Sokoto State Governor Ahmad Aliyu has called on contemporary leaders in Northern Nigeria to emulate the leadership qualities of the late Premier of the Northern Region, Sir Ahmadu Bello, saying his values remain critical to achieving sustainable development and prosperity in the region.
The governor made the call in a message commemorating the anniversary of the assassination of Sir Ahmadu Bello, the Sardauna of Sokoto, who was killed on January 15, 1966.
Aliyu described the late premier as a leader distinguished by simplicity, discipline, integrity, honesty, dedication and a deep sense of responsibility, noting that these attributes were central to his vision for a united and progressive North.
According to the governor, Sir Ahmadu Bello was an inclusive and selfless leader who made significant sacrifices to build a strong and united Northern Nigeria, carrying people along regardless of ethnicity, religion or geographical location.
Aliyu said present-day leaders have much to learn from the late premier’s approach to governance, urging them to study and adapt the political, economic and social reforms he introduced to address contemporary challenges facing the region.
He highlighted some of Sir Ahmadu Bello’s enduring legacies, including his role as the founding leader of the Northern People’s Congress, his contribution to Nigeria’s independence in 1960, and his efforts to promote unity among the North’s diverse ethnic and religious groups.
The governor also noted the late premier’s commitment to education, particularly his role in promoting Western education in Northern Nigeria and in the establishment of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria.
Other legacies cited include initiatives aimed at economic and agricultural development, the promotion of regional self-reliance, support for Islamic values, and the establishment of institutions such as the Bank of the North and the Northern Nigeria Development Corporation.
Aliyu advocated the creation of a common platform to revive and build upon these legacies, especially in agriculture, given the region’s vast agricultural potential.
As Northern Nigeria marks 60 years since the assassination of Sir Ahmadu Bello, the governor prayed for divine forgiveness for the late leader and for his contributions to continue to inspire future generations.
The assassination of Sir Ahmadu Bello and other political leaders in January 1966 marked a turning point in Nigeria’s history, bringing an end to the First Republic and ushering in military rule.
