In the vibrant landscape of Kogi State, the name, Alhaji (Engr.) Abubakar Bashiru Gegu resonates deeply, transcending the boundaries of mere political titles. For countless residents, he embodies much more than a politician; he stands as a beacon of grassroots service, humility, and practical development that has significantly impacted some communities. His role as the Kogi State Commissioner for Solid Minerals and Natural Resources, coupled with a long-standing political career that began before 2015, has allowed him to cultivate a reputation centered on humanity-first interventions that span various economic sectors and empowerment initiatives.
Engr. Gegu’s political journey commenced within the Peoples Democratic Party, where he initially sought a seat in the House of Representatives. Despite facing a setback with a bye-election loss during the early days of the Yahaya Bello administration, he demonstrated resilience by transitioning to the All Progressives Congress (APC) where he aspired for governor with other 7 contestants then. It was within this new political home that his unwavering commitment to community-focused initiatives garnered him strategic roles and built a foundation of trust within the party’s structure.
In Kogi LGA, this trust has manifested into tangible visibility at the grassroots level. Traditional rulers and community leaders have observed that the interventions influenced by Engr. Gegu—ranging from educational improvements to the development of rural roads—have reached areas that had long been neglected. His daily empowerment drives have made “Bashiru Gegu” a name that resonates in the hearts and homes of many families, signifying hope and progress.
At the helm of the Ministry of Solid Minerals, Engr. Gegu has spearheaded reforms designed to ensure that the sector benefits host communities directly. He has streamlined licensing processes to combat illegal mining activities while forging new partnerships with investors that have not only created jobs but also increased state revenue. His efforts to secure mining licenses and heavy equipment have positioned the ministry to attract more investment, thereby enhancing its operational capacity.
Beyond the confines of his ministry, Engr. Gegu’s influence is palpably felt throughout the state he serves. His initiatives include the establishment of an ultra-modern hospital in Gegu Beki, the implementation of clean-water projects in rural areas, the provision of transformers for village electrification, and the introduction of women’s empowerment grants alongside student scholarships. He has also instituted direct fee support for learners facing financial challenges, ensuring that education remains accessible to all.
Engr. Gegu often articulates his philosophy with a profound creed: “The essence of living is to help each other. If you cannot help, don’t hurt each other.” This guiding principle, as noted by his aides, profoundly influences the selection and execution of projects, ensuring that they align with the community’s needs and aspirations.
Colleagues describe Engr. Gegu as a unique blend of technocrat and community mobilizer. Under his leadership, the Solid Minerals Ministry has adopted a clearer framework aimed at ensuring that host communities reap the benefits of the resources located within their domains. His vision is clear: to transform Kogi’s mineral wealth into a catalyst for economic uplift rather than merely a source of revenue on paper.
Most of the Traditional rulers in Kogi State have noted that his approach—characterized by inclusive consultations, transparency in decision-making, and direct engagement with community members—distinguishes him from conventional political practices. As Kogi embarks on a new political chapter, residents are already measuring Engr. Bashiru Gegu’s impact not only through the projects he has initiated but also in the tangible ways governance is experienced at the village level, marking a significant shift in the political and social landscape of the region.
– Alh. Aliyu Yunusa,
National President,
Bassa Nge National Youth Association (BNYA) Abuja.
