Former Governor of Sokoto State, Aminu Tambuwal, has reiterated the importance of deliberate, inclusive, and fair leadership as a cornerstone for Nigeria’s growth and development. Speaking during his 60th birthday colloquium themed “Leadership, Service and Statesmanship,” Tambuwal reflected on his tenure as governor and shared lessons on how effective governance can drive national progress.
Tambuwal, who served as Governor of Sokoto State from 2015 to 2023, emphasized that leaders must ensure broad representation and participation of all groups, including women and youths, in government. According to him, inclusiveness is not only a moral responsibility but also a practical strategy for nation-building.
Speaking to guests at the event, Tambuwal explained that his administration deliberately departed from long-standing practices that limited women’s participation in government to the Ministry of Women Affairs. Instead, he appointed three female commissioners to key and sensitive ministries, signaling a commitment to gender inclusiveness.
“Leadership must be deliberate, inclusive, and fair,” Tambuwal said. “During my tenure as governor, this conviction guided my approach to governance, particularly in ensuring that women and youths were given their rightful positions in government.”
The former governor also disclosed that his administration made efforts to strengthen female participation at the local government level. At least three female councillors were appointed in each local government area across the state. In Tambuwal Local Government Area alone, five women served as councillors, bringing the total number of female councillors in Sokoto State to 71.
Tambuwal’s inclusive policies extended beyond councillorship. His government appointed seven female Permanent Secretaries, nine female Directors-General, and a significant number of women served on boards, as Special Advisers, and as Assistants. These measures, he said, ensured that women had a voice in decision-making at all levels of governance.
Alongside gender inclusiveness, Tambuwal highlighted the importance of youth participation in governance. While reflecting on his stewardship, he noted that creating opportunities for young people in leadership roles fosters innovation, encourages civic responsibility, and strengthens democracy.
“Empowering youths to take part in governance is crucial for sustainable development,” Tambuwal said. “When young people are included in decision-making, policies are more likely to address the needs and aspirations of the majority of citizens.”
Experts in governance and political science have often noted that inclusive leadership enhances social cohesion, reduces political tensions, and promotes economic growth. Tambuwal’s approach in Sokoto State serves as an example of how targeted policies can transform political participation and ensure broader representation.
In his message posted on X, Tambuwal wrote: “Still in reflection of my stewardship, as themed at my 60th birthday colloquium, Leadership, Service and Statesmanship, I remain convinced that leadership must be deliberate, inclusive, and fair. Inclusiveness was therefore pursued deliberately and reflected in decisions such as the appointment of three female commissioners to key and sensitive ministries, a departure from the long-standing practice of confining women to the Ministry of Women Affairs alone.”
He continued, “We also ensured that at least three female councillors served in each local government area, with about five in Tambuwal Local Government Area, bringing the total number of female councillors to 71. In addition, we appointed seven female Permanent Secretaries and nine female Directors-General, alongside a significant number of women serving on boards, and as Special Advisers and Assistants. I remain firmly of the view that inclusive governance at all levels is fundamental to nation building and sustainable national development.”
Tambuwal’s reflections underscore a key lesson in Nigerian governance: for the country to achieve sustainable development, leadership must intentionally empower marginalized groups and ensure that governance is representative of the population’s diversity.
Nigeria has long struggled with underrepresentation of women in politics. According to recent reports, women hold only about 7% of elective offices nationwide, despite making up roughly half of the population. Similarly, youth participation in political decision-making remains limited due to structural barriers, including age restrictions for political office, financial constraints, and limited access to party structures.
Leaders like Tambuwal who deliberately include women and youths in governance help address these inequalities, creating pathways for long-term political participation and leadership development. Scholars argue that such measures improve governance outcomes by bringing in diverse perspectives and ensuring policies reflect the needs of all citizens.
During his tenure, Tambuwal’s administration in Sokoto State was widely praised for promoting inclusiveness and accountability. The deliberate appointment of women to senior positions and local councils not only empowered these groups but also inspired other states to consider similar reforms.
Tambuwal’s 60th birthday colloquium was more than a personal celebration; it was an opportunity to highlight his governance philosophy and share lessons for the nation. He called on current and aspiring leaders across Nigeria to adopt deliberate, inclusive, and fair leadership practices to drive the country forward.
“Leadership is a service to the people,” he said. “It is not about titles or personal gains. When leaders act deliberately, include all groups, and govern fairly, the nation will prosper. Inclusive governance at all levels is fundamental to nation-building and sustainable national development.”