff offices at the School of Nursing in Damaturu are clear indications of the governor’s desire to create a conducive and modern environment for public services and education.

In conclusion, Governor Mai Mala Buni has made significant achievements as the Governor of Yobe State from 2019 till date. His focus national politics and infrastructure development, healthcare, education, and economic revitalization has positively impacted the lives of the people of Yobe State With ongoing projects and the commitment to resuscitating industries, Governor Buni is determined to ensure sustainable development and a prosperous future for Yobe State.