By Anthony Maliki
At 50 years, Philanthropist Hon. Khamisu Ahmed Mailantarki joins the ranks of Nigeria’s golden age leaders. He is among those whose lives have not just been long, but meaningfully impactful as he marks his 50th birthday on June 19, 2025. He was born on 19th June, 1975.
Indeed, from the streets of Herwagana tucked in a remote area of Gombe to the hallowed chambers of the House of Representatives, and from grassroots football pitches in Nigeria to youth tournaments in Europe, Mailantarki has been a beacon of resilience, service, and unwavering dedication to the youth, humanity and his community.
The making of a leader
Mailantarki’s upbringing in Gombe was mixed and modest but very eventful and purposeful. He was raised with values of hard work, community, and education, values that would define his life’s path.
A product of public schools in Gombe, he proceeded to earn a Bachelor’s degree in Geography from the University of Abuja, followed by a Postgraduate Diploma in Environmental Protection and Planning. From early on, it was clear that he was preparing himself for a future in public service.
A voice for the people
In 2011, he made history by being elected to the House of Representatives, representing Gombe/Kwami/Funakaye Federal Constituency of Gombe State. In fact, not only did he emerge with the highest number of votes in the North-East, but he also became one of the most dynamic voices in the House of Representatives.
During his time in the House, he excellently served on key committees such as Petroleum Resources (Upstream), Climate Change, Solid Minerals, Internal Security, Human Rights and FCT Area Councils.
Besides, he is known for his sharp intellect and grassroots connection, which earned respect from colleagues across party lines. His legislative focus centered on community development, youth empowerment, environmental sustainability, and security reforms.
The Mailantarki Care FC vision
For many Nigerians, Mailantarki is more than a politician. He is a passionate sports philanthropist.
He founded Mailantarki Care Football Academy, a Gombe-based youth club in 2021 that has taken Nigerian football to the world stage. The academy was created to uplift grassroots talent across Northern Nigeria.
In 2022, his team shocked the football world by winning the Dana Cup in Denmark, an international U-19 youth competition. More than a football club, the academy has become a beacon of hope for young, talented athletes offering them opportunities for global exposure, discipline, and careers in sports.
In 2023, Mailantarki was elected Vice-Chairman of Nigeria National League, (NNL) earning high praise from fans and stakeholders.
That is not all, he presently constructing a world-class sports complex in Abuja, designed to boost long-term development across multiple age group categories and disciplines.
A man of conviction and courage
Hon. Mailantarki’s political journey has not been without challenges. He has boldly switched platforms when necessary, notably contesting the 2023 Gombe State Governorship on the platform of New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) before returning to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). What remains constant is his outspokenness, courage, and clarity of purpose.
He has been critical of policies that mortgage the future of Gombe youth and remains a firm advocate for youth leadership, fiscal discipline, and accountable governance.
Vision for the future
At 50 years, Mailantarki is more than a former legislator or football enthusiast, he is a mentor, statesman and bridge-builder. He continues to nurture his passion for youth empowerment, education, sports diplomacy, and environmental advocacy. He is also seen as a potential key player in the political future of Gombe and the North-East.
In fact, he represents a generation of Nigerian leaders who are not waiting for national applause, but are focused on leaving behind footprints of impact. His life is a reminder that leadership is not about title, but about service, sacrifice, and sincerity.
As family, friends, and supporters celebrate this milestone, one thing is clear — the journey of Mailantarki is only halfway done.
Now, as he enters his sixth decade, Mailantarki stands at the crossroads of reflection and resolve. However, his eyes are firmly fixed on the future. That is, deepening grassroots initiatives, continuing youth development, sports empowerment, and educational support. His life reflects a rare blend of service, vision, and resilience.
He possesses a well-rounded blend of legislative experience, grassroots empowerment, and sports development efforts.
No doubt, he remains an influential voice in Gombe politics through party involvement and civic engagement with enormous pressure to recontest for Gombe State governorship in 2027.
Maliki, a journalist, writes from Abuja
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