With heart of gratitude, reflecting on my time with Governor Bindow, I am reminded of the profound impact he had on Adamawa State. His leadership was not merely about wielding power; it was about cultivating relationships grounded in trust and respect. He listened more than he spoke, valuing the input of those around him and making decisions that echoed the collective aspirations of our people.
A man whose life and leadership have left an indelible mark on the hearts of the people of Adamawa State, Senator Muhammadu Umaru Jibrilla Bindow, our former governor, was not just a leader; he was a mentor, a friend, and an unwavering advocate for the development and progress of our state.
As I reflect on my relationship with Governor Bindow, I am reminded of the profound respect and loyalty he commanded—not through his title, but through his actions and character. Respect and loyalty are not mere words; they are the foundation of any meaningful relationship. Senator Bindow earned both from me and many others through his humility, dedication, and vision for our beloved state.
I remember the day he visited my home on a quiet Sunday afternoon. After a moment of worship and reflection, here was the governor, a man of immense stature, sitting humbly in my living room, discussing the future of Adamawa State with sincerity and passion. It was a reminder that, despite the weight of his responsibilities, he remained grounded and accessible—a true servant leader.
In 2015, as the All Progressives Congress (APC) party launched its campaign, it was clear that Senator Bindow was driven by a vision to transform Adamawa into a model state—a beacon of hope amidst the darkness of economic challenges exacerbated by the Boko Haram insurgency.
His promises were not empty; they were a commitment to the people, and he delivered on them with remarkable achievements. Under his administration, we witnessed significant strides in infrastructure development: roads were constructed, drainage systems were improved, and street lights illuminated our towns. But beyond these visible achievements, Governor Bindow’s administration prioritized education and healthcare—two pillars essential for the growth of any society. He understood the importance of education, investing in the renovation of schools and ensuring that qualified teachers were employed to nurture the next generation, reflecting his commitment to the sector.
Similarly, the renovation of major hospitals, including those in Mubi, Ganye, Numan, and Jimeta, demonstrated his dedication to the health and well-being of every citizen in the state. Governor Bindow’s impact extended to empowering women and youth through skill acquisition programs, fostering entrepreneurship, and promoting economic independence.
His vision was not just to build structures but to uplift lives, creating a ripple effect that improved the standard of living for countless individuals. Moreover, his administration’s commitment to the rule of law and transparency in governance forged a path for lasting change. By adhering strictly to due process and eliminating corruption, he ensured that resources were utilized effectively, achieving remarkable results even with limited funds. This was the hallmark of his leadership—doing more with less, all for the common good.
Senator Bindow’s legacy is not only etched in the physical transformations witnessed across Adamawa State but also in the intangible values of integrity, accountability, and service that he instilled in those around him. His dedication to the people of Adamawa State has left a lasting impact, and his commitment to good governance has set a high standard for future leaders to follow.
The challenges he faced were formidable, yet he navigated them with a calm resolve that inspired confidence. The Boko Haram insurgency cast a long shadow over Adamawa, but rather than retreating in fear, he stepped forward with a vision for peace and prosperity. He actively engaged with security agencies, ensuring that the safety of his constituents remained a top priority while promoting initiatives that fostered community resilience.
Even today, as he maintains a low profile, the legacy of his service remains a beacon of hope for many. His humility is a testament to his character—a reminder that true leadership is marked by selflessness and a commitment to the greater good. I often find myself wishing for his return to public service, believing that the people of Adamawa would wholeheartedly embrace his leadership once more.
In every conversation I had with him, I witnessed his deep-seated belief in the potential of our state. He was not only a governor but a visionary who understood that development is a holistic endeavor, encompassing education, health, infrastructure, and economic empowerment. His approach was comprehensive, ensuring that no sector was left behind.
As I pen this reflection, I feel a sense of gratitude for having had the opportunity to work alongside such a remarkable leader. Senator Bindow’s influence on my life and career is immeasurable, and I carry the lessons learned during our time together into every endeavor I undertake. In conclusion, Senator Muhammadu Umaru Jibrilla Bindow’s tenure as Governor of Adamawa State was characterized by a dedication to service, an unwavering commitment to the welfare of his constituents.
He had a successful four years tenure which he left in peace, paving way to the current administration of Rt Hon Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri. It’s undoubtedly to say that the development continuation of the current administration it’s because of the watershed achievements of the previous governments, each administrations had in a way significantly added coloured for the current administration build on.
As Governor Fintiri is being celebrated around, becoming the busy bee icing the state with honey and sugar of development. It’s my honest prayers that we found another good Man to carry on in the legacies he created. It’s a huge and harculean task anyway, but it’s certainly a fact that the next Governor of Adamawa State must be someone who is well able, ready and capable to step on the shoes of the present administration.
I employ all to go in a search of that Man, or woman, whoever the person may be to have the lion heart and continue on the building blocks of Adamawa State holistic development.
By Tom Garba,
A journalist and political analyst
Wrote this from Jimeta-Yola Adamawa State
