A factor which determines what a state gets as statutory allocation and this means that we have to tighten our belt so that we get more allocation. To achieve that, we have to work hard towards increasing the level of economic activities in the state.

This explains why our Governor, Senator Mamman Ali, initiated a number of schemes and projects aimed primarily at improving peoples’ well being and empowering them to engage in profitable economic pursuits. We have the youth empowerment scheme which renders support to our teeming youths to till the land in order to radically change the agricultural sector. We have also gone far in the construction of houses all over the state, hospitals are being built across the state, boarding primary schools, adequate fertilizer is being provided to all our farmers and we have developed the irrigation sector.

Not in the least. It is when you allow loopholes to exist in your financial transactions that people will take advantage to exploit. In our case, we have plug all the loopholes through tight control of expenditure. Every contract approved by the state executive council has to be initiated by the relevant ministries and from there it goes through all laid down procedure until it reaches the point where we would be advised to act appropriately. Vouchers raised by the initiating ministry, have to be accompanied by all relevant documents in order to ensure that due process is actually followed.

I can assure you that we are fully in control and we are fully accountable for every kobo to the last.

He is first class. You know he has been in the senate for eight years. While there, he chaired several committees, one of which was the public Accounts committee. This opportunity helped him greatly to understand government and its activities. He established contacts and connection across the world, garnered goodwill, associated with all manner of leaders and people and generally became focused, visionary, straight forward, committed and purposeful. He stands out. Yobe is actually lucky that this time round, the people have got it right in the choice of the right man to change things for the better.

I have worked with many bosses at various places, but none has made an impression on me like Governor Mamman Ali. He is prudent and accountable, a good listener and a team player who consults and liaises with all lieutenants in order to achieve goals. He delegates responsibilities.

The type of leadership you have determines the qualities of input you get. Good leadership is first and foremost, the basic requirement for results. His decisions and judgment on issues have always been world class. Yobe is in deed lucky.