Politicians
Abba Kabir Yusuf
Governor of Kano State
Early Life and Background
Mohammed Umar Jibrilla, widely recognized by his nickname 'Bindow', was born on June 16, 1963, in Mubi, a significant commercial town in present-day Adamawa State, Nigeria. He hails from a prominent Fulani family with deep roots in the region, which provided him with an early understanding of the socio-political dynamics and traditional structures of Adamawa. His early life in Mubi exposed him to the vibrant commercial activities of the area, which likely influenced his later foray into entrepreneurship. Growing up in a culturally rich environment, he developed a strong connection to his community and its people, shaping his perspective on public service and development.
Education
Jibrilla's educational journey began at the Central Primary School in Mubi, where he received his foundational education. Following his primary schooling, he proceeded to Government Secondary School, also in Mubi, for his secondary education, obtaining his West African Senior School Certificate. After completing his secondary education, he pursued higher studies, enrolling at Kaduna Polytechnic. At Kaduna Polytechnic, he successfully earned a National Diploma (ND) in Business Administration, a field that would prove instrumental in his subsequent business ventures and political career. Demonstrating a commitment to continuous learning, he furthered his academic pursuits at the University of Maiduguri, where he was awarded a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) degree in Business Administration. This comprehensive educational background, combining practical business training with formal academic qualifications, provided him with a robust understanding of management, economics, and public administration.
Career
Mohammed Jibrilla's career trajectory began in the private sector, where he established himself as a successful entrepreneur. His business interests spanned various sectors, notably including an auto dealership and construction, which allowed him to accumulate significant experience in project management, finance, and human resources. His reputation as a shrewd and successful businessman preceded his entry into the political arena.
His political career officially commenced with his election as a Senator representing the Adamawa North Senatorial District in the Nigerian National Assembly. He served in this capacity from 2011 to 2015 under the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). As a Senator, he contributed to legislative processes, oversight functions, and advocated for the needs of his constituency, particularly focusing on issues related to security, infrastructure, and youth empowerment.
In the build-up to the 2015 general elections, Jibrilla made a significant political move by defecting from the PDP to the newly formed All Progressives Congress (APC). This strategic decision aligned him with the burgeoning opposition movement that eventually swept into power at the federal level. Riding on this wave, he contested and won the gubernatorial election for Adamawa State in 2015, becoming the Executive Governor of the state. He served a single term from May 29, 2015, to May 29, 2019. His governorship was characterized by a strong emphasis on infrastructure development, particularly road construction and rehabilitation across the state. He also focused on improving security, especially in the context of the Boko Haram insurgency that had significantly impacted parts of Adamawa State. After failing to secure re-election in the 2019 gubernatorial polls, he transitioned out of active executive politics, though he remains an influential figure within the APC and Adamawa State political landscape.
Major Achievements
During his tenure as Governor of Adamawa State, Mohammed Jibrilla Bindow spearheaded several significant initiatives and achievements:
- Extensive Infrastructure Development: His administration was widely recognized for its aggressive road construction and rehabilitation projects. Numerous urban and rural roads were either built or upgraded, significantly improving connectivity and facilitating economic activities across the state, including key projects in Yola, Mubi, and other major towns.
- Focus on Security: Operating in a state heavily affected by the Boko Haram insurgency, Jibrilla's government prioritized peacebuilding and security. He worked closely with federal security agencies and local vigilante groups to restore peace and facilitate the return of internally displaced persons (IDPs) to their communities.
- Education Sector Revitalization: Efforts were made to improve the quality of education through rehabilitation of schools, provision of learning materials, and payment of teachers' salaries. His administration aimed to reduce out-of-school children rates and enhance access to basic education.
- Healthcare System Strengthening: His government invested in upgrading healthcare facilities and improving access to medical services, particularly in rural areas, to enhance public health outcomes.
- Youth Empowerment Programs: Various initiatives were launched to provide vocational training and entrepreneurial opportunities for the youth, aiming to reduce unemployment and foster self-reliance.
Personal Life
Mohammed Jibrilla is a devout Muslim and a family man. Like many prominent figures in Northern Nigeria, he maintains a relatively private personal life, though it is known he is married and has children. His family plays a supportive role in his public life. He is known for his philanthropic gestures and community engagement, often contributing to local development projects and supporting less privileged individuals within his community. His traditional background strongly influences his values and approach to leadership, emphasizing community welfare and cultural preservation.
Legacy
Mohammed Jibrilla's legacy as Governor of Adamawa State is primarily defined by his commitment to infrastructure development and his efforts to restore peace and stability in a challenging security environment. He is remembered for his 'road revolution' which significantly transformed the urban landscape of Adamawa State and improved the movement of goods and people. While his administration faced criticisms regarding financial management and the sustainability of some projects, his supporters laud him for bringing tangible development to the state after years of neglect. His political journey, from a successful businessman to a Senator and then Governor, showcases a determined individual who leveraged his private sector acumen for public service. Though his bid for re-election was unsuccessful, he remains a respected political voice within Adamawa State and continues to influence political discourse, advocating for the progress and well-being of his people.