The oracle called Kashim Shettima

“In my idea of Borno, there is no APC, no PDP, no Muslim, no Christian, no Kanuri, No Babur, no Marghi or Shuwa. There is one united people of Borno, though faced with common threats, but driven by the indomitable spirit of resilence and God-given determination to overcome tribulations. I am an eternal optimist. I so much believe that we shall rise again…..” Governor Kashim Shettima (2012).

I write on Kashim Shettima I know without prejudice to the on-going debate or discussions on the single faith ticket of the All Progressive Congress (APC) which Kashim is involved.

In dealing with the subject matter, (Kashim) I am persuaded to make brief reference or recourse to the book titled “BEYOND THE SAD TALES” BORNO UNDER SHETTIMA” for the purpose of clarity and understanding. This book is authored by me, the write of this article.

Parts of Preface in the book read: “I did not vote for the All Nigeria People’s Party (ANPP) gubernatorial candidate in the person of Alhaji Kashim Shettima in the 2011 governorship election in Borno State for obvious reasons. First, he appeared a dark horse to me as I did not know much about him at that time. Secondly, I had an axe to grind with the ANPP administration in Borno State under the leadership of Governor Ali Modu Sheriff popularly designated SAS (Senator Ali Sheriff) though such grudge might be borne out of self-interest. Here was an administration (Ali Sheriff’s) that pledged to compensate the victims (of which I am one) of the February 18, 2006 sectarian revolt in Maiduguri, but reneged on its promise throughout its tenure in spite of repeated demands and  pleadings by well-meaning Nigerians from all walks of life to the administration to honour its pledge.

“On the fateful day now known in Borno as “Maiduguri Black Saturday” (February 18, 2006) a group of Muslim fundamentalists ostensibly protesting against the publication of a cartoon defaming Prophet Mohammed  (Peace be upon Him)in faraway Denmark decided to make Christians sacrificial lambs for no justifiable reasons.  In the inferno that followed the so called protest march, several souls were lost, over 50 churches destroyed, public and private property set ablaze within few hours. Before the shout of Jack Robinson, Borno, with its abiding philosophy – Home of Peace and Hospitality – was transformed into the theatre of war and hatred.

“I was among the hundreds of victims of the murderous and macabre display of man inhumanity to man as my property at Bolori Layout went in ruins with seven of the tenants burnt to ashes.   Few days after this dastardly act, Governor Sheriff set up a High Powered Committee of Inquiry headed by Ambassador Ahmed Baba Jiddah, the Secretary to the State Government. The committee was to ascertain, among others, the cause of the revolt, extent of damage and recommend measures to prevent future occurrence. The committee members visited the affected areas (including mine). In its verdict, the committee found the rioters who were mostly religious fanatics culpable, recommending some for trial in the court of law while others were absolved. It put the amount of property and valuables destroyed at N1.5 billion, with the governor pledging at different fora to compensate the victims. He did not keep his words throughout his tenure which ended in 2011.

“As the chairman of the affected group of victims made up of landlords, stores/commercial shop owners and tenants, letters were written to Governor Sheriff reminding him of his pledge. The letters were acknowledged at the Government House, Maiduguri. These were in addition to personal representations to the governor by some prominent persons on behalf of the victims. For example, the Co-Chairman of the Nigeria Inter-Religious Council, the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’aad Abubakar and Arch Bishop John Onaiyekan, during one of the council meetings in Maiduguri, impressed it on Governor Sheriff to honour his pledge but did not pay heed. So to me, voting for Kashim was synonymous with endorsing the continuity of an administration that was already in deficit of honour.

“Besides, Kashim’s gubernatorial opponent this time was Alhaji Mohammed Goni of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Goni was the first Executive Governor of Borno State between October 1979 and October 1983. Having known Goni for a considerable period as a seasoned civil servant and a performing governor in relation to relatively unknown Kashim, my vote was already a fish in the net of Goni. When eventually, Kashim was declared the winner of the race by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), to me and my co-victims of the 2006 dastardly act  it was not yet ‘uhuru’ as our hope for an alternative administration to ANPP did not materialise.

“With such disappointment, I as a journalist and public affairs commentator, adopted the siddon look (apology to Bola Ige) posture though with both eyes wide opened and ears to the ground with the Stoical believe would ‘anything good come out of Nazareth?’

“My first meeting with Kashim Shettima was expected to be inauspicious. It was never planned nor anticipated. On the fateful day, I went to Government House, Maiduguri to see a dedicated and committed colleague in person of Mallam Isa Gusau, the adviser (Media and Publicity) to Governor Shettima. Mallam Isa is popularly known to some of us as “Comrade Isa” due to his friendly disposition.

“Comrade Isa always accord some respect to my person. Rather than call me by name, he prefers addressing me “elder” or “Oga Vic”. On this fateful day, we exchanged pleasantries. As usual he offered me Malta Guinness. As I was sipping the beverage, Isa came on: “Elder, now that you are here, I will appreciate it if you can see my Oga (Governor)”. I asked with promptitude: “for what?” “Just to say hello to my Oga” was his response”. Not giving room for my reaction Isa added, “….as a matter of fact, I had planned to see him after the Zuhr (Muslim afternoon prayer) and now that you are here, I will like you to see him since I have introduced some of our colleagues to him. My Oga is media friendly, sociable and likes meeting people”. “Well, if you insist”, I responded in not too assuring approval.

“There and then a man in black suit briskly walked in without formalities saying in a firm tone: “Sir, Oga is free” and in a jiffy, my colleague ordered: “Elder (referring to me) let’s go”. Like a spell cast on me, I obeyed without resistance. Here I was face-to-face with the man called Kashim, the Governor of Borno State. Hardly had Comrade Isa finished the introduction when the governor grabbed my left hand and straight into an apartment that turned out to be the dining room in the Government House. There I observed some commissioners and two other persons standing, possibly waiting for the governor at the head of the table. I was right as the governor took his seat, they followed suit. Governor Shettima beckoned on me to take my seat and I obeyed. We were joined at the table by the state Deputy Governor, AlhajiZanna Mustapha and the Head of Service, Alhaji Abba Ashigashar (both now late).

“What is expected on occasion as this was wining and dining, but the governor and his deputy were doing more of talking on agriculture, education and poverty alleviation. I gave in more to eavesdropping than concentrating on the meals. He told his deputy to get prepared for an assignment outside the state besides intimating him with other assignments. Then he looked at me and asked in a friendly tone: “how are you fairing?” “Where do you live?” “Fine, I live in Bulumkutu/Abuja” was my response. Then he came swiftly, “How safe is that place?” “It’s okay”, I replied. He nodded his head. Just as I was about settling down to enjoy the meals, he stood up and others followed. I too joined. He left his seat, walked straight to me with a handshake, grab my right hand again and led me to the door saying: “thank you so much and let’s keep in contact”. I came down the stairs and straight into my car, forgetting to bid farewell to my primary host Mallam Isa, thinking about the simplicity, humility and the warm reception the governor accorded me. And as the saying goes: “first impression lasts longer,” Kashim started captivating my thoughts, if not emotions. However, before I could be swayed by his disposition, I dismissed it with the wave of the hand thinking that after all, the governor could just be chameleon politician with deceptive mien and sugar coated tongue. Events were to prove me utterly wrong.

“It was Governor Shettima’s broadcast to the people of Borno State on Saturday, July 16, 2011 and events thereafter that pricked, provoked, prodded and ultimately jostled me to action. The address, titled: “Islam and Peace in Borno” which could be regarded as the administration’s political testament and the road map, was thought provoking, incisive, sincere and brutal in frankness, placing square peg in square hole. In the address, Kashim, as sincere and honest individual, and as governor, admitted that his kinsmen were part of the security imbroglio Borno was passing through. Excerpts from the broadcast read: ”I am personally deeply pained by the trend of events. I am a native of Maiduguri, born, bred and buttered in the heart of Yerwa, from Nimeri Korongoso. Most of the insurgents are from well-known neighbourhood of Shehuri North, Shehuri South, Limanti, Lamisu Gamboru, Fezzan and Hausari wards of the metropolis”. He then appealed saying: I say unto you my brothers, what Hamid Karzai, the Afghan President said at the burial of his brother, Wali Ahmed Karzai, some few days ago.

“….my message for them (Talibans) is that my countrymen, my brothers, should stop killing their own people. It is easy to kill and everyone can do it, but the real man is the one who can save lives”. Governor Shettima declared: “The current state of insecurity and deplorable state of affairs is not unconnected with the attempt to impose the opinion of a small group on a large society, a situation which clearly abridges the freedom to freely express one’s opinion which is fundamental and inalienable in any given society.

“My fellow citizens, going by the present state of things, how can a true Muslim explain, let along profoundly justify, the current unfortunate cold blooded murders and bombings in the name of Islam? Islam means “peace and submission to the will of God” and this it should remain so, in both theory and practice. This was the understanding of our forefathers; theirs is the true meaning of Islam both in letter and spirit”.

“While reiterating that Islam never sanctioned the killing of non-Muslims and the destruction of their places of worship, Kashim reminded the Muslims that in the early phase of Islam, when Muslims were persecuted by the Makkan pagans, it was a Christian King that rescued them. In his words: “In the early phase of Islam, when Muslims were persecuted by the Makkan pagans, they sought refuge in present-day Ethiopia, under a Christian King, Negus. The Muslims stayed in Ethiopia for 15 years and all entreaties by the Makkan leaders for Negus to deport them were rebuffed by the just Christian King”.

“Governor Shettima told his people: “My fellow citizens, long years of peace, progress and social harmony for which Borno has come to be associated with the world over were hinged on the concepts and principles of tolerance and moderation. We must then return to the basics and embark the path of tolerance and moderation if we are to progress as a people, as a society, a state and to compete nationally and internationally. A situation where the name of our dear state, an epitome of peace, degenerates to signify violence with evoking fear in outsiders and trepidation in residents, leading to lack of free movement to attend to day-to-day activities, is clearly unacceptable”.

“He went on: “We are Muslims and Muslims do not harm innocent souls, much less fellow Muslims. Any interpretation or understanding of Islam which justifies killing of innocent people is condemnable and should be rebuked in toto”. Apart from July 2011, landmark address, there were similar addresses or statements by him that provoked elite interest and rustled the hornets’ nest.

Shettima’s brutal frankness, tolerance, pragmatism, achievement disposition, people-oriented programmes and participatory democracy were indeed the characteristics that endeared him to the masses, thus emphasizing that he could not be ignored. Besides, my religion teaches me that if you know what should be done but refused to do it, is committing sin. In the words of the Bible: “Anyone then, who knows the good he ought to do and doesn’t do it, sins”. James 4:17. In the final analysis, my instincts and sentiments predicated on self-centeredness much as I tried to hold firmly on the same could not sustain the weight or counterbalance my professional judgment and conscience. The latter holds sway or carry the day, as before long, I discovered myself singing the praise of Shettimania  the symbolic projection of achievement personified, despite that as at the time of writing this project, the cry of the victims of February 18, 2006 for justice has not been answered.”

Governor Shettima assumed office when the destiny and unity of Borno State was seriously and severely challenged and its binding force was giving way to anarchy. Things were becoming hopeless and falling apart. The present was bleak and the future foggy.  Anarchy and chaos prevailed.  The traditional Borno with the appellation of “Home of Peace and Hospitality”, suddenly donned the toga of “Home of Pieces”.  In Kashim words: “I was sworn in at a time where there were serial killings of innocent citizens; when insurgents recruited young men to set schools ablaze, when the Borno we knew when were growing up had become a shadow of itself, just because some few persons chose to violently impose their misguided views on us”.

No doubt the election of Governor Shettima at this critical period in Borno has proved to be one of God’s interventions in the moment of trials. Kashim Shettima inherited a big crisis but with great resilience, patriotism, humility, wisdom, uncommon devotion to duties, determination and faith in God he has been able to steer the ship of the state afloat in the troubled waters with the ultimate hope of landing safely on the shores. Kashim is indeed a silent mover and believes in the saying of Martin Luther King that “The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy”. He remained unshaken in spite of the turbulence he discovered himself as he reminds the people always of the immortal words of Peter Mashall which goes, “….. when we long for life without difficulties, remind us that oaks grow strong in contrary winds and diamonds are made under pressure”.

He admitted that at the beginning, he encountered fear and thought of abdicating the throne but later conquered the fear bearing in mind that the survival of Borno which he has vowed to accomplish with the help of God outweighed his fear. Thereafter, Kashim resolved that it is better to die in the flower of youth for the cause of the people to win a noble prize than to live like a dead sheep unknown and unrenowned.

As Governor, Kashim fearlessly converted retreat to advance. A humble statesman who however is courageously stubborn at getting what he wants provided he is convinced.

The success story of the Shettima administration in the multi-dimensional storm of Borno lies, amongst other factors, on his strength of character, humility, will power, in-depth knowledge of his environment and love for all. The strength of character in him reveals strong personal qualities such as ability to deal with the difficult or dangerous situations. A pragmatist and an incurable optimist who does not believe in failure as according to him “There will always be a way out.” Besides his open mindedness, open door policy and nationalistic disposition allowed free flow of information to and fro from within and out as well the willing contributions of all especially, dedicated resource persons, seasoned professionals, accomplished technocrats and experts in all sectors. Shettima had made it clear on several occasions that he is more disposed to people of intellect to people of power. His appointments whether on ad-hoc, advisory or permanent basis cut across party, religious or ethnic boundaries. In short, as a governor he was a replica of Mohammed Goni in achievement disposition, patriotism and nationalism.

Shettima, a teacher, banker and politician gentleman from the humble Kanuri background confronted the multi-faceted problems of Borno in a multi-dimensional approach placing square pegs in square holes. The administration evolved an all-embracing comprehensive Marshal Plan to confront the challenges in various sectors. The experienced garnered by Shettima as a teacher, banker and commissioner (in 5 different ministries under Senator Ali Sheriff’s administration), in both public and private sectors impacted positively on the path of his successful sojourn as the Borno state governor.

Kashim’s Brutal Frankness

Kashim’s brutal frankness especially on contemporary issues as governor have earned him the accolades and ally of the masses while at the game time stirred the hornet nest and provoked the elitist anger who accused of bitter-coated tongue. He had on occasions sowed the wind and dared the whirl-wind. Kashim Shettima it was, he told President Goodluck Jonathan that the Federal should stop playing the ostrich game by treating Boko Haram insurgents with kid sleeve gloves warning that should this situation remained unreversed, the Jonathan’s administration should expect the success of Boko Haram who had superior weapons to that of the Nigerian Security agencies. For this candid advice, Kashim Shettima burnt his fingers as both President Jonathan and some of his aides castigated and punished Kashim for opening his mouth too wide. Apart from rebuking Kashim, the soldiers on guard at the Government House, Maiduguri, were withdrawn and replaced by the police, a threat President Jonathan had promised and made do of it for Governor Shettima open rebuke of his administration.

Even at the emergence of Boko Haram onslaught in Borno state, Shettima had warned the nation that the assault was not that of, Borno alone, but the entire country. Nobody listened until Boko Haram became national epidemic.

Apart from publicly accusing some of his kinsmen of masterminds of the insurgency, Kashim similarly indicted some Borno elite and politicians of inciting disaffection within to cause unrest and instability against his administration. According to him certain vicious elements in Borno with deep rooted prejudice against his administration have constituted themselves to a group of acute subversion against his government and promised to expose them. In his words, “I am aware of the consequences of exposing the masquerade in the public, I will do so if this become inevitable. He for example, made reference to a prominent Borno businessman and a politician who could not afford a dime or kobo for the upkeep of the victims of Boko Haram, but on the other hand gave billions of naira to a political party as donation.

It would be recalled that in similar manner, the Nigerian Army had in statements accused some elite and politicians in the Northeast especially, in Borno state of trying to frustrate the war on insurgency for self-interest.

Reacting to the face-off between him and his predecessor, Senator Ali Modu Sheriff, who double as his political God father, Kashim boldly said, “It is a shame, a big shame that we dragged ourselves into fighting over political space when people are dying. The peace and stability of Borno is bigger than any of us. Posterity will not forgive us if we sacrifice the emerging peace in the state for our selfish political interests. God will punish all of us from this world before and hereafter and we cannot afford the wrath of God. We must bring down our ego. Nothing destroys a man like ego. It is in the Qur’an and I am sure in the Bible too. Pride is evil.”

On the leadership in the north Kashim declared, “The hottest place in the hell fire will be reserved for the Northern elite who are living in the Islands of affluence and extravagance in the unending ocean of poverty and deprivation when 80 percent of our people are extremely poor. We take our wards to posh private schools, abandoning the children of the poor to become ECOMOG, Yau Kalare and Yau Tauri and sundry elements to be used during electioneering campaigns. The youths are hungry and angry. We have few years, five to 10 years to make amends or these young men will descend upon us”.

At the gathering of Northern Traditional Rulers and elite at Lugard Hall, Kaduna Governor Shettima gave a sorrowful picture of the North to the audience. In his words, “North is a poor, pathetic shadow of its former self. A well-endowed promising geographic space which accounts for over 70% of Nigeria land mass, up to at least 60% of its population, with huge solid minerals resources with potentials for hydrocarbon resources, a growing mining industry, rich arable lands, a blossoming agro-industrial economy, Nigeria’s wealthiest region by GDP and the region with the brightest prospect. Prospect for accelerated economic growth, in short, arguably Nigeria’s most thriving region, has literarily conspired against itself to be reduced to the laughing stock of the world. Northern Nigeria today is blighted by a deadly albeit retreating insurgency, rural armed banditry, cattle rusting, ethnic and religious conflicts, the underlying causes of which are poverty, illiteracy, social exclusivity and severely limited economic opportunities.” Shettima never spared some fraudulent Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) in the state who exploited the victims of the insurgency. He warned them to desist or get the Red Card.

Shettima is indeed a character of long suffering and pains. As Borno state governor he had seen more sorrow, blood, deaths and destruction than any of his counterparts. Asked in a press interview why he (Kashim) is reported to have admitted that he was an unhappy governor, Kashim replied “…. How can I be happy when citizens I am under constitutional oath, and with moral and religious duty to protect are being killed. How can I be happy when as we speak, over 200 daughters of Borno are being held somewhere? How can I be happy when hundreds of Borno sons and daughters are six feet under the ground out of cruelty? How can I be happy when, as a governor, I am forced to close down schools? How can I be happy when hundreds have lost their homes and sources of livelihood? How can I be happy when we have spent over N10 billion that should have been used for developmental needs to resist man’s inhumanity, and yet we are still spending? How can I be happy when people were forced to close their shops, avoid markets, abandon schools, and stay away from the relations?

“How can I be happy when the economy of Borno is being grounded to a halt by our own people? I just don’t want to go on, please. Only Allah knows exactly how I feel. Not even I can explain the extent of what goes through my mind every day. There was one night, about one and half years ago, I was thinking that I should resign. I was so frustrated that the insurgents were waxing very strong, I was feeling helpless and I didn’t want Borno to collapse and surrender to insurgents under a regime that had me at the helm of affairs. But then, I thought that somebody has to be at the helm of affairs in Borno. If I am not there, someone has to be there. By the way, I asked myself, what was it that was to make me leave? Was it fear of death, fear of challenge or just trauma?

“I am a fanatic of motivational quotes. There was one by Meg Cabot that inspires me, which states that “Courage is not the absence of fear, but rather the judgment that something is more important than fear. The brave may not live forever but the cautious do not live at all”. That night, I then said to myself, wasn’t it better for a leader to die for a good cause than to abandon his own kinsmen and women to live for nothing at all and forever be remembered for abandoning his people? Since that day, I made up my mind to confront whatever challenge is before Borno State and work towards the recovery and progress of the state. I have conquered the fear of challenge, but I live with the reality of the trauma our citizens face and that gives me immense headache. I have resolved without any doubt that Insha Allah, we will together as a people rise again. Borno will be great again, I tell you. In my idea of Borno, there is no APC, no PDP, no Muslim, no Christian, no Kanuri, no Babur, no Marghi or Shuwa. There is one united people of Borno, though faced with common threats, but driven by the indomitable spirit of resilience and the God-given determination to overcome tribulations. I am an eternal optimist. I so much believe that we shall rise again….”

On whether the Boko Haram insurgency was aimed at frustrating his administration as earlier reported, Kashim responded: “The motive would have been mild if it was to frustrate government. There might be other motives I might not know, but to my understanding the motive is to take over the souls of the people of Borno and turn them into slaves of violent ideology. The motive is nothing short of destruction of lives and property with the aim of taking over human thoughts and curtailing their rights and privileges. The motive is to send into extinction any human race that is opposed to a violent doctrine that has no basis in Islam”.

Below are some comments and testimonies on Shettima by his teacher, co-workers in Zenith Bank, fellow governors, the Shehu of Borno, President Muhammad Buhari, Christian Community, the military and the press.

Professor (Venerable) Bankole Oluwafemi Ogunbameru was Kashim’s mentor and teacher for years. When asked of his comments on his former student Kashim, Professor Ogunbameru, typical of teachers, wrote volumes. His deep knowledge on Kashim under the title, “ALL THAT I KNOW ABOUT HONORABLE KASHIM SHETTIMA AS HIS TEACHER” is overwhelming. However for lack of space, some parts are reproduced unedited:

“It is indeed a wise man’s saying that first impression last long (longer). My first face-to-face contact with Hon. Governor Kashim Shettima dated back to 1990 when he was an undergraduate student in the then Department of Agricultural Economics and Extension Services, University of Maiduguri. The Department has now been split into two, namely: Department of Agricultural Economics and Department of Agricultural Extension Services. All what follows after the first encounter, gives me the conviction that Hon. Shettima is destined to be a transparent leader par excellence. Ordinarily, what a man or woman will later become in life starts to manifest right from his/her adolescence. In a nutshell, I have every reason to claim that Hon. Kashim Shettima is a young gentleman with great wisdom. It is scripturally advocated that it is better to choose wisdom than gold, and it is better to get understanding than silver. It is the wisdom of God that has been energizing and propelling him to achieve the feat recorded while in University of Maiduguri as well as at Zenith Bank and in government.

“In my undergraduate days, I used to support my answers during examinations with relevant quotable quotes to impress the lecturers that I understood their courses. Likewise, Hon. Kashim Shettima when he was an undergraduate student used to buttress his answers with relevant quotes. Initially, I thought he was only trying to be pranky. My boss in the State Ministry of agriculture when I was an Agricultural Superintendent once told me; “I belong to the old school, consequently, I know both the old and the new tricks”. It means an elder is a convergence of both the old and new schools.

“In one of the continuous assessments that I gave his class when he was in the final year, he quoted from six different authors to buttress his points. I resolved to ascertain the accuracy of the quotations, I wrote “see me” on his answer script. Immediately he received the script from the Class Representative and read the instruction written on it, he showed up in my office. Unknown to him why I invited him, he wanted to panic. Of course, it is not uncommon for any student to wonder why a lecturer should invite him/her to see him. With a smile, I asked him if he actually read the books he cited in his answer script. The answer was in the affirmative. I then asked him if he could bring any two of the books to me that I was interested to read them. Behold, he brought them the following day and I read the quotations therein. That is exactly what started my endearment to him. I identified him to be a brilliant, confident and respectable student who could read extra books in order to acquire more knowledge. No wonder, even when he was a Banker and a Commissioner, as early as 6am every Monday he continued to text inspirational quotes to me. In fact, the text used to wake me up at times. He generally ended each quotation with: “Sir, I wish you a very successful and pleasant working week ahead”. Even as an executive governor of the State, he still periodically finds time out of his very tight schedule to text messages to me. Most of his quotes are from renowned world leaders such as the American presidents Abraham Lincoln, J.F. Kennedy, Jimmy Carter and Bill Clinton, who have impacted positively the lives of their people. Consequently, it does not surprise me at all that Hon. Kashim Shettima now behaves and governs like those world leaders.

“I was the Head of Department of Agricultural Economics and Extension Services, University of Maiduguri, when Hon. Kashim Shettima was employed as graduate assistant. Immediately he assumed duty he gave me his letter of admission to the University of Ibadan (UI) for Master of Science (M.Sc.) degree programme in Agricultural Economics. I warmly and whole heartedly congratulated him. I counseled him to put in his very best to excel academically at University of Ibadan as a worthy ambassador of both our department and university. He guaranteed me that he would not disappoint me and indeed, he did not let me down.

“After counseling him on certain issues, I asked him to apply to the University for sponsorship. With a smile on his face, he told me that he would sponsor himself. I told him the implication of sponsoring himself. “What is the implication?” he asked. I said “it simply means you are not obliged to come back to the university after the successful completion of the programme.” He assured me that he would certainly come back.

“Within a record time of two academic sessions, he successfully completed the M.Sc. Agricultural Economics programme. Indeed, he kept to his words by returning to the Department. He was immediately upgraded as an Assistant Lecturer. It is noteworthy that Hon. Kashim Shettima graduated with a cumulative Grade Point Average that qualified him to proceed for the Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D) degree in Agricultural Economics. Undoubtedly, he is a very straight forward, frank and trust worthy gentleman.

“When he wanted to withdraw his services from the University, he followed the due process to the core. In fact, he did something that Napoleon could not have done. At the beginning of the academic session, he was paid the house rent allowance by the university. However, he applied for the withdrawal of his service four months before the expiration of his tenancy. He told me he would refund some amount back to the University. I pointed it out to him that the University management knew that the most pious landlord would never refund the money to him. I further tried to make him understand that the best a landlord would do was to ask him to look for someone to complete his tenancy. To my greatest surprise Hon. Kashim Shettima insisted that he would refund the balance. I could vividly recollect what he told me. “Sir, I have decided to refund the money because I want to leave the system on a clean slate, peradventure I come back to the system tomorrow, my conscience will be clean and clear”, I quote. Yes he left the University of Maiduguri on a very clean slate. He completed his marking schemes and results were given to me before he disengaged to take up an appointment with the Commercial Bank of Africa. Of a truth, Hon. Kashim Shettima graduated from the University of Maiduguri based on both “character and learning”. Consequently, it is not a surprise that wherever he worked he gave the University of Maiduguri a good image. We are very proud of him. Even in governance, he is adjudged by both the youths and elders of the state that he is trying his best to turn things around for better in Borno State. This is justified by the commendable and people-oriented transformation projects and programmes, particularly in education, agriculture, poverty alleviation, health and infrastructural development.

“As quiet and meek as Hon. Kashim Shettima was when he was an undergraduate student, he was a rally point to many students in the Faculty of Agriculture and in his hall of residence. His colleagues liked to listen to his oration and citation because of the wisdom he always display. In fact, most of his classmates wanted him to be in their study groups. He was elected the Editor-in-Chief of the Faculty of Agriculture students’ magazine.

“Let me leak something about Hon. Kashim Shettima. He can be very emphatic when discussing important issues. He has double advantage in making his points to be convincingly clear. He is gifted. He uses both his right and left hand effectively to demonstrate and illustrate points. What an oracle, he is!!!

“Believe it or not, it may interest you to know that Hon. Kashim Shettima sticks to his Airtel telephone number ever since he started using it as a banker and even now as an executive governor. He sends and replies text messages and returns all missed phone calls.

Writing under the headline “KASHIM SHETTIMA THAT I KNOW” Mrs. Comfort Ibrahim, a senior manager at the Zenith Bank, Maiduguri attests: –

“Every soul that has come across him will no doubt be touched by a gesture of selfless service. He is a man called forth that has provided the state with the much needed leadership it deserves. He is level-headed and full of wisdom; having spent close to 10 years with him, I can say he is quite an interesting individual.

“He is such a person that gives you so much assurance that even when the stormy weather hits you, he tells you it’s not so bad, it can only get better. A father figure to all of us, he is a good listener and takes his time making a decision that even if you feel at the moment it won’t work, it’s for best at the long run.

“He is a goal-getter and has an ardent believe that “hard work, not hard luck, always pays”. He has taught me personally to be calm, choose my words in conversations and stay alert always.

“Back in the days when he used to be the branch head of Zenith Bank, Maiduguri, he would send us text messages at 4am and expect us to reply him. He often jokes that we do not have reasons to sleep away our lives when we have targets to meet. He will drive us crazy just to meet our deadlines and, to tell you the truth, we enjoyed every bit of it.

“He always used to assure us that work does not kill and that “one day when we cross the Rubicon, we will sit down, relax and have a cup of tea.” we never crossed the Rubicon, of course! He was always enlarging our goal posts as we meet our targets.

“He is very sympathetic and can easily be driven to tears by unimaginable situations. He is firm in his decision making criteria and does not take NO for an answer from lazy people.

“He is a deep rooted thoughtful person; this gives him a room to study every individual he associates with thereby assigning specific roles to specific individuals without doubting their capabilities. He contains his anger within the quiet of his heart and sometimes throws his shoe up just to let it out. He is quiet funny, especially when you think you can approach him with an angry face. He will ridicule you to a laugh just to relax you and get to hear what you need to say.

On his perception of Kashim Shettima as his manager in the Zenith Bank, Maiduguri and as his aide in the State Government Hon. Chief Kester C. Ogualli writes under the title: KASHIM PLUCKED ME FROM UNDER THE TREE

“I met Kashim Shettima then, the Branch Head Zenith Bank Plc, Maiduguri in the year 2001. As I sat under the tree by my family home at State Lowcost Estate, he walked up to our Majalis and I was introduced to him by one of his relatives. I was a job seeker; Kashim saw the potentials in me and offered me to join Zenith Bank as a marketing staff. This I joyfully accepted and Kashim deftly chiseled me to shape like a skilled sculptor.

“My connection to Kashim was not only timely, it was timeless in appeal. My appointment into Zenith Bank was orchestrated by Kashim Shettima who believed in my ability and content of my character and not the ethnic stock I come from. Under his watchful guidance, I was able to rise from the level of an executive assistant to the level of a manager within a span of seven years! To my peers in the system, the feat was spectacular. How could an Igbo man rise through the grid that quick in Borno state in seven years?

The answers were readily available. It is a glaring fact that Kashim Shettima midwife my appointment and carefully guided, paneled, nurtured, polished and refined me from being a greenhorn to a very reliable result-oriented banker.

“In his days at Zenith Bank I found Kashim to be fair, firm and straight. A great leader who believes in growing his team. Like the great Shakespeare said in his book, Comedy of Errors “Let’s go hand in hand, not one before another.” His desire to teach and impact positively on people is volcanic, ever willing to advise, lend a helping hand and proffer solutions.

“On assumption into office as the Executive Governor of Borno State, his Excellency have addressed situations with deft and Midas touch. He has been able to fearlessly convert retreat into advance. Only a foolish optimist can deny the dark realities that he met in office.

In a joint congratulatory message to Governor Shettima on his 47th birthday, the APC governors, in the message captioned “A Natural Progressive at 47” said “We join your family, the good people of Borno state, the APC family and indeed all Progressive minded Nigerians to celebrate you, our kind and able brother, as you attain the age of 47 today.

“You inherited a big crisis but with great resilience, extreme wisdom, absolute humility, patriotism and uncommon devotion to duties, you have in the last two years worked day and night and behold, the ancient and large city of Maiduguri, which used to be most troubled, is now stable and peace is also emerging across the entire Borno. There is no question about the progress being recorded by Borno in different sectors; we saw and confirmed your wonderful accomplishment for Borno citizens during our landmark visit to Maiduguri some months ago.

“You have proved to be God’s intervention in Borno’s trying time. We are so sure, like you have repeatedly said in your eloquent remarks that the Borno sun will shine brighter than ever and Borno shall rise again. We stand by you and the people of Borno”.

The Chairman, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Borno State branch, Dr. Titus Pona, described Governor Shettima as an arbiter who steer – via media course – between religious groups in the state. Dr. Pona explained that since assumption of office as the state governor, Kashim had demonstrated unequivocally that he is not a religious bigot or fanatic. Instead, the no love lost which had hitherto existed between the authority and the Christian community in the state has greatly improved. According to the chairman, no authority in the state has touched the lives of Christians as the administration of Kashim Shettima. Since the coming into office of Governor Shettima, the government sponsorship of Christians to Israel has been spectacular and very encouraging. The Nigerian Ambassador to the State of Israel, Mr. David Obasa, attested to the assertion of the CAN chairman while addressing the Christian pilgrims from Borno in Jerusalem in April 2014. The ambassador pointed out that since assumption of office in Israel, the sponsorship of Christians to the Holy Land by Borno State Government exceeded that of any state in Nigeria. He commended Governor Shettima for this religious tolerance and charged other states in Nigeria to emulate this gesture as it enhances unity among the Muslims and Christians.

The successor to Dr. Titus Pona as CAN state chairman, Bishop Mohammed Naga reiterated the same gesture and hands of fellowship of Kashim Shettima to the state CAN and its members. Bishop Naga made reference in particular to efforts made by Kashim’s administration in the reconstruction of destroyed churches by the insurgents. Naga however pointed out that there are still areas of unresolved issues between the state CAN and the state government. Amongst these are refusal by the state government to allow the teaching of Christian Religious Knowledge (CRK) in schools in the state as well refusal to grant Certificate of Occupancy to Christian denominations to build church in the state. Bishop Naga pointed out that these are vital issues that must be addressed dispassionately for peaceful co-existence.

Kashim’s tolerance for other faiths especially, Christianity is unequivocal. He demonstrated this even at Government functions. It is a tradition at every government functions to start with Muslim prayer and ends with the same. However, in a situation where Christians are involved either in courtesy calls or other functions, Kashim would always call on a member of the delegation to give the closing prayer. Kashim he was went on condolence visit to the people of Damboa following deadly attack of the insurgents in the town and told the people while addressing them, “It is the prayer of the Muslims and Christians that is among others is sustaining us”.

Testifying on the leadership style of Kashim Shettima, at the All Progressives Congress (APC) Northern leaders meeting in Kaduna on October 2014, its Presidential candidate General Muhammadu Buhari (Rtd) declared, “from what I have seen in Governor Kashim Shettima today, there is a clear indication of hope in the future of Nigeria; there is still an indication that this country (Nigeria) still has true leaders”. Still on Shettima, General Muhammadu Buhari now as President Elect, Federal Republic of Nigeria at an exclusive interview in Abuja on March, 2015 said, “Governor Kashim Shettima has remained with the people of Borno state passing through all phases and doing very well in steering the affairs of the state at a challenging time. He never abandoned his people for one day. There is need for the people of Borno to come out in very large numbers to re-elect Governor Kashim come April 11, 2015. He deserves a second term”.

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo described Kashim Shettima as a fearless leader with strong faith. The former President who was in Maiduguri in March 2018 for the third edition of Zero Hunger Initiative explained that Kashim has been drawing people to the state even in the midst of Boko Haram insurgency. In his words to Kashim, “You are a man of faith. Everybody is always worried about this place but you have always been saying, come, there is no problem”.

The testimony of the Shehu of Borno Alhaji Abubakar Ibn Umar Garbai El-Kanemi, CON, who is also chairman of Borno state Council of Chiefs goes, “Borno is lucky to have the right person that perfectly fits our challenging time. We are happy to have a very good, compassionate, highly committed and selfless son like Governor Kashim Shettima at the helm of affairs. He is evidently doing everything humanly possible in an effort to address our security problems. He stands by his people and supports them while at the same time transforming all sectors of Borno state. He deserves the support of every son and daughter of Borno”.

According to Major General Lawrence Ndugbane, Director of Operations, Defence Headquarters, Abuja when he led a military delegation on a courtesy call on the Governor at the Government House, Maiduguri in April, 2013, “Governor Kashim Shettima has accorded extraordinary support to the Nigeria military in an effort to address the security challenges in Borno state. His support is more than providing so much logistics, he goes the extra mile”.

Governor Shettima in two weeks won 4 media awards. All the awards which recognized Governor Shettima based on “courage” and “outstanding leadership” in efficiently steering the affairs of Borno state in the midst of Boko Haram crisis came from Silver Bird Television, African Independent Television (AIT), The Nigerian News-direct Newspapers and The Sun Publishing Company.

In recognition of his performance and leadership qualities, Shettima was Nigeria’s Governor of the Year, 2014 based on the independent editorial assessment of Leadership Newspaper Abuja, he was Nigeria’s Governor of the Year 2015, from the view of the national leadership of the Nigeria Union of Journalists; he was Nigeria’s Governor of the Year, 2015 from the editorial assessment of News Watch Times Newspapers, Lagos and he was also Governor of the Year 2015 from the editorial assessment of Vanguard Newspapers, Lagos.

Reports had it that Shettima who is very sensitive to the perceived marginalization of the minorities’ as well Christian faithful in the state had on some occasions personally intervene to correct anomalies when detected. For example, in course of his visit to government ministries and parastatals in Maiduguri, he discovered some agricultural machines at one of the parastals idle. He immediately directed the same to be taken to Biu in Southern Borno saying, “These should be sent to the right place.” In similar development, the report had it that Kashim had to intervene in the distribution of scholarships to indigenes of the state to ensure fairness, equity and justice.

KASHIM’S ADMINISTRATION IN FOCUS

Kashim is a prudent manager of resources. As a banker, Kashim wants the maximum at minimum cost. He assumed the governorship of Borno where the world and indeed Nigeria was experiencing recession. With hindsight and his background as a professional banker worthy of his salt, he embarked in Maiduguri buying some public and individuals land assets on behalf of the government. There were hues and cries from some quarters as this action of his did not go down well with the concerned group. However, today, Borno state is better off as the property bought by Kashim have now attracted almost five times the market price if the assets were to be disposed off now. Besides, some of these have become invaluable utilities to the government both as offices, quarters and government guest houses.

Fighting Insecurity and Poverty with “Green Guns”

Fully aware that agriculture is the greatest employer of Labour, Shettima, an agriculturists, chose to address the problem of poverty alleviation and youth empowerment via agriculture without prejudice to other methods. According to him, “We want agriculture to be the centre piece of all our developmental initiatives, all other things will revolve it. A Borno man has no business being poor. We have enough arable land for agriculture. With this conviction, Governor Shettima since assumed adopted what is generally referred to as the “Green guns” approach to fighting insecurity in Borno. This approach is a strategy for fighting poverty and by extension insecurity through agriculture instead of fighting the same with AK47 rifles and other lethal weapons. He fought the battle on the arable land of Borno as he deployed various arsenals into it via agriculture.

From the outset, Shettima constituted 23 man Agriculture Transformation Team consisting of seasoned farmers, academics and agricultural scientists to overhaul and reinvigorate the sector in the state. The team proved its worth as members visited some countries, relevant institutions and organizations and came up with inputs and fresh ideas that enhanced the transformation drive in this sector with marked strides. Shettima’s administration this time emphasized manpower development, availability of the essentials and continuity of service as far as practicable in all the sectors with emphasis on priority areas such as agriculture. For example in 2012, the government purchased hybrid seeds of rice worth over 100 million that can cultivate more than 100,000 hectares. It also bought wheat to cultivate 10,000 to 20,000 hectares in the Chad Basin. It raised 10 million seedlings of Arasia Senegalese for planting in the 10 frontline Local Government Councils areas in the northern Borno. It also raised 1.5 million seedlings of Jathropher, 50,000 seedlings of neem tree, 50,000 seedlings of Mango and guava to boost horticulture, 18,000 metric tons of NPK and UREA fertilizer at 50 percent subsidy and 10,000 metric tons of assorted fertilizers well procured best gun Arabic seeds.

It bought also additional processing equipment from England for tomatoes and pepper as well other agricultural implements such as threshers, ploughs, harrow, ridges and others from Egypt, all in the Vanguard of Agricultural Transformation policy.

The state government went into partnership with the Chad Basin Development Authority (CBDA) by giving the establishment some heavy equipment and trucks of diesel to power machines for the 2011/2012 cropping season. This resulted in the production of over 10,000 bags of wheat and thousands of bags of onions which the government bought from the farmers for Nl00 million and at prices advantageous to the primary producers. The wheat was ploughed over as seedlings to further cultivate 7, 000 hectares of the crop through in partnership with CBDA. Thousands of youths were thus gainfully engaged. Similarly, for the 2012/2013 cropping season over 5,000 hectares of land was put on wheat cultivation. Each family, made up of not less than five members was expected to get 1.6 hectare land allocation for wheat planting. While 3,500 families were expected to benefit, over 20,000 youths were employed for the exercise. 150,000 tons of wheat was planned for the 2012/2013 cropping season expected to yield 5, 000 trailers of wheat. So far, the state government spent over N300 million (excluding tractors), N50 million on seeds, excluding fertilizers and others, on the agricultural ventures. Apart from employing thousands of youths in the cultivation of various crops, government insisted that practitioners be exposed to the techniques and farming procedures since they would at the end, be on their own.

Similarly, the state government sent over 50 graduates on three-month training on integrated agriculture in Kasetsat University, Thailand. While there the students undergo training in vegetable farming, rice farming and processing, water management and irrigation, pest control and organic production of pesticides, fish farming and processing, poultry farming and bio gas electricity generation and cassava plantation and preservation.  Back home, each graduate was expected to train at least 10, 000 Borno citizens in his or her areas of specialization. The scheme gulped N80 million. Another batch of graduates left for Egypt and Republic of Benin for similar courses. Similarly, on coming back home, the beneficiaries were expected to impact the knowledge so gained on thousands of Borno citizens. The state government did not lost sight of home facilities as some of the youths were trained in and/or exposed to established agricultural institutions or farms in the country. An example is Murtala Nyako’s Farms where about 100 Borno youths were trained in agriculture.

Also, the eight year tenure of Kashim Shettima as Borno state Governor witnessed about 100,000 youths trained in poultry production/management, making of hydra form bricks, tailoring, embroidery, knitting, carpentry, building, electrical works, welding, hair dressing, tricycle repairs and other related areas. In most cases most trainees on completion of their training were provided with tools. Side by side with various government programmes on poverty alleviation is its policy of providing a healthy and attractive agricultural atmosphere through provision of inputs free or at subsidized rates to farmers to boost agriculture and ensure food security. This is in addition to other liberal conditions to access funds for agricultural purposes.

Government in 2014 embarked on further purchase of 50 combined harvesters, 1,405 units of tractors and 1,418 pieces of planters as well as construction of rice mills and distribution of 600 assorted smaller rice mills and 24 vegetable oil mills. In 2014, the state government distributed 10,000 units of Family Drip Irrigation facilities and completed the installation of 50 units of centre-pivot sprinkler irrigation system with capacities for effective watering of 1,750 hectares. It construct net houses in the local governments. The Shettima administration paid the counterpart funding of the Fadama III programme which was launched in 2014. Considering the devastating effect of the insurgency on farming activities government embarked on the purchase of large quantities of grains and sold to the citizens at subsidized rates while conscious efforts were made to train and retrain staff to increase human capacity building to meet contemporary challenges.

To ensure that farmers in the state, especially the enterprising ones, are not starved of funds in the operations of farming, Governor Shettima in 2012 approved the signing of Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Fidelity Bank PIc to access N1billion loan for distribution to farmers.

The provision of over 200 motorcycles to boost the activities of BOSADP during Kashim’s administration was a watershed as record showed before the coming in of Kashim’s government the culture of agricultural extension services were no longer in existence. Inspite of the insurgency this time that ravaged some parts of the state and deprived many especially, the farmers of their means of livelihood, Borno never experienced hunger to the glory of God and foresight of Governor Shettima whose programme initiatives in agriculture have impacted positively on the society.

The “Green” guns approach of the Shettima’s administration yielded dividends and received applause from various institutions, individuals, organizations. Recall the views expressed by Chief Audu Ogbeh, former National Chairman of PDP, former Minister for Agriculture and renowned agriculturist that Governor Shettima had adopted strategic and dynamic measures to build Borno economy and create jobs in the state through agriculture. Chief Ogbeh noted that the measure would in the long run engage restive youths and curtailed the disposition to violence.

Kashim and Education

There is an injunction on the Muslims to seek knowledge as far as China while the Bible warns Christians that “My people perish because they lack knowledge.” Knowledge should be acquired for its sake not only for the numerous advantages it brings. Did the Kanuri not say “KARA YAYE RIMIYA DUO WANE” meaning “Learn, even if it is witchcraft not minding whether you practice it or not.

On assumption of office, Governor Shettima inherited a sickbay educational system nose-diving down the precipice with problems in leaps and bounds. For example, he discovered to his chagrin that in a senatorial zone of the state only two students could meet the admission requirements of a university in the past two years. Before the shout of Jack Robinson, Kashim declared a “State of Emergency” in the state educational sector with a matching order and red alert card to the stakeholders embracing teachers, students, parents, all political appointees, local government councils and himself (Governor). The directive was sweeping as Shettima adopted the carrot and stick approach making it crystal clear that would take Borno back to the “East,” Borno’s glorious past of scholarship and learning. He was emphatic that there would be no hiding place for anyone. Shettima, a one-time University teacher and erstwhile Commissioner for Education among others in the administration of Senator Ali Modu Sheriff knew how to place and play his cards and was determined not to leave any stone unturned.

Added problem to Shettima’s woes on dwindling fortunes of education sector in the state was the constant destruction of educational structure (especially buildings of schools) by the insurgents. To this menace, he had an immediate response. He made clear that if the insurgents destroy the schools twenty times, he would rebuild. He made do his promise as most schools especially those in urban centres destroyed by the members of Boko Haram were rebuilt in no time by Governor Shettima.

In attacking the cancerous situation of the education sector, Kashim adopted a holistic approach encompassing multi-dimensional approach. For example, fully aware that the situation would be tasking especially fund wise, Shettima on assuming office paid up all the areas of counterparts funding inherited from his predecessor in projects (including education) and with this done Borno state purse got swollen as billions of naira rolled in. Kashim not done, set up committees on various segments of education from primary to tertiary levels. The committees were made up of seasoned educationists, technocrats, administrators and given time frame to deliver on specific assigned areas. The committees include that of ovuality control as well that of feeding. Besides, the work of the committees Shettima on his own kept his eyes well opened and ears to the ground monitor all actors and players and would cry “foul” whenever he discovered mischief or observed non-performance and “Well done” for any good work.

The education committee on quality control did excellent job in getting teachers trained, ensuring pupils go to schools, recommending allocation of classrooms where needed, reviewing the teaching models syllabuses and making sure teachers get to school regularly and teach correctly. Similarly, the committee on feeding of students went into action to ensure that good and balanced meals were served to the students on time. Kashim’s administration raised the feeding allowance for students from 20 million he inherited to N100 monthly. The administration successfully implemented the consolidated Tertiary Salary Structure (CONTISS) and Harmonized Tertiary Institutions Salary Structure (HATISS) for lecturers in the state owned institutions.

The stakeholders’ forum continued this time to cross-fertilize ideas with a view to coming out with a master-plan or road map for the way forward to promoting educational system at all levels. The state government took responsibility for payment of WAEC, NECO and JAMB examinations fees for students throughout this period while at the time allowance to all the affected students of Borno in all the institutions in and outside the country.

With regards the primary school teachers, the recommended minimum wage for workers nationwide was negotiated and implemented while the state government built in the state capital “Teachers Village” consisting of various categories of modern houses solely for teachers.

A unique feature of Kashim’s administration in the building of Mega schools mostly fort the orphans as a result of the insurgency. The state government assumed full responsibility for the orphans both in schooling and other burden. In short, every child admitted into the school would be on full scholarship from basic to university education. As a result of Kashim’s administration progressive policy on education revival, there was an increase in school enrolment at primary and post primary levels.

Kashim’s governorship period saw massive reconstruction and rehabilitation of educational institutions as well building new ones where the need arose. The period also marked the establishment and takeoff of Borno state owned university – Borno State University along Kano road in the state capital.

Industrialization

In its bold drive to re-industrialization of Borno state, Kashim’s administration accelerated the construction of a New Industrial Layout in Maiduguri with the following factories:

  1. Boiled Water Production Company
  2. Corn Chips Production Industry
  3. Tomato and Pepper Production Company
  4. Onion and Garlic Dehydration Processing Company
  5. Drip Irrigation Production Plant
  6. Solar Plant Production Company

During his tenure all the machines and equipment required for these factories were procured, some installed and others being installed. On completion, these industries would create thousands of jobs at levels of processing, packaging and marketing.

With the commissioning of the industrial hub named Engr. Ibrahim Ali Industrial Hub by President Buhari, Borno has began once more the journey to industrialization abandoned after Governor Mohammed Goni era.

According to Shettima, “In the developed societies, governments support an employer of as low as five persons from going bankrupt the moment they establish that the employer didn’t compromise any ethical management principle. So, we have started that in Borno state. We are going into agreements with collapsed private industries to advance money to the owners to fix their industries and they in turn pay back by employing people and giving us the products they produce over time. We have reached such agreement with Borno Clay Industry and a vegetable company, we have revived the Clay Industry, it was even producing bricks before it had to close for a while due to the security challenges there, but it will resume soon Insha Allah. We have revived the Neital shoe factory, we now export finished leather to Italy and Spain for the first time since the company was established and abandoned for over 20 years. It has created hundreds of jobs. Laudable as the government industrial policy is, it is regrettable that the insurgency is frustrating this. Notwithstanding, the government is not relenting”, said the Governor.

Health Care Delivery

Conscious of the fact that the health of a nation or society is her best asset and the best   measure of its social progress, the Shettima’s administration left no stone unturned to   ensuring the success of the sector. He adopted a deft pragmatic approach, first, by   declaring a state of emergency in that sector and injecting huge doses of qualified   manpower, quality equipment and staff re-orientation. Secondly, on assumption of   office, the administration paid all outstanding counterpart funding’s to agencies in the   sector thus making it easier for the state to benefit from various health programmes,   including the eradication of polio, the six child killer diseases and maternal health   related issues. Before his assumption of office, most donor agencies and International Development Partners had relocated to other states, partly because of the security   challenges and the inability of the previous administrations to honour counterpart   funding agreements. The new administration turned the negative trend around with the payment of the counterpart funds for Malaria Control, TB/Leprosy, BOSACA and   UNFPA. The administration made it clear that the “out of stock syndrome” with regards   to essential drugs would be permanently expunged from the state’s dictionary through”   ensuring the steady supplies of such essential materials. For instance, in a jiffy, Shettima administration purchased and took delivery from USA, 35 ambulances with lifesaving equipment, 87 mobile clinics, drugs and other medical   equipment worth N500 million in 2012 for distribution to hospitals and healthcare   centres to augment the existing ones. In the enduring words of the governor: “Health is wealth and therefore no serious government can take for granted.” He pledged to   make qualitative health care services accessible to the people in all the 27 local governments.

To ensure good health for all, government was proactive in the implementation of   its programmes and projects. Towards this end, government constructed and fully   equipped general hospitals at Konduga, Briyel, Askira, Kalabalge, Chibok and   Gudumbali while those at Magumeri, Mafa, Dikwa and Kwaya-kusar were renovated,   upgraded and fully equipped. Similarly, Nursing Home, Women and Children hospitals,   General hospitals in Biu and Marte were upgraded and new structures constructed. The   Dental and Eye hospitals were renovated and fully equipped. To enable all categories of health workers perform their functions effectively; medical equipment, consumables   and furniture were provided in general hospitals in Konduga, Chibok, Dikwa, Mafa,   Kwaya Kusar and Biu. Similar gestures were extended to the Eye Hospital and the   Hospital Management Board Headquarters. In the same vein, eight ambulances were   delivered to general hospitals at Konduga, Mararna, Biu, Gudumbali, Uba, Kalabalge,   Chibok and Briye in addition to the 87 mobile clinics and 35 ambulances with lifesaving equipment bought from USA.

In human resource development, 310 medical students were placed on N20, 000 monthly allowance while each of the 1, 913 nursing, midwives and health technology students received N6, 000 per month. Government hired the services of 150 medical doctors, 250 nurses and midwives, 16 pharmacists and 47 tutors to boost the   workforce of the health sector. For example, special attention was given to the training of female medical doctors with 35 of them sent aboard in 2013 to study medicine in various countries. The exercise was repeated in 2014. The schools of Nursing and Midwifery in Maiduguri were accredited and provided with buses to ease movement of students while training and re-training of health workers was intensified.

In concept and practice, the Drugs Revolving Fund Scheme was reorganized and ARV, de-worming drugs and folly valets, anti-snake venom injection were procured in large quantities and distributed across the state. Child and maternal health were not left out as   newborn and child health immunization, mama kits and lifesaving drugs were   procured and distributed while immunization activities against polio and crusade against children killer diseases were pursued with greater vigour and major stakeholders and community leaders participated actively in mass mobilization exercises. The prevention is better than cure principle was accorded prime attention by the disease control arm of the Ministry of Health.

Fully aware of the misconceptions against polio immunization by a large percentage of the native population, the Shettima administration used the native instrument to correct the perception or misinformation. To this and with the hindsight of the important roles traditional rulers play in the society, the Social Mobilization Committee on Polio, in collaboration with the State Task Force and Technical Partners on Polio Eradication, held series of sensitization meetings with the districts heads under the Shehu of Borno, Shehu of Dikwa and the emirs of Bama, Biu and Gwoza, whose areas represent the local governments with the high risk for polio and high number of non-compliance. The outcome of the series of meetings not only brought out invaluable wisdom and advice but better understanding of the feelings of the hitherto apathetic populace as well the good intention of the government.

In crowning the committed effort of Governor Kashim’s administration in the fight against Polio Eradication, Borno State Government won the 2013 Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation Award. The award was presented to the governor by Mr. Bill Gates at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on November 11, 2013.

Ministry of Reconstruction, Rehabilitation and Resettlement

Apart from the Federal Government efforts at the reconstruction, rehabilitation and resettlement programme of the victims of the insurgency, state governments concerned in the North East region equally compliment the efforts of the federal government, donor agencies, organizations and NGOs in this regard. For example, the state worst hit in the destruction of lives and property is Borno, the epicenter of the insurgency. Even before the advent of federal government initiatives, Borno state government under Governor Kashim Shettima had evolved a Blue Print to this effect. The climax of this was the establishment by the state government of the Ministry of Reconstruction, Rehabilitation and Resettlement of communities affected by Boko Haram insurgency and other pre-war development programmes. The Ministry was headed by Dr. Babagana Umara Zulum a tested administrator cum technocrat. (Now Borno state Governor). Since establishment, the Ministry embarked on large scale reconstruction and rehabilitation of destroyed infrastructures which include schools, hospitals, public buildings, and residential quarters in various parts of the state.

Coming home to Borno, the epicenter of the insurgency a preliminary Validation by World Bank officials of a Post Insurgency Recovery and Peace Building Assessment report of 2016 indicated that Borno state lost 20, 000 citizens and suffered property damage worth $5.9 billion (N1.9trillion at the current parallel market exchange rate of N324 to a dollar) in the hands in the last seven years. This represents an estimate of the value of public and private property damaged by the insurgents’ war in the state’s 27 local government areas.

The assessment report presented by Borno state government to the World Bank for validation exclusively indicates that out of 3,232,308 private houses in the state, 956,453 or 30 percent were destroyed by insurgents. Worst hit is Mobbar Local government where out of 150, 585 private houses, 101,085 houses were destroyed. Abadam, Guzamala, Bama and Gwoza followed in the scale of destruction. More than 80percent of the houses in Bama local government were destroyed. The report also found that 5,335 classrooms and other school buildings were destroyed in primary, secondary schools and two tertiary institutions.

Shettima’s Marshall’s plan in the reconstruction, rehabilitation and resettlement of communities affected by the insurgency in multi-dimensional or multifaceted approach helped in the restoration of basic infrastructure, integration of lives and livelihood of thousands of people, the quick rehabilitation of agriculture land, the local economy, places of worship, health centres, bridges, schools including the creation of productive employment for the teeming unemployed citizens. His efforts also enhanced in the fast healing the scars of war in the affected local government area of Borno state as well complements the security restoration and peace building by the military.

Poverty Alleviation and Youth Empowerment

The Ministry of Poverty Alleviation and Youth Empowerment activities centred amongst others on, Youth Employment and Job/Wealth creation, Community Mobilization/Sensitization to enable communities embark on self-help communal projects to augment government efforts in the provision of social amenities to the citizenry. To organize and register groups into cooperative societies to enable them obtain loans/financial assistance from institutions as well from the Small Scale Scheme of the state government. Since assumption of office, Kashim Shettima’s administration intensified and increased in an unprecedented scale, the workload of the ministry through diversification, increased activities, initiatives and sensitization of youths for the overall benefit of especially the poor, the youths, women and children.

The Rural and Urban Transformation Programme of the state government was an all-embracing and impacted greatly on the people. There were construction of major and smaller roads, drainages and large scale building of residential quarters in Maiduguri and rural areas. In short side by side with the housing policy of the state government was its rural and urban transformation programme which took off in earnest inspite of the insurgency. For instance, in course of his tenure, Shettima’s administration embarked on the building of 2,500 housing units and apartments in various parts of the state capital.

Similarly the government never lose sight of the rural areas in its housing programme as 70 to 80 percent of the rural people live in houses made of thatched roofs and corn stocks. In the words of Governor Shettima, “Honestly, you can call me a paranoid character on the verge of lunacy, but I have some big dreams. Honestly, I want to build if possible as many as 100,000 houses for the poor. It is better, believe me, empowering the poor, building schools, building clinics, building homes than carrying bags of money during electioneering and going to the country side. If you can empower them, I am sure the people would be faithful to you. And what is the essence of governance?”

The Birth of Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF)

The  event that took place in Maiduguri mid-2013 when the youths traumatized, intimidated and many killed by the ravaging Boko Haram insurgents on one hand and humiliated by some members of the security agencies fighting insurgency in Borno on the other hand, conquered their fear not with machine guns, but with bows, arrows, sticks and, in rarity, the dane guns. With these (local weapons) they moved into the lion’s den calling for a fight. The sudden emergence of the youths in the climate of fear occasioned by the insurgents and other security challenges that engulfed Borno especially, the state capital this time was indeed a watershed. It was indeed a marvel that took both the civil populace and military by surprise.

Thereafter the equation, permutations and hitherto conceptions and misconceptions in the entire scenario changed and ever since things never remained the same again in the insurgency war in Borno and beyond. This time Boko Haram the hunter became the hunted. It was a dramatic U-turn from the position of hopelessness to that of hope and a reassertion to the fact that no matter the extent of evil, it would never triumph over good and that when a man is driven to the wall he will fight back. The (youths) started in the formation or tag of “Vigilante Group”, then metamorphosed into Youth Vanguards and finally into Civilian Joint Task Force (Civilian JTF). It started as a child of necessity or an inevitable reaction to an ugly action.

The coming into the volatile scene by the CJTF was indeed a watershed. Its entry broke the myth that the Boko Haram insurgents are not assailable as the civilian youths demystified the militants and proved themselves capable of giving Boko Haram a good tight. It showed abundantly that when a man is driven to the wall, he will fight back with whatever he could lay his hands upon, notwithstanding the strong fist of his adversary. It brought hope to the people that were already being dismayed or helpless at the perceived inability of the security agencies, especially the army, to give the insurgents a good fight.

Before now there had been no love lost between members of the public and those in the security agencies. Between the parties was the cat and dog game emanating from lack or trust among the members of the two groups. While some members of the public accused the military of recklessness in their operations resulting in the death of innocent ones, the military suspected rightly or wrongly that some members of the public were either not cooperating on the allegation that they were members of the sect giving their members (Boko Haram sect) information about the movement of the military or that some other members of the public were just nonchalant.

Cashing in on the public acceptance of the Civilian JTF and its impacts in the fight against insurgency, the state government moved in the speed of a meteor to streamline the function of the body and giving incentives to its members. The government initiated through the military, some basic training for the boys, designating them as vigilante groups assisting the security agencies. While in training members are each paid N10, 000 and after the training, they are given a monthly stipend of N20, 000 each. The state government planned to train under its first phase scheme, 20,000 members. The trained members of the CJTF are expected to be the first port of call for the state quota with regards future recruitment in the security agencies especially, the army. And this proved to be so later when the Senate directed that the Federal government to recruit more soldiers as a result of insurgency. The Upper Chamber of the National Assembly specifically, directed that in the exercise as it affected the North-east, premium or consideration should be given to members of the Civilian JTF.

Thus collaboration between the Civilian JTF and the Military Joint Task Force (MJTF) especially, the soldiers, brought to an end or greatly minimized the suspicion that hitherto existed between the members of the security agencies and the people. Mutual trust and cooperation between the Civilian JTF and the security agencies thus facilitated free flow of information between the two parties. The recognition and support accorded the Civilian JTF by the state government and approval of this body by the Federal Government to join in the fight against insurgency no doubt livened the youths as they came in hundreds and thereafter in thousands, ready to be part of the struggle to liberate the people from the shackles of man’s inhumanity to man. Ever since the entry of Civilian JTF attacks on major cities or urban centres by the insurgents reduced drastically because the militants no longer had anywhere to hide.

Governor Shettima expressed his great joy at the emergence of the CJTF when he presented the 2013 State Budget before the State House of Assembly and described the youths “Our heroes, the gallant and courageous youth volunteers.” On his part the Army Chief, Lt. General Tukur Buratai commended the invaluable services of the CJTF to the military and other security agencies. General Buratai stated that members of the para military outfit act as scouts to the troops in the front, help in the location of land mines and movements of the insurgents as well in other related matters. Indeed members of CJTF are the locals who understand the terrain and the geography of the areas. The organization has come to stay as one of the effective measures to check crime or rebellion and remains as one of the enduring legacies of Kashim Shettima’s administration.

Kashim as Chairman of Northern States Governors Forum (NSGF)

As Chairman of Northern States Governors Forum, (NSGF) Kashim was forthcoming in words and action. The forum this time not only talk but did walked the talk. Kashim took the forum across the Atlantic to Saudi Arabia in search of economic fortunes where it concluded arrangements with Saudi Arabia based Islamic Development Bank (IDB) to fast track the development of northern Nigeria. Shettima led the official delegation in Jeddah. Kashim later told the press that the collaboration with the IDB would fast track the development in the north with emphasis on power, health and agriculture.

In another development this period, the NSGF signed an MOU with General Electric Corporation of the United States to build solar power stations in five northern states. Under the deal, Borno, Kebbi, Nasarawa, Niger and Taraba will each get 100MW solar plant, making 500MW in all. The MOU was signed on behlf of the states by Alhaji Kashim Shettima, the forum chairman.

When some members of the Movement for the Actualization of the Sovereign State of Biafra (MASSOB) issued a directive this period that all the northerners in the East should leave and go home, the Coalitions of Arewa Youths (CAY) responded and gave all Igbos in the North three months’ notice to proceed home. This situation caused tension and heat up the body politic of the nation. Kashim as the NSGF Chairman was the man of the moment who appeased both warring sides to sheathe the sword and peace prevailed.

Similarly, in 2015 when some APC members accused the South East of not contributing anything to President Muhammadu Buhari’s victory, Kashim Shettima came out boldly in defence of the Igbos stating that the very fact the PDP could not muster high votes in the South East compared to 2011 was enough contribution to APC’s victory by the people of the region.

Kashim in addition led a delegation to Eastern part of the country to assure his counterparts that all is well after all. His counterpart governors responded stating that they were in accord with the steps taken by the Northern Governors Forum headed by Kashim Shettima with regard the issue at stake. Thus the prompt and diplomatic maneuver by governor Kashim leadership saved the nation from a possible precipice as peace ultimately reigned.

Governor Kashim as the chairman of the Forum deepened the relations between the Middle Belt of the North and the rest of the region thus lessen the perceived marginalization or suspicion within the groups in the North. During the installation of the new Tor Tiv, this time, the Forum donated among others 100 cows for the ceremony as well graced the occasion. Besides, when the Fulani herdsmen attacked Benue and killed about 70 people at a go, Kashim and his delegation were in Makurdi to condole his counterpart Governor Samuel Loraer Ortom and his people. As a peacemaker, the forum under Governor Shettima tried in its own way to lessen the tension between the military and El-Zazaky group following a violent misunderstanding that erupted between the two groups in Zaria where several lives were lost and valuables destroyed.

It could not be sheer coincidence that Governor Shettima stood in the midst of other governors in 2014 reading the communiqué in Lagos of the proposed All Progressives Congress (APC) made up of the Action Congress of Nigeria, (CAN), All Nigeria Peoples ‘ Party, (ANPP), the All Progressives Grand Alliance, (APGA), and the Congress for Progressive Change, (CPC), at the end of the historic merger meeting of the parties. The coming together of APC is amongst others aimed at wrestling power from the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) at the centre, come 2015. The same Gov. Shettima hosted the inaugural meeting of the governors of the alliance in Maiduguri thereafter.

By this disposition, Shettima’s unequivocal participation in the APC with total commitment and resolute zeal has revealed the true character of the man in the closet.

Conclusion

Kashim, in spite of the daunting challenges, could heave a sigh of relief for a job well done. Shettima made Borno more stable, stronger and viable than he met it. With the execution of thousands of projects and programmes both (tangibles and intangible), Shettima gave hope to the hopeless, through massive employment and introduction of various poverty alleviation programmes. Shettima made agriculture the greatest employer of labour through diversification of its various sectors. Shettima rebuilt broken homes through rehabilitation and compensation especially, to the victims of the security challenges in the state. The burnt educational institutions by the insurgents were rebuilt and in keeping with the governor’s vow to rebuild them as many times as they are destroyed. Shettima assured all public servants in the state, including teachers, that they would be provided with housing facilities and he lived up to this through large scale housing programmes. The assurance is that a reasonable number of them would own houses before retirement. The no love lost between the state government and Christian community this period became a thing of the past-thanks to the initiative of Governor Shettima. The voice of the minorities in the state was not only heard but noted and got response. Shettima strengthened the weak and there is ample hope for a better tomorrow.

What Shettima achieved as a governor is to prove the pessimists wrong that Borno is already a failed state, waiting for the funeral. He gave the lie to the pessimists who postulated that ours is a wasted generation. Today, the people of Borno in particular and Nigeria in general know those who used political power for good or for evil, for the people’s happiness or for oppressing them.

The summary of Kashim’s eight year administration of Borno is about the shepherd in the wilderness striving to lead the flocks to safety. It is about leadership good and responsive. It is about the man who dream dreams and vision focused. It’s about the leader who endeared, rebuild broken places, strengthened the weak and inspired hope, who graced leadership journey “with redemptive responsibilities.” It is about travails and triumph. It is about a leader who uses political power for the good and happiness of the people. It is about success amidst contending anti-democratic and anti-social forces.

  • Victor Izekor is a journalist, public affairs analyst and a Special Assistant to Kashim Shettima on social mobilization

Subscribe to our Newsletter

* indicates required

Intuit Mailchimp