By Abdulwahab Muhammad SSA Communication
“Leadership is not exercised from afar. Stay close to your people.” — Governor Bala Mohammed.
In a bold move to deepen grassroots governance and strengthen traditional institutions, Bauchi State Governor, Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, has distributed over 140 vehicles to Emirs and District Heads across the state, while issuing a strong warning against excessive and unnecessary travels.
Speaking at the presentation ceremony held at the Government House in Bauchi, the governor emphasized that leadership—especially at the traditional level—must remain close to the people.“Leadership is not from a distance. You must stay within your domains to effectively serve your communities,” he cautioned.
The intervention includes:14 GMC saloon vehicles14 brand-new utility vehicles14 buses (including 18-seaters)114 Toyota Camry cars for District HeadsAccording to the governor, the vehicles are not just symbolic but practical tools aimed at improving mobility, responsiveness, and administrative efficiency at the grassroots.“These vehicles will enhance your ability to engage your people, resolve conflicts, and collaborate with security agencies effectively,” he stated.
Traditional Rulers as Governance PillarsGovernor Bala Mohammed described traditional rulers as:Custodians of culture and heritageFirst responders in conflict resolutionCritical links between government and the grassrootsHe noted that their role is central to:Early warning on security threatsCommunity mobilizationPolicy disseminationPromotion of peace and moral values. On Creation of Emirates & Districts.The governor reiterated that the creation of additional emirates and districts was a deliberate strategy to:Promote inclusiveness bring governance closer to the people,enhance administrative efficiency.
Warning on Accountability while announcing improved welfare packages and continued statutory allocations, the governor issued a firm warning:“These resources must be managed with transparency and accountability. Mismanagement will not be tolerated.”Stakeholders ReactThe Emir of Bauchi, Rilwanu Suleiman Adamu, praised the initiative, describing it as a major boost to the effectiveness of traditional institutions.
Also speaking, the Secretary to the State Government, Aminu Hammayo, called the event a milestone in repositioning traditional leadership for more impactful governance.The Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Isa Babayo Tilde, noted that the initiative would strengthen collaboration between government and traditional rulers, fostering peace, unity, and development.
This strategic intervention underscores the Bala Mohammed administration’s broader agenda: empowering traditional institutions as frontline drivers of peace, security, and development—while insisting on accountability and proximity to the people.
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