Born on 15 September 1956 in Bukarti village, Yobe state, Ibrahim Gaidam stands out as a key player in Nigeria’s political arena. As of now, he holds the esteemed position of Nigeria’s Minister of Police Affairs. He celebrated victory once again in the 2023 General election, retaining his seat as the Senator for Yobe East Senatorial District. Before this, Gaidam was the revered Governor of Yobe State until 29 May 2019, when the APC National Secretary, Mai Mala Buni, succeeded him.
Beginning his educational journey at Borno Teachers’ College, Maiduguri (1974-1979), Gaidam secured a Teachers’ Certificate. He then advanced his education at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, obtaining a Diploma in Accountancy (1981-1983). His quest for knowledge didn’t end there; he went on to earn a BSc in Accountancy by 1990 from the same institution. This academic excellence paved the way for him to become a proud member of the Certified Public Accountants of Nigeria.
Before stepping into the political limelight, Gaidam carved a niche for himself in accountancy. His expertise was evident in his roles across different governmental departments in Borno State, which subsequently became Yobe State. These roles encompassed positions like the assistant director of Finance in the Directorate of Foods, Roads, and Rural Infrastructure and the acting Director of Finance and Supplies in the Information and Culture Ministry of Yobe. After a stint as Commissioner for Youths and Sports and later for Commerce and Industries, he circled back to the civil service. Gaidam served with distinction as Director of the State Finance Ministry and held the position of Permanent Secretary in multiple ministries till 2007.
The year 2007 marked a significant turn in Gaidam’s career when he clinched the Deputy Governor seat of Yobe State on the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP) ticket. Unfortunately, in 2009, the state mourned the loss of Governor Mamman Bello Ali. This led to Gaidam’s ascendancy as Executive Governor, with Alhaji Abubakar Ali, the late governor’s sibling, filling the Deputy Governor role.
With a knack for leadership, Gaidam took charge of the ANPP tactical committee for the 2011 elections. His unwavering resolve was evident during the Boko Haram-triggered disturbances in July 2009. He represented Yobe at the Northern Governors’ Forum (NGF) emergency meeting in Kaduna, standing tall among only three attending governors.
His governance was characterized by his call for harmony, evident in his 2009 Sallah message that emphasized unity among Yobe’s varied religious communities. Gaidam’s commitment to his people led to his re-election as governor in 2011 and 2015. In a testament to his political prowess, he secured a senatorial win for Yobe East in the 9th NASS on 23 March 2019.
Throughout his illustrious journey, Ibrahim Gaidam remains a symbol of commitment to Yobe State and Nigeria’s progress and unity.
