HON. UMAR SHEHU AJILO: CHAMPIONING DEVELOPMENT AND GRASSROOTS TRANSFORMATION IN MAKARFI-KUDAN FEDERAL CONSTITUENCY

In a political climate where performance often falls short of promises, Hon. Umar Shehu Ajilo, the Member representing Makarfi-Kudan Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, stands as a beacon of responsive and impactful leadership. Since his election, Hon. Ajilo has combined effective lawmaking with strategic developmental interventions aimed at improving lives and uplifting communities.

This comprehensive review highlights his outstanding work across legislative duties, youth and women empowerment, education and healthcare support, and infrastructure development.

Legislative Leadership: Raising the Voice of His Constituency

Hon. Ajilo has used the legislative platform effectively to highlight the challenges facing his constituency and northern Nigeria at large.

Security Advocacy:

He moved a critical motion addressing incessant kidnapping and banditry in Danguzuri, Gimi, Guibi, Dako, Randa, and Zage Zagi communities. The House adopted his call and directed security agencies to take immediate action to restore peace.

Condemnation of Violence:

He sponsored a motion on the killing of the village head of Marke and other security threats in Makarfi-Kudan, pressing the need for sustained military and police presence in affected areas.

Support for Farmers:

Recognizing the agrarian nature of his constituency, Hon. Ajilo advocated for the inclusion of 65 km of rural access roads in the national budget to support farmers and rural dwellers in transporting goods with ease.

These interventions are a clear reflection of a lawmaker who is not only aware of the challenges facing his people but is committed to finding policy solutions.

Empowerment and Livelihood: Promoting Self-Reliance

Understanding the socio-economic struggles of his constituents, Hon. Ajilo has rolled out extensive empowerment programs targeting the most vulnerable groups.

Youth Skill Development:

In partnership with Agard Farms Ltd., 200 youths from across the constituency were trained in fish farming and livestock management at the Isa Ashiru Skills Acquisition Centre in Kudan, preparing them for agro-based entrepreneurship.

Empowerment Package Distribution:

Over 500 beneficiaries received various forms of support including:

₦10,000 cash grants,

Sewing machines,

Tricycles (Keke Napep),

Motorcycles,

Generators,

Sports kits.

This effort was deliberately structured to uplift widows, youth, and women, giving them the tools for economic independence and social stability.

Social Welfare and Education: Building Human Capital for the Future

Hon. Ajilo has made significant investments in the future of his constituents through education and healthcare programs.

Scholarships and Academic Support:

He awarded scholarships to 200 students across Makarfi and Kudan, and collaborated with the Makarfi Education Trust & Endowment Fund (METEF) to pay tuition fees for over 300 indigent students in tertiary institutions.

Health Insurance Enrollment:

Through NHIS (National Health Insurance Scheme), hundreds of women and children now have access to quality medical care without out-of-pocket expenses.

School Support Initiatives:

Some of his constituency projects also include the distribution of learning materials and renovation of schools, ensuring that education is accessible and of quality across both urban and rural wards.

Infrastructure Development: Bridging the Rural-Urban Divide

In addition to his legislative and social programs, Hon. Ajilo is equally committed to physical development that impacts daily life.

Primary Healthcare Centers Upgrade:

He facilitated over ₦52 million worth of projects for the renovation and upgrading of health facilities in Gwanki (Makarfi), Doka and Garu (Kudan). These centers are now better equipped to serve thousands of residents with improved health services.

Advocacy for Rural Roads:

His proposed 65 km of rural road projects, currently under federal consideration, will drastically improve connectivity between villages and local markets—enhancing trade, transport, and emergency access.

Strategic Vision and Community Engagement

Beyond tangible projects, Hon. Ajilo stands out for his consultative approach to leadership. He regularly engages community leaders, youth groups, and stakeholders to ensure that every project aligns with the actual needs of the people.

His future plans include:

Expanding digital inclusion initiatives,

Introducing renewable energy mini-grids in off-grid areas,

Deepening girl-child education support,

And increasing access to healthcare through mobile clinics.

Conclusion: A New Era of Representation

Hon. Umar Shehu Ajilo exemplifies what it means to represent people with passion, purpose, and performance. Whether on the floor of the National Assembly or in remote villages of Makarfi and Kudan, his presence is felt through projects, policies, and programs that are changing lives.

By combining legislative activism with community-based solutions, Hon. Ajilo has redefined the role of a federal lawmaker in Nigeria—not just as a voice in Abuja, but as an engine of development back home.