Hon. Abubakar Muhammad Tahir, the Councillor representing Mayana Ward in Gusau, Zamfara State, in a remarkable display of grassroots empowerment, has taken significant steps to uplift his constituents by distributing bags of charcoal and charcoal irons to support small-scale businesses. This initiative, aimed at fostering self-reliance and economic independence, has been hailed as unprecedented in the history of Zamfara State. Many residents have expressed their gratitude, noting that such a gesture has never been witnessed before from any councilor in the state. The move is expected to inspire other local leaders to adopt similar empowerment programs for their communities.
During the distribution event held on February 14, 2026, Hon. Tahir emphasized his commitment to improving the lives of his people. He announced that two hundred beneficiaries were selected to receive various forms of support, covering different sectors. The first phase of the empowerment program focused on education, targeting orphans and underprivileged children in primary schools. Approximately fifty children were provided with complete school kits, including uniforms, books, and other essential learning materials. Additionally, every primary and secondary school in Mayana Ward received supplies such as chalk, pencils, cleaners, and sharpeners to enhance the learning environment.
Among the schools that benefited from this initiative were Birnin Ruwa Secondary School, Birnin Ruwa Primary School, Tulukawa Primary School, Mayana Model Primary School, Kasha Ruwa Primary School, Unguwar Mangwaro Primary, Gidan Dan Kado Primary School, Kolo Primary School, and Kuka Mai Sheka Primary School. Hon. Tahir also extended his generosity to two schools outside his ward—Sarkin Kudu Suleiman Primary School and Government Girls Sarkin Kudu Secondary School—citing his personal connection to them as a former student. Each of these schools received three pieces of chalk, pencils, and exercise books to support their academic activities.
The second phase of the empowerment program targeted women engaged in small-scale businesses, particularly those involved in the production and sale of gala, a popular local snack. About a hundred women were provided with five pots of soya beans, stoves, and other essential cooking materials to boost their trade. Furthermore, each of these women received clothing materials as a token of appreciation for their support during the election of the state governor, His Excellency Dr. Dauda Lawal.
Hon. Tahir’s initiative has been widely praised for its direct impact on the community. By addressing both educational and economic needs, the program seeks to create sustainable opportunities for growth and development. Many beneficiaries have shared stories of how the support has already begun to transform their lives, enabling them to generate income and improve their living conditions.
The Councillor’s efforts reflect a broader vision of inclusive governance, where leaders actively engage with their constituents to identify and address pressing challenges. His approach serves as a model for other public officeholders, demonstrating that meaningful change can be achieved through thoughtful and targeted interventions. As the people of Mayana Ward continue to benefit from these initiatives, there is renewed hope for a brighter future, driven by collective effort and shared prosperity.
The success of this empowerment program has sparked conversations across Zamfara State, with many calling for similar initiatives in other local government areas. Residents have expressed optimism that such gestures will become a standard practice among elected representatives, ensuring that development reaches the grassroots level. For now, Hon. Abubakar Muhammad Tahir’s legacy as a compassionate and proactive leader is firmly cemented, inspiring others to follow in his footsteps.