By: Joy Musa
The Birshi Ward PDP Youth Awareness Forum, under the leadership of Micah Zakkah, has expressed its appreciation for Comr. Nafiu Adamu Yelwa’s generous donation of one million Naira during the ongoing month of Ramadan. The forum commended the young philanthropist for his kindness and dedication to the well-being of the people in Birshi Ward, irrespective of religious affiliation.
This remarkable gesture, which saw the funds distributed among residents of Birshi Ward, has been hailed as a testament to Comr. Nafiu’s character. The forum emphasized that it was not merely the monetary value of the donation that had captured public attention but, more importantly, the selflessness and commitment to service that Nafiu demonstrated. His actions have set an example for others, particularly in a time when true compassion and giving are more critical than ever.
Micah Zakkah, leader of the Birshi Ward PDP Youth Awareness Forum, noted that while many political appointees and elected officials had overlooked the welfare of the people in the area, Comr. Nafiu Adamu Yelwa—a private citizen without a formal political appointment—had taken it upon himself to make a positive difference. The forum highlighted that this philanthropic gesture stands in stark contrast to the performance of certain individuals who have held political positions in the area since 1999, yet failed to address the needs of the community.
Birshi Ward: A Legacy of Unfulfilled Promises
Birshi Ward, one of the largest and most populous wards in Bauchi State, has long been a stronghold of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). However, despite its political significance and the continuous support for the party since the return to democracy in 1999, the ward has experienced a series of disappointments in terms of governance and development from those entrusted with elective or appointed position.
The forum lamented that despite having elected and appointed leaders in the ward, many of whom have held positions for years, the dividends of democracy to the people of Birshi Ward have yet to materialize. It has been a decade and a half since these officials assumed office, but the community continues to struggle with ineffective representation and poor welfare by them.
The Youth Awareness Forum pointed out that while some individuals with appointments continue to hold Birshi Ward “to ransom” with their power, they have not demonstrated the same level of commitment to the welfare of the community as Comr. Nafiu has. The forum’s praise for Nafiu’s donation serves as a critique of those in positions of power who have failed to deliver any tangible support.
PDP Youth Forum’s Support for Governor Bala Mohammed
The Birshi Ward PDP Youth Awareness Forum also expressed their unwavering support for Governor Bala Mohammed’s administration, citing the positive impact his governance has had on the people of the ward, particularly in Birshi area. The forum noted that Governor Mohammed has delivered on key promises in terms of infrastructure, social services, and economic empowerment, bringing much-needed development to Birshi Ward.
However, the forum called on the governor to pay more attention to the inclusion of young people from Birshi Ward in his administration. The youth emphasized that while the governor’s leadership is widely appreciated, there is a need for more representation of Birshi Ward’s young population in the decision-making processes within the state government. This move, the forum believes, would help to complement the efforts of the governor and fill the gaps left by others who have not fulfilled their roles.
The forum urged Governor Bala Mohammed to consider appointing more youths from Birshi Ward to government positions, stressing that the younger generation is eager to contribute positively to the progress of the community and the state at large. They also pointed out that having youth in positions of power would foster more inclusive governance and ensure that the community’s needs are better addressed as he always advocate.
Call for Change in Leadership
In their statement, the Birshi Ward PDP Youth Awareness Forum also made a direct call to Governor Bala Mohammed to reconsider the roles of certain individuals who have held positions of authority in Birshi Ward for an extended period but have not demonstrated the necessary commitment to the people.
The forum expressed concern over a group of individuals who, according to their assessment, prioritize their personal welfare over the welfare of the larger community. These individuals, the forum argued, have not contributed meaningfully to the success of the governor’s administration in Birshi Ward and have instead become obstacles to progress.
While the forum acknowledged that the governor is well aware of those who have failed to compliment his support initiatives and advance his goals, they urged him to take decisive action. They emphasized that if the governor does not take steps to address the situation, there is a risk that the loyal supporters of his administration may become disillusioned and lose faith in the political leadership of those people and will not be answerable to such person.
The call was clear: the time had come for Governor Bala Mohammed to take action to ensure that those who genuinely care about the progress of Birshi Ward and the state are given the opportunity to take on leadership roles. The forum believes that only by empowering the right individuals and excluding those who have not contributed to the cause can the state and the ward truly achieve the development they deserve.
A Call to Unity Among Youths in Birshi Ward
Finally, the forum made an urgent appeal to the youths of Birshi Ward to unite in their efforts to build a better future for the community. They called for collective action ahead of the 2027 general elections, stressing that only through collaboration and solidarity can the young people of the ward ensure that their voices are heard and that their needs are met.
In their statement, the forum urged the youth to come together and support candidates who are truly committed to the development of Birshi Ward and Bauchi State as a whole. They emphasized the importance of a united front to bring about the change they want to see in their community.
As the 2027 elections approach, the Birshi Ward PDP Youth Awareness Forum has made it clear that they will not stand idly by while others neglect their responsibilities. They believe that with the right leadership and a strong sense of unity, the youths of Birshi Ward can help reshape the political landscape and bring much-needed change to their community.
However, Birshi Ward PDP Youth Awareness Forum’s recognition of Comr. Nafiu Adamu Yelwa’s generous Ramadan donation serves as a reminder of the power of individual action and philanthropy in effecting positive change. While the forum continues to support Governor Bala Mohammed’s administration, they have made it clear that the time has come for more active youth participation in leadership and governance.
As the 2027 elections draw near, the forum is calling for unity, change, and a renewed commitment to the welfare of the people of Birshi Ward.
