Abdussamad Dasuki: A Legacy of Impact and Empowerment
By Nafiu Muhammad Lema
Today, I have a great privilege to pay tribute to the Hon.AbdussamadDasuki, theSanturakin of Sokoto, and dedicated representative of Tambuwal/Kebbe Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives as he marks his 46th birthday. His impact has been transformative and people-oriented as a politician and elected political office holder. From education to empowerment, the Tambuwal/Kebbe Federal Constituencyrepresentative is leaving an indelible mark in the hearts of his constituents. In this year’s tribute, I will focus on the educational progress he has achieved within a single year for the good people of Kebbe and Tambuwal local governments, and highlights a few of his contributions in the National Assembly.
First, Dasuki’sis wholeheartedly committed to bridging educational gap. Recognizing that education is the cornerstone of meaningful progress and development, HonorableDasuki has been proactive in addressing pressing educational matters in his constituency. With unwavering commitment, he paid the 450 UTME (JAMB) forms of prospectivehigher education students across Kebbe and Tambuwal local governments, giving opportunities to young boys and girls in his constituency to have a chance to get university education. The ripple effect of this initiative will be felt for generations to come.
Dasuki’s investment in education inTambuwal and Kebbe Local Governments has put smiles on the faces of the people. At ShehuShagari University of Education, he announced the payment of N15,000 Confirmation of Acceptance fees for 150 newly admitted students from his constituency, thereby lifting a huge financial burden on the shoulders of their parents and guardians.
Recently, at Sokoto State University, the DogondajiDaji Association received N15,000 scholarship disbursement to 43 students. These young scholars will carry on the torch of excellence, knowing that someone believes in their dreams.
That’s not all. SanturakinSokoto doesn’t merely celebrate milestones and excellence; he follows them up with gestures that inspires recipient to strive for greater heights. His commitment to disbursing N100,000 to each of the 207 indigenous university students whose CGPA exceeds 3.50 speaks volumes. These students are not mere statistics; they are the promise of a greaterKebbe and Tambuwal. Their future achievements will undoubtedly honor his legacy and inspire others to reach for the stars.
Turning our attention to empowering women in his constituency, Hon. Dasuki has provided them with opportunity for self-reliance through education. In Tambuwal, he ensured that the Women Centre for Continuing Education is accredited by the National Examinations Council (NECO). This achievement goes beyond bureaucratic paperwork; it’s a beacon of hope for women seeking to enhance their skills, pursue higher education, and contribute meaningfully to society. Dasuki’s tireless advocacy made this accreditation possible, empowering countless women to break barriers and redefine their destinies.
His unwavering commitment to public service has made indelible mark in the hearts of Nigerians. James Hadley Chase book: Goldfish Have No Hiding Place, aptly describes Hon. Dasuki’sexcellent contributions to political development, which are felt, not just in his constituency but also the House of Representatives. His legislative initiatives are impactful,as seen in the bills and motions he sponsored and co-sponsored. Among the bills are the Armed Forces Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB 167) and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB 169). Others are bills seeking a transition from Presidential System of Government to parliamentary system, Bill to establish the Northwest Development Commission, and the National Agency for Artisanal Refining (Establishment), Bill 2023.
His motions also reflect a keen awareness of pressing issues. Notable among them are: Waiving Airport Tollgate and Parking Fees for Military Personnel (May — 2024), Revisiting and Adopting Reports on Security (November — 2023), and Reviewing Concession Agreements by MDAs (January — 2024). Other motions include convening high-level security stakeholder meetings, ensuring fair admission practices at the Nigerian Defence Academy, and addressing bandit attacks in border communities.
Dasukico-sponsored motions of various national issues, including: Halting Social Media Handles as Identification by Banks (July — 2023), Implementing Police Service Commission Recommendations (February — 2024), Crafting a Clear Foreign Policy (November — 2023), and Ensuring a Living Wage for Workers (February — 2024).
As we celebrate his birthday today, we honor his legacy of impact and empowerment. His commitment to education, empowerment, and public service has left a lasting impression in the hearts of his constituents and Nigerians. May Hon. Dasuki’s political journey continue to inspire generations to come.
*Nafiu Muhammad Lema wrote from Sokoto State, and can be reached at nafson13@gmail.com
