The election of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf popularly known as Abba Gida Gida marked a turning point in Kano State’s governance. His rise brought with it a wave of change that quickly reached the grassroots, reshaping local administration in ways both bold and strategic.
Among the most notable transformations has been in Dawakin Tofa Local Government, where businessman-turned-politician Anas Mukhtar Bello, widely known as Dan Maliki, assumed the role of Chairman. A man celebrated for his integrity and sharp business acumen, Dan Maliki has wasted no time in demonstrating a results-driven approach to governance.
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From fiscal reforms to educational breakthroughs, land recovery to youth empowerment, his tenure has been characterized by decisive action, transparency, and community-oriented leadership.
Shaking Up the Revenue System
One of Dan Maliki’s first moves was a deep dive into the Local Government’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR). What he found was troubling monthly revenue of less than ₦2 million, despite Dawakin Tofa housing two economic giants: Africa’s largest grains market and Kwakwaci Mechanic Village, the largest in Northern Nigeria.
Within months, his administration plugged leakages, ended corruption-linked scandals, and raised monthly IGR to nearly ₦50 million: an unprecedented financial turnaround that set a new benchmark for local governance in Kano.
Education as a Priority, Not a Promise
If there is a sector where Dan Maliki’s vision shines brightest, it is education. Viewing it as the backbone of community progress, he established a strong Scholarship Committee led by Hon. Mijinyawa. The committee has since secured fully funded scholarships for over 1,000 students across tertiary institutions, including universities, polytechnics, monotechnics, and health colleges.
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He cleared all unpaid student fees inherited from the previous administration and recently screened more than 100 postgraduate candidates for MSc and PhD schoolarship, a first in the history of Dawakin Tofa.
Land Reforms and Accountability
Determined to restore public trust, Dan Maliki revoked illegally sold government lands and reclaimed grazing reserves unlawfully converted for farming. These measures not only protected government assets but also safeguarded the livelihoods of Fulani herders, ensuring peace between farming and pastoral communities.
Youth Empowerment on Multiple Fronts
Under his watch, youth empowerment has gone beyond rhetoric. From cash support for start-ups to job placements in Federal, State, and Local Government offices, Dan Maliki has positioned young people for economic independence.
His administration facilitated the appointment of over a dozen Dawakin Tofa indigenes at Federal University Dutsin-Ma and distributed motorcycles to support youth in business and transport ventures.
Rewarding Party Loyalty
Dan Maliki’s political instincts are as sharp as his administrative skills. In recent months, he has rewarded dedicated NNPP party members with cars, motorcycles, and cash. Ward leaders received ₦100,000 each, while selected youths were given ₦200,000 ahead of Eid celebrations to purchase rams.
Six notable youth activists also received ₦1 million each in recent development, to enable them embark in self reliance business.
His leadership and administration has spurred mass defections from rival parties, particularly the APC, into the NNPP fold.
Community Projects that Speak for Themselves
Infrastructure development remains another pillar of his leadership. From building and renovating classrooms in primary schools to upgrading health facilities and modernizing the Local Government Secretariat, Dan Maliki’s tenure has been marked by tangible, community-focused projects.
A Trusted Ally of the Governor
Loyalty and cooperation with the State Government have been central to his approach. Dan Maliki’s alignment with Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s vision has ensured smooth coordination between state and local initiatives, amplifying the benefits to Dawakin Tofa residents.
In less than a year, Hon. Anas Mukhtar Bello Dan Maliki has redefined what local government leadership can look like accountable, people-centered, and transformative. For many in Dawakin Tofa, his name is now synonymous with opportunity, reform, and tangible results.
