By Bashir Ya’u
The emergence of Dr. Bashir Gambo Saulawa as Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Katsina State has ushered in a new phase of renewed energy, accessibility, consultation and organisational commitment within the party.
His assumption of office has brought a noticeable change to the administration and activities of the party, particularly in the area of strengthening its internal structures, improving relationships with members and stakeholders, and restoring the state party secretariat as a vibrant centre of political engagement.
For many party members who have followed the activities of the APC secretariat over the years, the transformation has been remarkable. There was a time when the party office was often relatively quiet, with the presence of state party leaders largely associated with scheduled meetings and major engagements.
Since Dr. Saulawa assumed leadership, however, the secretariat has become considerably more active. He is regularly available at the office during working hours, except when official engagements or other unavoidable commitments take him elsewhere. His accessibility has encouraged party members from different parts of Katsina State to visit the secretariat, interact directly with the leadership and present their concerns, ideas and suggestions.
This open-door approach has not only strengthened communication between the leadership and the grassroots but has also contributed to renewed confidence among party members. The chairman’s willingness to receive members and stakeholders warmly and listen to their views has given the party secretariat a more welcoming and inclusive atmosphere.
Dr. Saulawa has equally paid attention to the physical transformation of the party secretariat.
Under his leadership, efforts have been made to improve the appearance, functionality and overall environment of the office, making it more suitable for modern political administration and stakeholder engagement.
Perhaps more importantly, his leadership has placed considerable emphasis on strengthening the party’s grassroots structures. Dr. Saulawa has embarked on engagements and visits to APC leaders across various local government areas, demonstrating a commitment to maintaining direct contact with the party’s structures beyond the state capital.
His approach has been particularly significant following the party’s consensus process for determining candidates and strengthening internal unity. Rather than allowing differences that may arise from the consensus process to weaken the party, the state leadership has continued to engage with all stakeholders in a spirit of dialogue, respect and reconciliation.
Those whose preferred aspirations did not ultimately prevail in the consensus arrangement have been approached with understanding and encouraged to continue contributing to the collective progress of the party.
Through such engagements, the leadership has demonstrated that political contests and individual aspirations should not permanently divide members who share a common political platform.
This commitment to reconciliation and unity is essential to building a strong political organisation. The strength of any political party is not measured only by its ability to win elections, but also by its capacity to accommodate diverse interests, resolve differences amicably and bring its members together around a common objective.
Dr. Saulawa has also maintained regular consultations with party leaders, elders and other critical stakeholders in the state. His recognition of the importance of consultation has helped create an atmosphere in which important party matters can be discussed collectively and different perspectives considered.
Another commendable aspect of his leadership is his cordial relationship with people beyond the APC. His respectful engagement with members of opposition political parties reflects a mature approach to politics, one that recognises that political differences should not translate into personal hostility or undermine peaceful coexistence.
With these developments, there is a growing perception among party members that the APC in Katsina is experiencing a period of organisational renewal. The party secretariat is increasingly becoming a place where members can interact with their leaders, seek guidance, express their views and participate in discussions concerning the future of the party.
The progress recorded under Dr. Saulawa’s leadership should also be viewed within the broader context of the support and cooperation he receives from the Executive Governor of Katsina State, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, as well as other leaders and stakeholders of the APC.
Strong party administration requires cooperation between the party leadership and political office holders, as well as the collective commitment of members at all levels.
The support provided by the governor and other stakeholders has therefore remained an important component of the efforts to strengthen the party’s structures and sustain unity.
As the 2027 general elections approach, the task before the APC leadership is to consolidate these gains by deepening grassroots engagement, sustaining reconciliation, strengthening internal democracy and ensuring that all members feel valued and carried along.
If the current spirit of consultation, accessibility and unity is sustained, the APC in Katsina will be better positioned to face future political challenges and build on its existing strengths.
The emergence of Dr. Bashir Gambo Saulawa has therefore not merely introduced a new personality into the leadership of the APC in Katsina; it has provided an opportunity to revitalise the party’s administrative culture, reconnect its leadership with the grassroots and reinforce the spirit of unity upon which lasting political success depends.
The hope of party members and supporters is that this renewed momentum will continue to grow, enabling the APC to emerge stronger, more united and better organised ahead of the 2027 elections.
May Almighty Allah continue to guide the leadership and members of the APC in Katsina State, strengthen their unity and grant the party success in the forthcoming elections and beyond.
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