BY JULIET EKWENUGO
Jigawa
The Jigawa State APC Polling Units Agents Forum has paid glowing tribute to the outgoing Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, describing his tenure as a model of disciplined leadership and unwavering commitment to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
In a statement issued by its Chairman, Hon. Abubakar Gumel, the forum said Badaru’s stewardship at the national and state levels had strengthened the party’s political structure and deepened grassroots mobilisation across Jigawa. The group noted that his contributions would continue to shape the APC long after his exit from office.
The forum recalled Badaru’s role as Regional Coordinating Chairman (North) of the 2023 APC Presidential Campaign Council, where he reportedly provided strategic direction that boosted the party’s mobilisation efforts in Northern Nigeria. According to the Forum, his influence and planning significantly contributed to the victory of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2023 presidential election.
It added that under Badaru’s leadership, the APC in Jigawa State enjoyed an era of remarkable stability, with polling unit agents, ward structures and community-based mobilisers remaining active and united. This stability, it said, reinforced the party’s dominance in the state.
The Forum further highlighted the former minister’s personal qualities, noting his humility, accessibility and fatherly disposition towards party members. These traits, it said, endeared him to stakeholders at all levels and helped preserve cohesion within the APC.
Beyond his political engagements, Badaru was praised for investing in human capital development, empowerment programmes and initiatives targeted at youth and women. According to the Forum, these interventions have had a lasting impact on communities across the state.
“As foot soldiers of the party, we acknowledge His Excellency’s selfless service and sacrifices,” the statement said. “His loyalty to the APC and to Mr President remains a shining example of political discipline and commitment.”
The group used the opportunity to reaffirm its loyalty to the former minister, pledging to support his political direction and uphold the structures he established across Jigawa and the wider northern region. It said the political network he built had become an essential pillar of the party’s grassroots strength.
The Forum also prayed for Allah’s continued guidance, protection and good health for the former minister as he rounds off his tenure. It expressed confidence that Badaru would record greater achievements in his future engagements, both within and outside government.
While reaffirming their dedication to the APC, the Forum concluded by assuring that the party’s grassroots machinery in Jigawa remained solid, motivated and ready to advance the legacy of service associated with Badaru.
