Shekarau at 70: Ex-Kano Governor Vows to Remain Active in Politics

By Salisu Hamisu Ali

Former Kano State Governor, Senator Malam Ibrahim Shekarau, has declared that he will remain active in politics for the rest of his life, saying his participation in governance is a lifelong commitment to national service.

Shekarau, who clocked 70 years this week, stated this while addressing journalists in Kano on Wednesday as part of activities marking his birthday celebration.

The former governor said his decision to stay in politics was driven by conviction and a sense of responsibility to contribute to credible leadership and national development.

“Politics is part of my life’s calling,” he said. “As long as I live and remain capable, I will continue to contribute to the process of producing credible and trustworthy leaders. There is no time I will check out.”

He emphasized that his political involvement was never about personal ambition or position but about serving the people and strengthening moral values in governance.

“I am not in politics for personal gain. My goal has always been to support leadership built on integrity and justice,” he said.

Reflecting on his journey, the senator expressed gratitude to Almighty Allah for sparing his life through seven decades of service — from his days as a classroom teacher to his roles as governor, minister, and senator.

“Seventy years of life, and my first gratitude is to Almighty Allah who has graciously spared my life through all that I have achieved — from birth to school days, to public service, and leadership at various levels,” he said.

Shekarau described his 70th birthday as a special milestone, adding that every additional year is a divine bonus.

“At 70, I see myself in extra time — like in football, when you go beyond regulation time. Everything beyond now is a divine gift, and I thank Allah for it,” he said.

In an emotional tone, Shekarau called on Nigerians to embrace forgiveness and unity. He said he had forgiven anyone who might have offended him during his years in public life and asked for the same in return.

“We are all human and bound to make mistakes. I have forgiven and forgotten anyone who has offended me, whether I know it or not. I pray Almighty Allah registers my forgiveness,” he said.

Shekarau said he has no regrets about his political career, stressing that everything that happened in his life was part of God’s divine plan.

“Whatever comes my way, I believe it is Allah’s decision. I have never had regrets because regrets come from failing to appreciate His will,” he said.

He urged Nigerian leaders to prioritise poverty alleviation and the welfare of citizens, noting that peace and progress cannot thrive in an atmosphere of hunger.

“If people are hungry, they will not listen to you. Feed them, empower them, and you will have peace,” he said.

The former governor outlined five key principles he said guided his success in public life — good conduct, hard work, perseverance, patience, and dependence on God.

“Good conduct earns respect and opens doors. Hard work brings success, perseverance keeps you moving despite challenges, patience earns reward, and total trust in God gives peace,” he explained.

Shekarau, who served as Kano State governor from 2003 to 2011, later became Minister of Education and currently represents Kano Central Senatorial District in the National Assembly.

He thanked his parents, teachers, colleagues, and supporters for their roles in shaping his career and reaffirmed his commitment to continue serving the country.

“Life is short. Every day beyond 70 is extra time — a gift from God. I will use mine to continue serving humanity,” he said.