In the dynamic world of Nigerian politics, where loyalty, structure, and grassroots engagement often determine success, few individuals stand out with as much passion, influence, and credibility as Hajiya Ramat Ibrahim. A woman of substance and high integrity, she is not only a respected political figure but also a successful hotelier, estate developer, and philanthropist whose impact cuts across multiple sectors.
As the North Central Director of Contacts and Mobilization for the City Boy Movement, Hajiya Ramat Ibrahim has built a reputation for excellence, discipline, and people-centered leadership. With a strong base of loyal supporters and admirers, she commands respect and affection from those who encounter her work. Her ability to connect deeply with communities has earned her a devoted following, making her a powerful force in grassroots mobilization. Loved by many for her humility, generosity, and strength of character, she continues to inspire confidence and hope wherever she goes.
In this exclusive interview, Hajiya Ramat Ibrahim opens up about her journey, her unwavering admiration for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and her vision for the future of the City Boy Movement.
Hajiya Ramat Ibrahim, thank you for speaking with us. Can you tell us about your journey into politics and what inspired your role in the City Boy Movement?
Thank you very much. My journey into politics has always been driven by a deep desire to serve and to be part of something that brings real change to the lives of ordinary Nigerians. I come from a background where community engagement and leadership are highly valued. Over the years, I have been involved in grassroots mobilization, especially among women and youth in the North Central region.
Joining the City Boy Movement was a natural progression for me. The movement represents a vision I strongly believe in—a Nigeria that works for everyone. When I saw the structure, the passion, and the commitment of the leadership, I knew this was where I belonged.
As the North Central Director of Contacts and Mobilization, what exactly does your role entail?
Hajiya Ramat Ibrahim: My role is both strategic and people-centered. I am responsible for building and maintaining strong networks across the North Central region. This includes engaging with community leaders, youth groups, women associations, and political stakeholders.
Mobilization is not just about numbers; it’s about connection. It’s about understanding the needs of the people, listening to their concerns, and aligning them with the vision of the movement. I coordinate outreach programs, organize meetings, and ensure that our message resonates at the grassroots level.
The City Boy Movement has gained significant traction. What do you think is responsible for its growing popularity?
The growth of the City Boy Movement is not accidental. It is a result of consistency, clear messaging, and genuine engagement with the people. Nigerians are very perceptive—they know when a movement is authentic.
What sets us apart is our focus on inclusivity and grassroots participation. We are not just speaking to the people; we are working with them. Our structure allows for feedback, and we ensure that voices from even the smallest communities are heard.
You are widely known for your strong admiration for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Can you share what inspires this deep passion?
(Smiles) My admiration for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is rooted in his track record and his leadership style. He is a man who has consistently demonstrated courage, resilience, and vision.
I admire his ability to build people. If you look at his political journey, you will see countless individuals who have grown under his mentorship. He believes in empowering others, and that is something I deeply respect.
Beyond that, his commitment to national development is clear. He understands the complexities of Nigeria and has the experience to navigate them. My passion comes from a place of belief—I truly believe in his vision for this country.
Some critics argue that political movements often focus more on personalities than policies. How does the City Boy Movement respond to this?
That is a valid concern, but I can confidently say that the City Boy Movement is grounded in both leadership and policy. While we support a leader we believe in, we also emphasize the policies and programs that will drive national development.
We engage in conversations about economic growth, youth empowerment, infrastructure, and security. Our mobilization efforts include educating people about these issues and how they impact their daily lives.
What has been your most challenging experience in this role?
One of the biggest challenges is overcoming misinformation and skepticism. In today’s digital age, people are exposed to a lot of conflicting information, and it can sometimes create doubt.
Another challenge is reaching remote communities where access can be difficult. But we don’t see these as obstacles; we see them as opportunities to do more. We are constantly innovating and finding new ways to connect with people.
And what would you say has been your most rewarding moment so far?
The most rewarding moments are when you see the impact of your work firsthand. When you meet people who feel heard, who feel included, and who are excited to be part of the movement—that is priceless.
I remember visiting a rural community where people initially felt disconnected from the political process. After engaging with them and addressing their concerns, their enthusiasm was incredible. That kind of transformation is what keeps me going.
How are women and youth being integrated into the City Boy Movement?
Women and youth are at the heart of our movement. We recognize their importance, not just as supporters, but as leaders.
We have created platforms for women to take on leadership roles and contribute meaningfully. For the youth, we focus on empowerment, mentorship, and capacity building. We want them to see themselves as stakeholders in the future of this country.
What strategies are you using to strengthen grassroots mobilization in the North Central region?
Our strategy is multi-layered. First, we focus on building strong local structures. This means having representatives in communities who understand the local dynamics.
Second, we prioritize communication. We use both traditional and digital channels to reach people. Town hall meetings, community visits, and social media all play a role.
Finally, we emphasize trust. People need to trust the movement before they can support it. We build that trust through consistency and transparency.
Looking ahead, what is your vision for the City Boy Movement?
My vision is for the City Boy Movement to become a model for political engagement in Nigeria. I want to see a movement that is not just active during election cycles, but consistently working to improve lives.
We aim to expand our reach, strengthen our structures, and continue to engage meaningfully with Nigerians across all regions.
On a personal level, what keeps you motivated despite the demands of your role?
What keeps me motivated is my belief in the cause and my love for this country. I am passionate about making a difference, no matter how small.
Also, the support from my team and the people we interact with daily gives me strength. When you see others who share your vision, it becomes easier to keep going.
Finally, what message would you like to send to Nigerians, especially supporters of the City Boy Movement?
My message is simple: stay engaged, stay informed, and stay hopeful. Nigeria is a country with immense potential, and we all have a role to play in shaping its future.
To our supporters, I say thank you. Your belief in the movement inspires us to do more. Together, we can build a Nigeria that works for everyone.
