"Everything is at its Acme;e specially the art of making one's way in the world. There is more required nowadays to make a single wise man than formerly to make Seven Sages, and more is needed nowadays to deal with a single person than was required with a whole people in former times". - Baltasar Gracian
In the tumultuous realm of Nigerian politics, where names echo and reverberate through the corridors of power, one figure emerged unexpectedly, captivating the attention of pundits, critics, and the public alike. The genesis of Hon. Tajudden Abbas's political journey into national prominence a moved that will forever mark his name in the golden pages of Nigeria's leadership echelon was marked by anointing, as the All Progressives Congress (APC) positioned him for the role of Speaker of the 10th National Assembly during the early days of the Tinubu Administration.
In the labyrinth of speculation and ponderance, the unveiling of Abbas as a preferred candidate left many questioning, "Who is Hon. Tajudden Abbas?" The political landscape was astir with curiosity, and the ruling party, drawing from past experiences, meticulously orchestrated measures to ensure the triumph of its nominated candidates. As history would reveal, Abbas not only met these expectations but surpassed them, carving an illustrious path as the helmsman of Nigeria's House of Representatives.
Representing the Zaria federal constituency of Kaduna, Abbas's tenure at the green chamber has been a testament to his ability to set records straight. His leadership, though in its early months, has left an indelible mark on the legislative landscape. But beyond the political veneer lies a multifaceted persona—a blend of an astute academician, seasoned politician, and a prince destined for royalty.
In a deep dive into the intricacies of Abbas's life, Mohammed Bello Doka unravels concealed truths about this enigmatic figure. Born into royalty three years after Nigeria gained independence, Abbas carries the prestigious title of Iyan Zazzau, tracing his lineage to the Mallawa dynasty of the Zazzau Emirate. The sacred order of succession places him in line to ascend the illustrious throne as the Emir of Zazzau, a revelation that adds a regal nuance to his political narrative.
Abbas's journey from the LEA Primary School in Zaria to the echelons of academia at Ahmadu Bello University reflects an insatiable hunger for knowledge. His academic odyssey, culminating in a Ph.D. from Usman Dan Fodio University in Sokoto, portrays a commitment to intellectual pursuits that parallel his political endeavors.
Beyond the political arena, Abbas's impact extends to academia, where he pioneered departments and left an indelible mark on institutions such as Nuhu Bamalli Polytechnic and Kaduna State University. His trailblazing ventures in education echo the legacy of a visionary leader shaping the minds of future generations.
The endorsement of Abbas by Femi Gbajabiamila, his predecessor, further underscores the depth of his impact. Gbajabiamila's recognition of Abbas's legislative prowess, marked by the sponsorship of 74 bills, stands as a testament to the silent achiever's capacity.
As the narrative of Hon. Tajudden Abbas unfolds, it weaves together threads of royalty, academia, and politics into a tapestry of an exceptional leader. In the symphony of Nigerian politics, Abbas's rise continues to resonate, promising a future where the enigma becomes a guiding force for a nation in constant evolution.
In the Shadows of Royalty: Dr. Tajudeen Abbas, The Zazzau Prince.
"There is no royal road; you've got to work a good deal harder than most people want to work." Charles E. Wilson
Born three years after Nigeria gained independence on October 1, 1963, Abbas emerged into the world as a scion of the Mallawa dynasty, a family with roots intertwined with the governance of the Zazzau Emirate. His great-grandfather once held the esteemed position of Emir in this ancient domain. Nestled within the embrace of tradition, Abbas carries the prestigious traditional title of Iyan Zazzau, an honor that reflects not just his lineage but also his place within the sacred order of succession—a trajectory leading towards the illustrious throne of the Emir of Zazzau.
From his earliest years, little Abbas exuded an extraordinary aura, a child seemingly destined for greatness. His educational journey began at the LEA Primary School in Lemu, Zaria, where the foundations of his knowledge were laid, culminating in the acquisition of his first school leaving certificate (FSLC). This marked only the beginning of a lifelong pursuit of intellectual prowess.
The odyssey continued as Abbas navigated the corridors of the Government Secondary School in Makarfi, earning his West African Examination Certificate (WAEC) in 1978. Undeterred by challenges, he pursued a Grade I certificate at Kaduna Teacher's College in 1981, delving into the intricacies of teaching.
Yet, Abbas's hunger for academic excellence remained insatiable. His path led him to Ahmadu Bello University in Zaria, where he delved into the realm of accounting, earning a diploma in 1984. The pursuit of knowledge became an unyielding force as he obtained a B.Sc in business administration in 1988, followed by an M.Sc in the same discipline in 1993, both from Ahmadu Bello University. Unfazed by the rigors of academic pursuits, Abbas further etched his scholarly footprint by securing a Ph.D. from Usman Dan Fodio University in Sokoto.
The saga of academic conquest did not end there. Abbas's thirst for knowledge propelled him to another B.Sc in Business Administration Management, adding another layer to his multifaceted educational journey at Usman Dan Fodio University.
In the life of Dr. Tajudeen Abbas, each chapter is a testament to the rich tapestry of heritage, education, and an unspoken destiny that weaves through the corridors of royalty. As the Zazzau prince treads through the annals of history, his story becomes not just a personal narrative but a profound reflection of tradition and the promise of a destiny shaped by the echoes of centuries past.
From Classroom to Boardroom: The Remarkable Odyssey of Dr. Tajudeen Abbas
"True scholarship consists in knowing not what things exist, but what they mean; it is not memory but judgment." - James Russell Lowell
Embarking on a journey that mirrors the tapestry of determination and resilience, Dr. Tajudeen Abbas etched an extraordinary narrative, evolving from a primary school teacher to an illustrious senior lecturer at the university.
In the corridors of education, Abbas's story unfolds with the chalk dust of his early years settling in the classrooms. Between 1981 and 1988, he served as a dedicated primary school teacher, laying the foundation for what would become a transformative career.
In June 1998, Abbas, fueled by an insatiable quest for new horizons, diverged momentarily from the well-trodden path of civil service. Venturing into the private sector, he found himself navigating the intricate landscape of the Nigerian Tobacco Company (NTC) Plc in Jos. For an impressive three years and three months, he donned the mantle of a general manager, steering through the complexities of the industry.
The subsequent chapter in Abbas's journey unfolded in the hallowed halls of Nuhu Bamalli Polytechnic in September 2001. Here, he transitioned seamlessly into the role of an educator, sharing his wealth of knowledge until June 2005.
A new month brought a new beginning as Abbas set foot on the grounds of Kaduna State University. Driven by determination and dedication, he embarked on a trajectory that saw him ascend the ranks, ultimately reaching the zenith of his academic career as a senior lecturer. His commitment to profound knowledge and education became a testament to his unwavering dedication.
However, just when Abbas's academic voyage seemed to have reached its pinnacle, the siren call of politics echoed in his ears. In 2010, he embraced a bold audacity, taking a plunge into the unpredictable waters of politics. With a bittersweet farewell to the hallowed halls of academia, Abbas embraced a new chapter, one that would see him redefine his role in the service of the public.
The story of Dr. Tajudeen Abbas is not merely a chronicle of career shifts but a testament to the dynamic spirit of reinvention and the pursuit of new frontiers. From classrooms to boardrooms, Abbas's journey resonates as an inspiration for those who dare to tread the path less taken.
Parliamentary Odyssey: A Tapestry of Legislative Excellence
"...more than six people cannot agree on anything, three is better and one is perfect for a job that one can do. This is why parliamentary bodies all through history, when they accomplished anything, owed it to a few strong men who dominated the rest."- Heinlein Robert A
In the labyrinthine corridors of Nigeria's political arena, Dr. Tajudeen Abbas embarked on a profound parliamentary voyage that would weave a tapestry of legislative excellence and set him apart as a distinguished figure in the annals of the green chamber.
The saga began in 2011 when Abbas secured his inaugural seat in the federal house of representatives under the banner of the now-defunct Congress for Progressive Change (CPC). A testament to his widespread appeal, he triumphed once more in the 2015 elections, this time donning the colors of the All Progressive Congress (APC).
Within the hallowed green chamber, Abbas assumed a multifaceted role, participating in various committees that form the sinews of legislative machinery. His journey into parliamentary responsibilities commenced with the pivotal position of deputy chairman of the house committee on legislative compliance, a role he adeptly navigated from 2011 to 2015.
With the inauguration of the house in 2019, Abbas's stature grew as he ascended to chair the committee on land transport, steering legislative matters with precision. However, this was just one facet of his intricate parliamentary engagement. The year 2019 saw him take on the prestigious role of treasurer for the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (African chapter), broadening his influence on the continental stage.
Adding to his repertoire, Abbas contributed his insights to the governing council of the Nigerian Institute of Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS) from 2019 to 2023, representing the north-west geo-political zone. His leadership within the APC Kaduna caucus in the house of representatives, a position held since 2019, underscored his political acumen.
A significant juncture in his parliamentary sojourn occurred in 2021 when he was entrusted with the chairmanship of the house of representatives sub-committee on the constitutional review conference for the north-central. This role not only showcased his adeptness in constitutional matters but also affirmed his strategic influence within the legislative fabric.
Far from being a passive observer in the legislative process, Abbas actively embraced his constitutional mandate of lawmaking. Colleagues, describing him as a "silent achiever," attested to his unwavering commitment to delivering on the promises of representation.
The pinnacle of his legislative journey was marked by an extraordinary feat – the sponsorship of 74 bills during his four-year stint in the 9th lower legislative chamber. A remarkable tally, with over 18 of these bills receiving the coveted presidential assent, spoke volumes about Abbas's legislative prowess.
In the shadows of humility, Abbas operated, evading the spotlight despite his outstanding contributions. However, the veil of anonymity was lifted when OrderPaper Nigeria, a distinguished news media organization specializing in parliamentary affairs, bestowed upon him an award for being among the top performers in the 9th National Assembly. This recognition affirmed that Abbas's parliamentary odyssey had left an indelible mark on the legislative landscape, etching his name among the luminaries of Nigeria's political history.
Architect of Change: Dr. Tajudeen Abbas' Trailblazing Legacy
"The person who follows the crowd will usually go no further than the crowd. The person who walks alone is likely to find himself in places no one has ever seen before." -Albert Einstein
In the labyrinth of Nigeria's political landscape, Dr. Tajudeen Abbas stands as a beacon of distinction, an architect of change whose journey has not only broken records but has set an indelible mark on the canvas of legislative history.
As the only federal lawmaker from the north-west geo-political zone to sponsor a groundbreaking 74 bills, Abbas has etched his name in the annals of democracy. This feat not only distinguishes him in the current political terrain but also marks a historic milestone since the restoration of democracy in 1999. With over 20 of his sponsored bills enshrined into law, Abbas has not merely legislated; he has sculpted a formidable bedrock for future lawmakers.
His influence extends beyond legislative chambers. Abbas's trailblazing ventures include pioneering roles in academia, shaping the intellectual landscape for generations to come. As the pioneer head of the Department of Accounting and Finance at Nuhu Bamalli Polytechnic, Zaria, he laid the foundation for academic excellence. Additionally, he played a pivotal role in establishing the Department of Business Administration at the same institution, further solidifying his commitment to educational development.
The story of Dr. Tajudeen Abbas goes beyond accomplishments; it resonates in the endorsement of his capacity by Femi Gbajabiamila, his predecessor, and fellow legislator. Gbajabiamila's decision to support Abbas, despite not being closely acquainted, underscores the magnitude of Abbas's impact. Gbajabiamila remarked on Abbas's remarkable feat of drafting and sponsoring 74 bills, expressing awe at the dedication and thorough research required for such an achievement. Notably, 21 of these bills received the presidential nod, a testament to Abbas's legislative prowess.
Gbajabiamila's nomination of Abbas for the African Parliamentary Union in 2019 was not just a gesture; it was a recognition of Abbas's rising star on the international stage. At parliamentary conferences in Rwanda, Uganda, Cairo, and beyond, Abbas's influence eclipsed borders. His election as the treasurer of the African parliament showcased not only his capabilities but also the respect garnered from his international counterparts.
In an interview, Abbas affirmed his commitment to preserving the independence of the national assembly. Amid concerns about a perceived "rubber stamp" assembly, he pledged to maintain legislative autonomy while fostering collaboration with the executive for the benefit of Nigerians. His assurance reflects a dedication to democratic principles, assuring the public that the forthcoming 10th national assembly under his leadership won't compromise its independence.
As Dr. Tajudeen Abbas ascends to the distinguished position of the number four seat in the country, the symphony of the green chamber awaits his orchestration. All eyes are fixed on this transformative figure, a silent achiever whose capacity transcends rhetoric, promising a future sculpted by the hands of a visionary leader.
Bello Doka is the Publisher at Abuja Network News and can be reached at [email protected]
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