The Quintessential Leadership Qualities Of His Execellency Bello Muhammed Matawalle

By Aminu Abdullahi Gusau

This treatise explores the leadership qualities that distinguish His Excellency (Dr.) Bello Matawalle, MON, FSESN, FNATE, (Shattiman Sokoto, Barden Hausa). Looking at a comprehensive analysis of his actions, decisions, and governance approach during his four years as Governor of Zamfara state, we can easily highlight the quintessential traits that made him an exemplary leader in the north and Nigeria as a whole. His leadership adroitness cuts across his commitment to security and infrastructure development, to his emphasis on unity, peace, progress, inclusivity, and transparency. In fact, Matawalle's leadership stands as a model for effective governance in Nigeria and beyond that needs to be adopted.

Matawalle assumed office as Governor of Zamfara state in 2019, where he inherited a state that had been plagued by insecurity, economic challenges, and developmental qualms. Through his time in office, he did not only address these issues, but also brought about positive changes and progress in several other sectors in the state. One of the fundamental leadership qualities of His Excellency (Dr.) Bello Matawalle was his clear vision and purpose for Zamfara state and its people. He has demonstrated and articulated a comprehensive development agenda that uplifted the lives of the citizens in the state and steered the state toward peace and progress. Matawalle’s vision has provided a roadmap for his administration and guided the decisions and actions of his government.

Within his first 100 days in office as governor of our dear state, Matawalle demonstrated a clear commitment to security by placing a premium time on the prioritization of tackling the pervasive security challenges facing Zamfara. He initiated various strategies, including dialogue and amnesty programmes in a bid to address the underlying immediate and remote causes of insecurity, which had been fuelled by banditry and communal clashes. His hands-on approach and willingness to work with security agencies earned him credibility and respect among the people.

Former Zamfara State Goveronor , Bello Muhammed Matawalle

Matawalle’s idea of inclusivity and unity is a hallmark of his leadership style. He was wholeheartedly committed to inclusivity and unity. He firmly believed in the strength of diversity and actively sought to bring together various political, ethnic, and religious groups in the state for the development of Zamfara. This approach fostered peace and harmony, allowing for greater cooperation and development in the state.

Matawalle’s transparency in governance had helped him to maintain a high level of accountability in public affairs. He ensured that public resources were used judiciously and implemented measures to curb corruption in government. By setting an example of integrity, he inspired public trust and confidence in his administration.

Matawalle has a vast understanding and knowledge of the importance of economic development - economic stability for sustainable development. He, therefore, focused on revitalizing the state's economy by signing into law and implementing policies that encouraged investments and economic diversification, which created job opportunities and reduced poverty rates in the state.

Infrastructural development was not left out, where Matawalle recognized that adequate infrastructure is the backbone of development in any society. Hence, he invested significantly in building and upgrading critical infrastructure, including roads, healthcare facilities, hotels, and educational institutions, which improved the quality of life for the people and generated a lot of revenue for the state.

Matawalle has total commitment toward effective communication and engagement with all strata of people working around him. The adept communicator, Matawalle engaged with the citizens regularly, listening to their concerns and feedback. His approachable demeanour and behaviour fostered a strong bond between the government and the governed, enabling effective governance and problem-solving strategies especially during crisis management and disaster response. To tackle several natural disasters and security crises during his tenure,  Matawalle demonstrated exceptional crisis management skills, ensuring that aid through the Ministry of Humanitarian and Disaster Management reached affected communities promptly and efficiently, earning him praises for his swift and compassionate response.

Matawalle's leadership left a legacy with a  lasting impact on Zamfara state worth recalling. His focus on security, economic development, inclusivity, and transparency laid the foundation for sustained progress, which he intended to vigorously pursue further during his second tenure, which was truncated on the 18th March 2023 (during the Governorship election) by sabotage, perceived electoral irregularities, and smear campaigns of political vendetta. Nevertheless, his legacy continues to inspire future leaders in Nigeria and serves as a model for effective governance.

Therefore, Matawalle's commitment to security, economic development, transparency, and inclusivity made him an exemplary leader, leaving a positive and lasting impact on the people of the state. As we reflect on his governance, his quintessential leadership qualities stand as an inspiration for leaders across the nation, emphasizing the potential for positive change and progress through effective and visionary leadership. Our prayers are with you Shattiman Daular Usmaniyya, Barden Hausa, and our APC political colossus who is always ahead of his enemies.

Copied from Lawal Umar Maradun fnipr, arpa.