The governorship candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC) in Bauchi State, Alhaji Usman Adamu, popularly known as Danchina, has made a compelling promise to turn Bauchi into an industrial hub if elected in the forthcoming 2027 general elections.
He aims to significantly reduce the state’s dependence on salaried employment, which he believes is insufficient for the populace.
Speaking with journalists in Jos, Danchina highlighted the inadequacy of the current minimum wage, which he said fails to meet the daily needs of civil servants, saying his commitment to contesting for the governorship stems from a desire to provide good governance and create opportunities for the people of Bauchi.
Danchina emphasized that his administration would prioritize the welfare of ordinary citizens, creating job opportunities and fostering an enabling environment for youth entrepreneurship.
He identified infrastructure development and industrialization as cornerstones of his agenda, vowing to implement programs that enhance living standards and strengthen the state’s economy.
He urged the people of Bauchi to rally behind the AAC in the 2027 elections, positioning the party as a viable alternative focused on the welfare of its citizens.
Danchina also criticized the current trend of borrowing when Nigeria is celebrating 66th Anniversary, describing it as a “dangerous addiction” that must be replaced with a commitment to self-reliance through agriculture and local productivity.
“This issue of credits and loans is perilous. We have not even serviced our debts, yet we continue to borrow. Soon, we may find ourselves mortgaging our assets,” he warned.
Danchina argued that Nigeria’s overreliance on external funding and federal allocations stifles innovation and productivity, asserting that the nation has enough natural and human resources to thrive independently.
“Government alone cannot do everything. We must start thinking differently. Self-reliance is no longer an option; it is the only way forward,” he stated.
He lamented the rising inflation and declining purchasing power, pointing to what he termed “hidden wealth structures” that prevent economic benefits from reaching the masses.
In unveiling his vision for Bauchi State, Danchina stated that agriculture would be the bedrock of his administration.
He pledged to promote large-scale agricultural initiatives rather than relying solely on white-collar jobs.
“Nigeria has fertile land, abundant rainfall, and a vibrant youth population. If we focus on training our young people early and engaging them productively, we can rejuvenate the economy from the grassroots,” he asserted.
Danchina made it clear that he would not rely heavily on federal allocations, arguing that building local productivity is crucial for the state’s independence.
“I can assure you that if we focus on local productivity, Bauchi will stand strong on its own,” he added.
Addressing the issues of insecurity and recurring ethno-religious violence, Danchina called for unity among Muslims and Christians, urging an end to bloodshed. “No one has the moral right to kill in the name of God. Religion should guide us, not divide us”.
He linked the rise in insecurity to economic hardship, noting that poverty and unemployment often fuel violence and criminality.
Drawing from his experience in the mining sector, Danchina highlighted systemic failures, including poor regulation and environmental neglect. He called for stricter enforcement of reclamation laws to ensure mining operations do not come at the cost of lives.
“Mining should not destroy lives. Companies must restore sites after operations. We cannot afford to lose both resources and lives due to negligence,” he said.
He further advocated for local processing of minerals to enhance value addition and retain wealth within the country.
Expressing concern about a growing moral and social decline among the youth, Danchina attributed this to poor upbringing and a lack of societal values.
He stressed the need to rebuild discipline, respect, and civic responsibility as critical components of national development and community policing.
On security, Danchina proposed a community-based approach, arguing that the current number of security personnel is inadequate for Nigeria’s large population.
“Local authorities must be vigilant about who comes in and out of their communities. This is essential for reducing insecurity,” he suggested.
Describing Nigeria as being at a crucial juncture at 66th years of independence , Danchina warned that failure to act decisively could worsen economic and security challenges.
However, he expressed optimism that with collective sacrifice, visionary leadership, and a renewed focus on productive sectors such as agriculture and mining, Nigeria could find its footing again.
“Nigeria is not poor. We possess land, water, and a committed populace. What we lack is direction and commitment. If we unite, we can turn this country around,” he concluded.
