By Sameen Y. Said (Dr SYS)
In a political atmosphere where the benefits of democracy often serve only a select few, genuine commitment to public service is becoming increasingly rare. Many holders of public office operate with little concern for professionalism or accountability.
But not all officials fit that mold. Comrade Nura Iro Ma’aji, the Kano State Commissioner of Public Procurement, Monitoring and Evaluation, stands out for reasons that go beyond official titles. His work ethic and dedication to the people of Kano tell a different story—one of responsibility, transparency, and service.
From the moment he assumed office, Ma’aji has been visible and active in the field. Rather than staying behind a desk, he makes it a point to visit project sites regularly. His daily routine involves inspecting both new and ongoing projects, not just in the city but across rural communities.
One of his most demanding tasks has been overseeing the inspection of the 5-Kilometer Roads projects in all 44 Local Government Areas of Kano State. These projects were revived and expanded under the leadership of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, and they aim to improve infrastructure at the grassroots level.
Beyond roads, Ma’aji has also been involved in monitoring the renovation and upgrade of healthcare centers. Many primary health facilities are now being transformed into general hospitals, providing a broader range of services to residents in underserved areas.
His approach to project oversight is grounded in clear, measurable goals. Rather than vague promises, Ma’aji relies on specific indicators to track progress. His focus is on ensuring that public projects meet standards, remain within budget, and are delivered on time.
Since his appointment on January 6, 2025, Ma’aji has visited over 50 significant project sites across the state. These inspections aren’t ceremonial; they serve as checkpoints to hold contractors accountable and ensure communities get value for public funds.
Some of these projects have gone on to gain recognition at both state and national levels. But the goal has never been awards—it’s been about delivering real results that people can see and experience in their everyday lives.
What sets Ma’aji apart isn’t just his presence on-site but his background. He comes with training from both local and international institutions in project management, governance, and monitoring and evaluation. This technical grounding is evident in how he approaches his work.
There’s a consistency in his method—a refusal to cut corners or play politics with the public good. Colleagues say he is meticulous, and many residents who have interacted with him on project sites describe him as approachable and responsive.
Importantly, Ma’aji doesn’t see his role as simply carrying out orders. He engages with communities, listens to concerns, and relays those voices back to the executive level. In doing so, he helps bridge the gap between government policies and public expectations.
Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s decision to appoint Ma’aji appears to be grounded in trust and merit. In a system often criticized for favoritism, this choice has proven to be one of strategic importance for ensuring accountability in governance.
The commissioner’s motto—“Let me serve, let me work for the betterment of Kano State”—might sound simple, but it reflects a deep-seated philosophy that puts duty ahead of ambition. It’s a quiet, steady form of leadership that resists showmanship.
In a time when many public officials measure success in media mentions and political alliances, Ma’aji seems to be working from a different playbook. One that values process over publicity, substance over slogans, and people over power.
Sameen Y. Said (Dr SYS) wrote this piece from Kano.
