Emir of Potiskum: Leadership is a Trust, Not for Personal Gain

The Emir of Potiskum, His Royal Highness Alhaji Umaru Bubaram Ibn Wuriwa Bauya, has said his life is all about serving humanity. He stressed that leadership is a sacred trust and should never be for personal gain.

The Emir, who has been a traditional ruler since 1994, spoke to Arewa PUNCH about his journey. He shared how his experiences in the classroom and the Nigerian Prison Service prepared him for his role in Potiskum.

He said, "Service to humanity has always been my guiding principle. Every stage of my life has been guided by the belief that whatever position Allah places you in should be used to serve humanity sincerely."

The Emir explained that his teaching years taught him patience and fairness. His time in the Nigerian Prison Service helped him learn about discipline and leadership.

He said, "The teaching profession taught me how to develop people, while the Nigerian Prison Service taught me discipline, administration and leadership. When I eventually became the Emir of Potiskum, I realised that Allah had been preparing me throughout those years to serve my people more effectively."

One important moment in his life happened when traditional institutions in Yobe State were dissolved shortly after he became Emir. He was told to return to the Nigerian Prison Service since he was still a federal officer. But he decided to stay with his people.

He said, "Although returning to the Prison Service would have secured my career, I believed my greater responsibility was to the people of Potiskum. Looking back today, I have no regrets. Every stage of my life has been guided by the belief that whatever position Allah places you in should be used to serve humanity sincerely."

The Emir believes that leadership should not be judged by wealth or political power but by the positive impact on society.

He said, "I do not measure success by monetary wealth, but by the peace, unity and progress within the community. Leadership must always be about service, not personal gain. A leader should wake up every day thinking about how to improve the lives of his people."

Alhaji Umaru Bubaram Ibn Wuriwa Bauya urged public office holders to prioritize the welfare of citizens over personal interests. He said only selfless leadership can bring sustainable development.

He concluded, "When leaders put the welfare of the citizenry above personal interests, the nation will make meaningful progress."