Why the APC’s choice of M.A. Abubakar, SAN, offers Bauchi a proven track record over promises

By Shamsuddeen Waziri

The All Progressives Congress, APC, has demonstrated sound judgment in its choice of gubernatorial candidate in Bauchi State. At a critical time when the state requires purposeful leadership, the party’s decision reflects a commitment to progress, development, and effective governance.

The choice of M.A. Abubakar, SAN, as the APC gubernatorial candidate signals renewed hope for the people of Bauchi, with expectations of improved service delivery, stronger institutions, and people-oriented policies. By prioritizing competence, resilience, and vision, the APC has positioned itself to address the pressing challenges facing the state and deliver meaningful change.

At a time when the education sector in Bauchi was in decline and access to clean drinking water had become a serious challenge, the administration of Mohammed Abdullahi Abubakar, M.A., made commendable efforts to address these issues during his tenure as governor from 2015 to 2019. His government worked to improve education, expand access to potable water across the state, and implement various developmental projects.

We have always maintained that M.A. Abubakar is a man of integrity — upright, God-fearing, and genuinely committed to the development of Bauchi State. During his four-year tenure, he initiated numerous developmental projects, some of which are currently being utilized or even credited to the present administration, although many people remain unaware of their true origin.

It is worth recalling that during his time in office, significant infrastructure projects were undertaken. For instance, the road stretching from Misau through Hardawa, Chinade, Bulkachuwa, and Udubo to Gamawa was constructed, along with several key bridges that improved connectivity across the state.

In the education sector, his administration recorded notable progress. Primary and secondary education witnessed revitalization, particularly through the State Universal Basic Education Board, SUBEB, in collaboration with the Sokoto State Government and the Northern Education Initiative, NEI, both of which provided substantial support.

His government also implemented impactful water supply projects that significantly improved access to potable water in Bauchi metropolis and surrounding rural communities. These efforts were supported through partnerships with development organizations working alongside the state government.

Furthermore, key road expansion projects were executed under his leadership, including:

1. The expansion from the Gidan Mai Mobil Filling Station area to Miri

2. The bypass road from the Gidan Mai Mobil Filling Station area to Awala

3. The Awala–Giwo–Airport road corridor

Additionally, it was during his administration that approval was granted for the Awala–Tirwun road project.

Despite ongoing public complaints about the Federal Low-Cost road, it is important to note that although the current administration completed the project, the funding had already been secured and paid under M.A. Abubakar’s government.

It is therefore important for the public to recognize that many of the projects currently being executed are built on the solid foundations laid by his administration. Even some of the funds being utilized today were accumulated during his tenure for the development of Bauchi State, although he did not have the opportunity to complete all projects before leaving office.

As humans, leaders are not immune to mistakes. However, such shortcomings are not always intentional; rather, they may arise from the complex nature of leadership, where it is not always possible to identify and correct every issue. Nevertheless, M.A. Abubakar remains widely regarded as a just, compassionate, and capable leader.

In light of this, I appeal to the people to exercise patience and grant him another opportunity to serve. History provides us with examples such as Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso of Kano State, who was given a second chance and went on to achieve remarkable progress.

Therefore, I urge everyone to support M.A. Abubakar once again — not because other candidates lack merit, but because he possesses the experience, deep understanding, and long-standing commitment to the development of Bauchi State. Above all, his emergence under the APC reflects a path that many believe aligns with the will of God and the aspirations of the people.