History remembers nations through the vision, courage, and sacrifice of their founding leaders, and Nigeria’s journey toward unity, stability, and progress bears the indelible imprint of Sir Ahmadu Bello, the Sardaunan Sokoto—one of the foremost founding fathers of the modern Nigerian state.
Today, 15th January, 2026, marks sixty (60) years since the tragic and brutal assassination of this towering statesman, the first and only Premier of the former Northern Region. His untimely murder on the fateful night of 15th January, 1966, alongside his devoted wife, Hafsatu, and others, constituted not only a profound loss to Northern Nigeria but a defining wound in the national conscience of Nigeria.
Sir Ahmadu Bello was far more than a political leader; he was a visionary architect of progress, a bridge between tradition and modern governance, and a tireless champion of his people. With uncommon discipline, integrity, and devotion to hard work, he laid the institutional, educational, and administrative foundations upon which Northern Nigeria—and indeed the Nigerian federation—continue to stand.
His enduring legacies remain firmly embedded across Nigeria’s developmental landscape, most notably the establishment of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, a world-renowned citadel of learning that has produced generations of leaders, professionals, and intellectuals serving the nation and the global community.
Beyond ABU, his foresight gave rise to critical development institutions, public service reforms, and strategic social infrastructure that transformed Northern Nigeria into a region defined by purpose, structure, and long-term vision.
In this spirit of historical consciousness and responsible leadership, the Chairman of Zaria Local Government Council, Engr. Jamil Ahmad Muhammad (Jaga), solemnly honours and commemorates the life, sacrifice, and ideals of the Sardauna.
This remembrance reflects a clear understanding that effective governance is anchored in continuity—where today’s leadership draws strength, legitimacy, and direction from the sacrifices and vision of yesterday’s pioneers.
By paying tribute to Sir Ahmadu Bello, Chairman Jaga reaffirms a fundamental principle of governance: that progress without history is fragile, and leadership without respect for legacy is hollow.
The values of integrity, selfless service, unity, and purposeful development championed by the Sardauna remain a moral compass for public officeholders committed to genuine nation-building.
Rest in perfect peace, Sardauna Gamji.The North remembers. Nigeria remembers. History will forever honour your life, your sacrifice, and your enduring legacy.
A statement signed by Ishaq Galadima, Chief press secretary office of the chairman said Hon Jaga also joined other other Nigerians in celebrating the Armed Forces on the occasion of the Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day (AFCRD) 2026.He noted with satisfaction the contributions of the Armed Forces in safeguarding the National security.
He equally pledged the local government commitment in assisting the security agencies in the maintenance of law and order in the local government,the state and the country as a whole.
