Unveiling the Story of Mai Mala Buni

For many years prior to my appointment as a Commissioner, I engaged in numerous in-depth discussions with colleagues who had held similar roles in various regions. Their experiences were often disheartening.

To them, serving as a Commissioner meant sacrificing autonomy, managing hidden pressures, and stifling personal beliefs in order to navigate the political landscape. Some shared stories of subtle indignities that tarnished the honor associated with public service. Observing these patterns, I quietly resolved that if leadership came at the cost of my integrity, it was not a journey I wished to embark upon.

Thus, when Governor Mai Mala Buni appointed me as the Commissioner for Education in Yobe State, I found myself hesitating—not from a lack of gratitude but due to caution informed by prior accounts.

However, what I encountered was vastly divergent.

During our initial meeting, Governor Buni expressed sentiments that profoundly altered my outlook on public service:

"Honorable Commissioner, I appreciate your consent to serve the citizens of Yobe State. This is a sacrifice. I've placed my trust in you, rooted in your expertise in the education sector. You have the autonomy to initiate educational reforms in Yobe State, but do so with respect, empathy, and kindness."

There was no intimidation, no displays of power, and no political dramatics.

Just trust—and accountability.

True to his word, the Governor empowered his Commissioners to think creatively, innovate, and implement plans following adequate consultation. He fostered initiative rather than stifling it. His oversight was characterized by clarity and assurance rather than micromanagement. He sought results—not mere allegiance.

One of his most commendable attributes is his culture of listening. He attentively engages, never interrupts, and never presumes to know it all. When corrections are needed, he offers guidance rooted in reason and superior arguments, steering clear of embarrassment. If a more compelling position arises, he embraces it with humility.

This humility is genuine. It is not a façade or tactic; it is a reflection of his character.

His generosity is equally transformative, showcasing his human side.

Across the 17 Local Government Areas of Yobe State, small business owners—such as women frying akara by the roadside—received financial injections of ₦50,000 to bolster their businesses. This assistance occurred without media coverage or grandiose ceremonies—merely genuine impact.

Shoe shiners who once relied on polishing shoes for officials were empowered with significant capital, enabling them to create sustainable businesses. Many left shoe shining altogether, forging stable livelihoods. Empowerment replaced dependency.

His guiding principle is clear: "If you are not willing to be generous, you have no role in politics."

I witnessed a remarkable incident where a cyclist approached the Governor’s convoy. That encounter resulted in life-changing financial aid. It was not staged or premeditated—simply compassion addressing a need.

His profound humanity is most pronounced during moments requiring discipline and conflict resolution.

In a notable instance, a vice principal committed a serious disciplinary infraction in the education sector. As Commissioner, I was prepared to enact stringent disciplinary actions, including termination. The situation warranted a strong response.

Governor Buni intervened—not to excuse the wrongdoing, but to temper justice with wisdom. He highlighted that termination impacts not only the individual but also their families and dependents. He insisted that discipline must be corrective and proportionate, rather than merely punitive. His intervention showcased leadership guided by ethical considerations.

On another occasion, a man spread untruths about his administration’s educational policies on Facebook. The accusations were false and potentially damaging, prompting my consideration of legal action.

Once more, the Governor stepped in.

"That individual is my son," he responded calmly.

"Have you ever seen a father take his son to court? I have pardoned him."

This reaction was a display of strength rooted in maturity. He prioritized forgiveness over retribution, reconciliation over retaliation.

Another defining trait of Governor Mai Mala Buni is his unwavering loyalty and genuine gratitude. Since the beginning of his political career as a Councilor to his current position, he has never spoken derogatorily about those who supported him along the way. Observers of his political journey can attest to this consistency. In an era where political alliances are frequently abandoned once power is acquired, his steadfastness stands as a testament to the immense value he places on loyalty, his kind-heartedness, and profound gratitude.

Thus, it is unsurprising that during his tenure as the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), the party experienced remarkable expansion. Under his guidance, over 40 million Nigerians were registered, and numerous governors joined the party. His ability to build bridges, calm demeanor, and inclusive leadership style inspired immense confidence nationwide.

Three years ago, he publicly offered ₦10 million to anyone who could identify his enemy. Three years later, no one has managed to do so. This statement reflected not arrogance but a quiet confidence stemming from a life lived without malice, vendetta, or bitterness.

Serving under Governor Mai Mala Buni did not diminish my professional identity—it enriched it. It deepened my appreciation of leadership as a form of service, authority as responsibility, and power as a sacred trust.

This account aims not solely to commend an individual but to instill hope.

At a juncture when many Nigerians might be inclined to lose faith in leadership, it is critical to document exemplary figures who defy skepticism. Throughout this nation, across all walks of life, there exist true, selfless individuals who genuinely care for the populace—many of whom remain unknown.

Governor Mai Mala Buni is undoubtedly one of them.

The stories recounted here—the measured discipline concerning the vice principal, the forgiveness extended to critics, the empowerment of small traders and shoe shiners, the life-altering support for the individual who halted his convoy, his consistent loyalty from his time as a Councilor, and the national growth of his party under his stewardship—are not isolated incidents. They illustrate the depth of the Governor’s compassion, generosity, empathy, and humanity. They reveal a leader who perceives individuals not as mere statistics but as lives deserving dignity and compassion.

Join me in the next chapter as we delve into another fascinating segment of Mai Mala Buni's journey—a pioneering leader whose tenacity, strategic insight, and unparalleled determination continue to forge paths of destiny. Prepare to engage with a narrative as powerful and inspiring as the individual himself.

May Allah continue to elevate you, my hero and my Governor.