Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed Abdulkadir, on Friday presided over the swearing-in of Aminu Hammayo as the new Secretary to the State Government (SSG), describing him as the “best human capital resource of his administration.”
The Governor also oversaw the oath-taking ceremony of his new Principal Private Secretary (PPS), Hashimu Yakubu, whom he praised highly, saying, “He is an asset to me and the people of the state.”
Both Aminu Hammayo and Hashimu Yakubu were sworn in as SSG and PPS, respectively, during a brief ceremony held at the Executive Chambers of the Governor’s Office, Bauchi.
Before his appointment as SSG, Aminu Hammayo served as the Commissioner for Budget, Economic Planning, and Multilateral Coordination. He replaces Kashim Ibrahim, who resigned under controversial circumstances.
Speaking after the SSG and PPS were sworn in by the Chief Judge of the State, Justice Rabi Talatu Umar, represented by Justice Kunaza of the State High Court, the Governor congratulated the appointees on their well-deserved positions. He also expressed gratitude for their willingness to serve.
He stated that, “They have been integral to my administration since the electioneering period.”
Bala Mohammed highlighted that Aminu Hammayo was part of the “eminent persons” group appointed to develop a blueprint now known as My Bauchi Agenda.
He said, “We have faced numerous challenges. This is why the office of the SSG, though sensitive, has undergone changes. He is the third person to occupy the position.
“Flexibility is essential to addressing gaps in the system. Without a well-functioning engine room, we cannot progress.”
He added, “The departure of the former SSG was prompted by the need for positive change. Aminu Hammayo is a square peg in a square hole.
“He is a financial expert who has risen to the top of his civil service career after a successful banking career. We expect a lot from him, especially in addressing leakages and curbing misdemeanors.”
The Governor expressed appreciation to the new SSG for accepting the role, emphasizing the significance of the appointment.
He stated, “He knows me well; we’ve worked closely together. He is no stranger to government and is well-acquainted with our policies and programs. During the election campaign, he was instrumental in developing the My Bauchi Project blueprint.”
“I have always regarded him as one of the best minds in the cabinet. Even our colleagues agree. He is a simple, capable, and resourceful individual ready to shoulder responsibilities during these challenging times.”
Regarding the new PPS, Hashimu Yakubu, the Governor said, “We have been friends since childhood, attending the same primary school and growing up together.
“I have full confidence in him. He has excelled as a top civil servant in the state and will undoubtedly perform well as PPS. His role requires a close confidant, and he has proven himself capable.”
Hashimu Yakubu, a former District Head of the defunct Kumbala District, rose to the rank of Permanent Secretary and has been a pillar of the Bala Mohammed administration, notably serving as the Governor’s speechwriter.
In his response on behalf of both appointees, the new SSG pledged absolute loyalty to Governor Bala Mohammed and promised to exceed expectations in discharging their constitutional duties.
He said, “We have to work today as if there is no tomorrow. Your Excellency, we assure you of our absolute loyalty and commitment to achieving the administration’s goals and targets.”
He also thanked the Governor for the opportunity to serve and prayed for divine guidance and wisdom for the Governor and his cabinet in delivering their vision for the state.
Governor Bala Mohammed concluded by expressing optimism that the new appointments would reinvigorate his administration, enabling it to deliver impactful governance to the state.
