By Francis Wilfred
Vice President Kashim Shettima, Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) Senator George Akume, and Chief of Staff to the President, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, have paid glowing tributes to the Special Adviser to the President on Policy and Coordination, Hadiza Bala Usman, as she marked her 50th birthday.The encomiums were delivered at the Hadiza Bala @ 50 Governance Colloquium held in Abuja, where top government officials, former public office holders, and other dignitaries gathered to celebrate her contributions to governance, leadership, and national development.
In a goodwill message, Vice President Shettima described Hadiza Bala Usman as a distinguished public servant whose career has been defined by integrity, courage, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. The message was contained in a press statement signed by Mr. Segun Imohiosen, Director of Information and Public Relations.He noted that her service record—spanning roles as Chief of Staff to the Governor of Kaduna State, co-founder of the *Bring Back Our Girls* movement, Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), and her current position as Special Adviser to the President—has inspired many Nigerians, particularly women, to aspire to leadership and public service.“
She is a quintessential public servant whose dedication and passion for excellence continue to leave lasting impressions on governance and national development,” the Vice President said.Also speaking, SGF Senator George Akume said Hadiza Bala Usman has distinguished herself through intellectual rigour, strategic foresight, and a results-driven approach to governance. He highlighted her role as Head of the Central Results Delivery and Coordination Unit, noting that her work has strengthened policy implementation and accountability under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Akume wished her good health, wisdom, and many more years of impactful service to the nation.In his remarks, Chief of Staff to the President, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, described the golden jubilee as a celebration of a life defined by purpose, discipline, and courage. According to him, Hadiza Bala’s public service journey reflects conviction and principle rather than convenience or popularity.“She represents a disciplined path in public life, shaped by values and an unwavering commitment to service,” Gbajabiamila said.
The event attracted several high-profile dignitaries, including the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris; Minister of Agriculture, Senator Abubakar Kyari; former SGF, Boss Mustapha; Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev; Minister of Regional Development, Engr. Abubakar Momoh; Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande; and Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate.
Others in attendance were former Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi; Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi; members of the National Assembly; and other distinguished guests.The colloquium provided an opportunity to reflect on Hadiza Bala Usman’s leadership journey and her contributions to strengthening governance, policy coordination, and public sector performance in Nigeria.
