Lessons from Governor Radda of Katsina*
A leader should be a model in conduct and personal interaction. One such important trait a leader should possess is humility. Humility in leadership is crucial for creating a positive and effective team environment. It allows leaders to look beyond their own egos, tap into the collective wisdom of their teams, and make decisions that serve the best interests of the state as a whole. Humility also makes leaders more approachable and likable, helping to build trust and buy-in from those they lead.
To underscore the significance of humility, Allah instructed His Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) to embody humility, tenderness, and compassion toward the believers. Allah says:
“And be kind and humble to the believers who follow you.” (Surah Ash-Shu‘araa: 215)
He also says:
“And lower your wings for the believers (be courteous to fellow believers).” (Surah Al-Hijr: 88)
The Prophet Muhammad (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) was truly humble despite his prophethood, exalted office, high status, and vast knowledge. When he sat among his companions, he was indistinguishable from them. A visitor would often have to ask, “Which of you is Muhammad?” He never looked down on his companions, nor was he conceited.
This excellent trait of humility is something I witnessed firsthand in Governor Radda of Katsina State. The encounter took place at An-Nuur Masjid in Wuse 2, Abuja, on the first and second days of Ramadan tafseer 2025.
We had observed the Asr prayer. I was seated in the last row. A man who had prayed in the second-to-last row joined the last row and sat beside me. He busied himself with reciting from a Qur’an placed on a small table in front of him, while I engaged in my evening adhkār.
After a while, a few people approached to greet him and addressed him as “Your Excellency.” My curiosity was piqued—who was this dignified personality sitting quietly beside me all this while? Lo and behold, he was the Executive Governor of Katsina State.
A humble personality to the core—he did not ask me to vacate my spot. Even more telling, none of his security aides asked me to stand up or move away.
I was marvelled. How could such a high-ranking official attend a tafsīr session in such a modest way? Many of our VIPs consider such gatherings as meant for the common folk. But not only did he attend, he entered through the back door and sat with an ordinary person like myself.
He could easily have entered through the front, as people of his calibre often do, and taken a seat in the front rows. Coincidentally, on Sunday—the second day of Ramadan—I once again sat beside the Governor, just as I had the day before.
No wonder Governor Radda assumed leadership with a resounding victory, securing support across 33 out of the 34 Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Katsina State. Since taking office, he has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to transforming the state through visionary leadership, strategic policies, and innovative development programmes.
Katsina is experiencing unprecedented progress under his stewardship. His vision for a prosperous, secure, and economically vibrant state continues to gain recognition across Nigeria.
Other leaders would do well to emulate this exemplary humility. May Allah continue to be your guide and protector, grant you long life and good health.
After your rightfully earned eight years as Governor of Katsina, Nigeria will surely need a leader like you to take on the mantle of the Presidency. This is something very easy for Allah to make possible.
Abdulwaheed Bello wrote from Wuye, Abuja, and can be reached at belloabdulwaheed@gmail.com