Today marks fifteen years since the passing of Alhaji Muhammadu Abubakar Rimi, one of the most admired and development-focused politicians in the history of Kano State. His memory lives on in the hearts of the people he served—with courage, honesty, and a genuine commitment to making lives better. Rimi was a man of great character and presence. His life continues to inspire many, and the impact of his work in governance and public service is still felt across Nigeria.
Born in Rimi Village in Sumaila Local Government Area of Kano State, Abubakar Rimi came from modest beginnings and rose to become one of the most respected leaders of his time. He was deeply connected to his roots, yet open to the world, shaped by his education at the University of London, where he excelled academically. His command of both English and Hausa made him a powerful speaker, admired for his clarity and confidence. He had a strong grasp of history and current affairs, which made him stand out intellectually among his peers. His bold ideas were matched by his striking appearance and personal style. “Rimi style” became a known trend in Kano, blending elegance with simplicity, and his signature slip-on shoes became popular among the youth and the elite alike.
When he became Governor of Kano State in October 1979, Rimi came in with a clear and ambitious plan to change the face of the state. He took quick steps to launch wide-reaching programs in education, health, and agriculture. He led literacy campaigns that brought Kano international attention and recognition from UNESCO. Under his leadership, scholarships were offered to students to study abroad—including future leaders like Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso. In the health sector, he improved hospitals and access to care, while in agriculture, he introduced policies that made life easier for farmers. He made sure that the government worked for ordinary people by reducing taxes for the poor and rolling out programs that directly improved their day-to-day lives.
Rimi was known for his courage and honesty. He belonged to a generation of leaders who believed that power was a responsibility, not a privilege. Unlike many of today’s politicians, whose focus often turns to personal gain, Rimi put the people first. He led with honesty and openness, setting a standard that many still remember with admiration. When the story of good leadership in Kano is told, only a few names—like that of the late Alhaji Audu Bako—are mentioned alongside Rimi’s. He stood out for what he did, but also for the kind of person he was—thoughtful, intelligent, and deeply compassionate.
Though his time as governor ended in May 1983, Rimi remained an influential voice in Nigerian politics. He continued to speak on issues of governance, fairness, and development. His death, fifteen years ago, shocked the nation. The massive turnout at his funeral—people from different backgrounds and beliefs—showed how deeply he was respected and loved. Kano State, and indeed the whole country, still feels his absence, even as people continue to celebrate the positive changes he brought during his lifetime.
Alhaji Muhammadu Abubakar Rimi was not just a politician. He represented a different way of doing things—focused on people, driven by ideas, and built on service. As we remember him today, we reflect on the values he stood for: vision, courage, and sincere dedication to others. Those values continue to speak to new generations and keep his name alive in the story of Kano and Nigeria.
Garba Ubale Kankarofi wrote this piece from Kano
