By Umar Dankano, Yola.
A Former Commissioner of local government and Chieftaincy Affairs in Adamawa state, Dr.Salihu Bakari Girei has promised to exploit the untapped natural endowment available in the state if given the mandate as elected Governor in the state.
Dr.Girei made the promise while declaring his intention to contest for the governorship bid at a press conference in Yola Friday stressing that Adamawa being an agrarian state with many opportunities which if harnessed well would change the fortunes of the state.
Girei said if elected as Governor, his administration would prioritize farming as a formidable strategy to empower the electorate especially rural farmers at the grassroot by providing mechanized ways of farming and provision of fertilizer at the right time.
He also proposed the establishment of community-based mechanisation centres where farmers can access tractors, harvesters, and other equipment at affordable rates. He said this model, which is used in advanced agricultural economies, would boost productivity and reduce the burden on smallholder farmers
He stated that his blueprint will also focus on education reform, agricultural transformation, youth empowerment, and rural development as well as introduction of innovative policies that would reposition Adamawa for sustainable growth.
Bakari, who served in various capacities including as a classroom teacher, lecturer, policy adviser, and commissioner for local government, highlighted his extensive background in governance and education.
While commenting on his achievements in the education sector, he disclosed that over 15,000 teachers were trained within a four-year period, alongside the establishment of new graduate schools aimed at strengthening the capacity of the education system.
“Our education system has many challenges, but it also presents opportunities for transformation. We were able to expand infrastructure, improve teacher welfare, and create a more inclusive learning environment. These experiences have prepared me for the bigger task ahead,” he said.
“We are going to completely transform our secondary schools and fortify our higher education system. Education remains the foundation of development, and we must invest in it at all levels,” he added.
The aspirant also outlined plans to focus on rural development, particularly in addressing healthcare challenges and improving living conditions in underserved communities stressing the need to tackle youth unemployment through targeted programs designed to engage and empower young people.
According to him, women empowerment would form a central pillar of his administration, noting that addressing poverty among women would have a multiplier effect on families and communities. He pledged to implement policies that would enhance economic opportunities for women and improve their overall wellbeing.
While acknowledging ongoing efforts by the current administration, Bakari said there is a need to consolidate existing achievements and build on them with fresh ideas and stronger implementation strategies.
“Adamawa has great potential,” he said. “What we need is leadership that understands the problems and has the capacity to deliver solutions. I believe I am prepared for that responsibility.”Girei emphasized.
Earlier Bakari Girei visited the APC state Secretariat where he intimated the state executives of his interest to vie for the governorship seat come 2027 elections.
Speaking at the occasion, chairman of the party,Hamza Bello Madagali expressed gratitude with the courtesy call urging Bakari to follow the party’s constitutional guidelines in pursuing his ambition.
Madagali assured that a labelled playing ground would be accorded to all aspirants calling for respect and dignity in their campaigns.
He assured the people of the state that his campaign would be issue-based and focused on delivering practical solutions.