By Ibrahim A Jombali
In every election cycle, political parties chase endorsements, organise rallies, and unveil grand promises. Yet, history has repeatedly shown that elections are seldom won from the lofty balconies of power. They are secured in the villages, the marketplaces, the workshops, and within communities where trust is earned long before campaign posters appear on walls or billboards by the roadsides.
It is against this backdrop that the recent gathering of artisans and youths from the Zuru Emirate assumes significance beyond the optics of political mobilisation. Their decision to publicly reaffirm support for the All Progressives Congress (APC) and inaugurate the “35,000 Youth for Kaura” initiative represents more than another campaign activity. It reflects an evolving conversation about grassroots participation and the enduring influence of community-driven politics.
What stood out was not merely the declaration of support but the organisational depth behind it. The youths disclosed that they had established representatives across every polling unit within the emirate, creating what appears to be an expansive grassroots network designed to engage families, opinion moulders, and community stakeholders. In an era where electoral success increasingly depends on local ownership rather than distant political rhetoric, such an approach suggests an appreciation of the mechanics of democratic mobilisation, and a strong conviction that leadership has affected the led positively.
Their decision to christen the movement “35,000 Youth for Kaura” was equally symbolic. To the organisers, it is an expression of gratitude to Governor Nasir Idris, Kauran Gwandu, whose leadership they believe has positively shaped the fortunes of the Zuru Emirate, particularly through decisions they consider pivotal to the stability and progress of the area. Beyond symbolism, however, the association also seeks to institutionalise youth participation in governance by providing a permanent platform for civic engagement and political organisation.
Perhaps even more instructive is the reason behind the enthusiasm. The youths anchored their support on visible developmental interventions rather than abstract political slogans. They pointed to the reconstruction of the Zuru–Koko Road, the establishment of a Mobile Police Force barracks, and the execution of several rural road projects as evidence of an administration whose policies have translated into measurable improvements in security, transportation and economic activities across the emirate.
The hearts of the youth also sang praises of Governor Masir for the massive engagement of youths in the administration through calculated appointments as commissioners, Advisers, Directors and other influential positions. For them, the government of Kauran Gwandu is the government of the youths.
Whether viewed through the prism of infrastructure or governance, these projects reinforce an enduring political reality: citizens are often persuaded less by promises than by outcomes they can physically experience. Roads that reduce travel time, security infrastructure that restores confidence, and rural connectivity that expands economic opportunities frequently become the strongest campaign messages any government can project.
The young people were also full of praises to their governor for the concerted and deliberate efforts to enhance security and bring peace and stability to the volatile areas in the kebbi south . They sighted the massive support for security agencies through funding, provision of equipment, and moral support as the reason for the peace now prevailing in the area
The response of the Kebbi State Commissioner for Information and Culture reflected this understanding. By describing the initiative as a demonstration of confidence in Governor Idris’ developmental agenda, he acknowledged that government legitimacy is ultimately strengthened when citizens voluntarily assume ownership of its programmes. His assurance of closer collaboration with the association, particularly in the area of economic empowerment, recognises that sustainable political engagement must be accompanied by tangible improvements in livelihoods.
Equally noteworthy was the Commissioner’s announcement of a statewide sensitisation and public enlightenment campaign. In today’s information ecosystem, where misinformation often travels faster than facts, governments carry an increasing responsibility not merely to govern effectively but also to communicate transparently. Public enlightenment has become an indispensable component of governance, particularly where false narratives possess the capacity to undermine public confidence and social cohesion.
His appeal to citizens to verify information through credible and official channels therefore resonates beyond partisan politics. Democracies flourish when public discourse is informed by facts rather than manufactured distortions. An informed citizenry is not simply an electoral asset; it is the bedrock upon which peace, accountability, and sustainable development are built.
Ultimately, the events in Zuru illustrate an important lesson in contemporary politics. Governments may formulate policies, and political parties may articulate visions, but it is organised communities that ultimately breathe life into democratic processes. When artisans, young people, and grassroots actors become active participants rather than passive observers, democracy acquires greater legitimacy, and governance becomes more responsive.
The “35,000 Youth for Kaura” initiative will eventually translate into electoral dividends and already is evident, and that the politics of grassroots organisation remains alive and well in Kebbi State.
The momentum is undeniable. With overwhelming and ever-growing support from grassroots communities across the state, the path to victory is clear for Dr. Nasir Idris Kauran Gwandu and all APC candidates.
With Kauran Gwandu’s vision and stubborn desire to ensure progress and development of all areas in the state through massive infrustrural, economic and social projects which have direct bearing on the lives of the people, the good news will continue until 2031 and beyond.
Ibrahim Abubakar Jombali
Special Adviser on Public Enlightenment and Orientation
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