16 Years After, Rimi’s Pro-People Legacy Still Resonates in Kano
By Umar Idris Shuaibu Kano State on Saturday marked another anniversary of the passing of former governor, Muhammadu Abubakar Rimi, who died on April 4, 2010. Rimi, widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s most influential political figures during the Second Republic, is remembered for his pro-people policies, bold leadership style, and commitment to social justice, which earned him the popular nickname “Limamin Canji” (the Apostle of Change). Born in 1940, Rimi made history as the first democratically elected Governor of Kano State, serving from October 1979 to May 1983 under the platform of the People’s Redemption Party (PRP). During his time in office, he championed mass-oriented reforms aimed at improving the welfare of ordinary citizens. His administration introduced an adult and mass literacy programme that received international recognition from UNESCO in 1983. Read Also: UNICEF Raises Alarm Over Child Poverty as States Push Social Protection Reforms CITAD Distributes School Materials to Nomadic Pupils in Kano, Urges Increased Govt Intervention 2025 in Memoriam: Nigerians and Global Icons Who Left a Lasting Legacy He also made significant contributions to infrastructure and media development, including the establishment of Triumph Publishing Company and City Television, while playing a pioneering role in labour rights by becoming the first Nigerian governor to officially recognise May 1 as Workers’ Day. Rimi’s government abolished controversial taxes such as haraji (personal tax) and jangali (cattle tax), policies that further endeared him to the masses. Beyond Kano politics, he served as Nigeria’s Minister of Communications between 1993 to 1995 and was also a founding member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) His personal life was marked by tragedy, including the murder of his wife, Hajiya Sa’adatu Rimi, in 2006. He later died at the age of 70 after suffering a stroke. Years after his death, Rimi’s legacy continues to resonate in Kano and beyond, with many recalling his fearless approach to governance and dedication to the common man. In recognition of his contributions, the Kano State Government in 2025 approved the construction of an auditorium in his honour at the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) headquarters. As tributes pour in, many Nigerians continue to reflect on his enduring impact, asking what memories his name evokes and how his ideals can shape contemporary leadership.



















