Asheik Jarma

Early Life and Background

Asheik Jarma was born on March 15, 1955, in Gamboru Ngala, a historically significant town nestled within the Ngala Local Government Area of Borno State, Nigeria. He hails from a revered family with deep roots in Islamic scholarship and traditional leadership, a lineage that has long served as custodians of cultural heritage and spiritual guidance in the region. His father, Malam Bukar Jarma, was a respected Imam and a local community elder, while his mother, Hajiya Fatima Kolo, was known for her piety and commitment to community welfare. Growing up in Gamboru Ngala, a town at the crossroads of trade and cultural exchange, Asheik Jarma was exposed early to the rich tapestry of Kanuri culture and the intricate dynamics of inter-communal relations. This formative environment instilled in him a profound sense of duty, an appreciation for traditional values, and an understanding of the challenges faced by his people. His early years were marked by rigorous traditional Islamic education, which laid the foundation for his later intellectual pursuits and leadership roles. He spent countless hours in Quranic schools, mastering Arabic language, Islamic jurisprudence (fiqh), and the Hadith, under the tutelage of prominent local scholars.

Education

Asheik Jarma's educational journey reflects a blend of traditional Islamic learning and modern secular instruction. He commenced his formal education at the local Quranic School in Gamboru Ngala from 1960 to 1967, where he memorized significant portions of the Holy Quran and gained a comprehensive understanding of Islamic principles. Following this, he attended Gamboru Ngala Primary School from 1967 to 1973, where he excelled academically, demonstrating a keen intellect and leadership potential. His secondary education was pursued at the prestigious Government Secondary School, Maiduguri, from 1973 to 1978, where he specialized in the Arts, developing a strong foundation in history, literature, and social sciences. Recognizing the importance of higher education, Asheik Jarma enrolled at the University of Maiduguri, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Islamic Studies in 1983. His undergraduate thesis focused on the socio-political impact of Islamic scholars in pre-colonial Borno. Driven by a desire to enhance his administrative capabilities for public service, he further pursued a Master of Science degree in Public Administration from the same institution, completing it in 1992. This advanced degree equipped him with critical insights into governance, policy formulation, and effective resource management, preparing him for the multifaceted challenges of leadership.

Career

Asheik Jarma's career is a testament to his dedication to public service and community upliftment, evolving from religious scholarship to traditional leadership and state administration. Upon graduating with his first degree, he began his professional journey as a teacher and administrator at the Gamboru Ngala Islamic Institute from 1984 to 1987, where he imparted knowledge and moral guidance to a new generation. His exceptional organizational skills and deep understanding of local affairs soon caught the attention of community leaders. In 1987, he was appointed Secretary of the Gamboru Ngala Local Government Area, a crucial administrative role he held until 1990. In this capacity, he was instrumental in coordinating local development projects, improving public services, and fostering greater community participation in governance. Following a period of further academic pursuit, in 1993, Asheik Jarma was unanimously selected and officially installed as the District Head of Ngala District, a highly respected traditional title. For over a decade, from 1993 to 2005, he served as a beacon of stability and justice, resolving countless disputes, promoting agricultural development, and advocating for improved infrastructure in his district. His leadership during this period was marked by an unwavering commitment to peace, particularly in a region often susceptible to various forms of conflict. His exemplary service led to his appointment as the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs for Borno State in 2005, a position he held until 2009. In this pivotal role, he spearheaded reforms aimed at strengthening local governance, enhancing the welfare of traditional institutions, and ensuring a harmonious relationship between modern administrative structures and traditional authorities. Since 2010, Asheik Jarma has served as the distinguished Chairman of the Borno State Council of Traditional Rulers, a testament to his wisdom, experience, and widespread respect among his peers and the state government. In this capacity, he plays a critical advisory role to the state government on matters of security, cultural preservation, and community development, often mediating complex issues and promoting inter-ethnic harmony.

Major Achievements

Asheik Jarma's career is punctuated by a series of significant achievements that have profoundly impacted his community and Borno State. One of his most notable contributions as District Head was the initiation of the "Peace and Reconciliation Dialogue" in 1998, a grassroots initiative that successfully mediated several long-standing inter-communal land disputes and fostered greater understanding and cooperation among various ethnic groups within Ngala District. During his tenure as Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, he oversaw the successful construction and equipping of five primary healthcare centers across underserved rural communities between 2006 and 2008, significantly improving access to basic medical services for thousands of citizens. He was also instrumental in advocating for increased budgetary allocations to local government areas, empowering them to undertake more development projects independently. As Chairman of the Borno State Council of Traditional Rulers, Asheik Jarma established the "Jarma Youth Empowerment Scheme" in 2012, a program designed to provide vocational training, entrepreneurship skills, and micro-credit facilities to thousands of unemployed youths, thereby reducing restiveness and promoting economic self-reliance. Furthermore, he has been a vocal proponent for the preservation of Kanuri language and culture, collaborating with educational institutions to develop curricula that promote indigenous knowledge and values. His efforts in promoting religious tolerance and interfaith dialogue have also been widely lauded, contributing to a more cohesive and peaceful society.

Personal Life

Asheik Jarma is a devout Muslim and a family man, reflecting the cultural norms of his region. He is married to two wives, Hajiya Amina Asheik Jarma and Hajiya Zarah Asheik Jarma, and is a proud father to ten children. His personal life is characterized by humility, piety, and a deep commitment to his family. He has consistently emphasized the importance of education for all his children, ensuring they receive both traditional Islamic instruction and modern secular schooling. Despite his demanding public roles, Asheik Jarma is known to dedicate significant time to his family, serving as a mentor and guide. He maintains a simple lifestyle, often participating in community prayers and local gatherings, which keeps him closely connected to the pulse of his people. His integrity and moral uprightness are values he instills in his children and exemplifies in his daily life, earning him immense respect within his family and the wider community. He is also an avid reader of history and Islamic texts, continuously expanding his knowledge and understanding.

Legacy

Asheik Jarma's legacy is firmly rooted in his unwavering commitment to peace, development, and cultural preservation. He will be remembered as a visionary leader who skillfully blended traditional wisdom with modern administrative practices to address the pressing needs of his people. His tireless efforts in conflict resolution, particularly his pioneering "Peace and Reconciliation Dialogue," have established a model for sustainable peacebuilding in the region. Through his advocacy for education and healthcare, he has laid foundational elements for improved quality of life for countless individuals. The "Jarma Youth Empowerment Scheme" stands as a living testament to his belief in the potential of young people and his commitment to tackling socio-economic challenges. Asheik Jarma's leadership has consistently promoted social cohesion, religious tolerance, and respect for cultural heritage, making him a revered figure whose influence extends beyond administrative boundaries. His integrity, wisdom, and dedication to public service have cemented his place as one of Borno State's most respected traditional leaders and statesmen, leaving an enduring impact on generations to come. His life's work serves as an inspiration for effective, community-centric leadership in a complex and evolving African landscape.