OPINION:
By Danlami Abubakar Maikano
In every political movement, there are figures whose work, though quiet and often unseen, defines the stability and success of their party. One such figure is Alhaji Kabir Ibrahim Masari, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Political Matters, and a trusted ally of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
For over a decade, Masari has been a consistent pillar of strength for the All Progressives Congress (APC) right from the Buhari years to the Tinubu presidency. His influence, particularly across the North-West and the broader northern region, has been instrumental in keeping the party united, focused, and forward-looking.
Masari’s political journey is rooted in loyalty, strategy, and service. He was part of the early architects of the APC’s northern structure, working tirelessly during the formative years of the Buhari administration to build bridges among key stakeholders and maintain harmony within the I’m party.
Those who know him describe him as a silent strategist who calm, focused, and unshakably loyal to the ideals of progress and unity. His ability to navigate complex political terrains and mediate between competing interests has earned him respect from party leaders, governors, and grassroots members alike.
As Senior Special Assistant to President Tinubu on Political Matters, Masari plays a vital role in ensuring synergy between the Presidency and state governments, particularly in the North-West. He understands the pulse of the region, its political dynamics, aspirations, and expectations from the APC-led federal government.
Through strategic engagement, consultation, and quiet diplomacy, he has helped strengthen cooperation between Abuja and the governors of Kano, Katsina, Jigawa, Kebbi, Kaduna, and Sokoto. This collaboration has allowed for smoother political coordination, better communication, and a stronger sense of shared purpose.
His influence extends beyond political structures into real human connections. Masari’s approach is simple but effective: listen to the people, align with their hopes, and build confidence through inclusion. That principle has guided his interventions across the region, including his notable efforts in reconciling aggrieved APC members in Bauchi State, where internal divisions once threatened to weaken the party’s base.
Masari’s tactful mediation and genuine engagement with party leaders and factions helped restore unity, rebuild trust, and reposition the APC as a cohesive force ahead of future elections. His success in Bauchi reaffirmed his reputation as one of the party’s most dependable peacebuilders and strategic consensus managers.
The recent defection of over 60,000 people in Jigawa State to the APC stands as a clear testament to Masari’s growing political influence. His presence at the event, and his appeal for continued unity and loyalty to the Tinubu administration, were more than ceremonial. They symbolised the renewed momentum of the APC in the North-West.
In Masari’s words, Jigawa and other states in the region “will continue to benefit from the Renewed Hope Agenda,” reinforcing the message that development and inclusion remain at the heart of APC’s mission. By ensuring that northern states feel both politically represented and economically included, Masari is laying a solid foundation for President Tinubu’s reelection in 2027.
Masari’s political philosophy rests on a simple truth that, the North’s strength lies in its unity. Under his guidance, the APC has deepened its reach into communities once considered politically distant. He has championed the integration of youth groups, traditional leaders, women’s associations, and grassroots political movements into the APC fold by ensuring that every voice is heard and every constituency is represented.
Beyond party politics, Masari has continued to preach tolerance, cooperation, and national unity. His diplomacy extends beyond the North, as he often serves as a bridge between northern and southern leaders, reflecting President Tinubu’s belief in an inclusive Nigeria where no region is left behind.
While others chase headlines, Masari focuses on results. His coordination efforts have contributed to resolving internal rifts within APC structures in several northern states, encouraging mass defections from opposition parties through persuasive, grassroots-driven engagement.
His strategy is also strengthening confidence in the Tinubu administration among northern communities, ensuring that APC’s policy gains translate into political goodwill across the region. Each of these quiet victories adds up to a broader narrative of unity and resilience within the ruling party.
President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda depends not only on sound policy but also on political stability. Figures like Kabir Ibrahim Masari ensure that the message of hope, reform, and national development continues to resonate strongly across Nigeria’s political heartland.
As the 2027 elections draw nearer, Masari’s role as a stabiliser and mobiliser in the North will become even more critical. His ability to connect the grassroots to the presidency, and to translate federal policies into tangible local benefits, gives APC a unique advantage.
Kabir Ibrahim Masari may not be the loudest voice in the room, but his influence is undeniable. Through his strategic wisdom, calm diplomacy, and deep understanding of northern politics, he has helped cement APC’s place as the dominant force in the region.
With the North-West and indeed, the entire North rallying behind President Tinubu’s leadership, it is clear that Masari’s quiet strength continues to power the engine of progress, unity, and victory.
In politics, as in leadership, some heroes prefer to work behind the scenes. Kabir Ibrahim Masari is one of them, and is steady, loyal, and unrelenting in his commitment to the success of the APC and the future of Nigeria.
Danlami Abubakar Maikano is a political affairs commentator. He wrote from Bokkoto Quarters, Dutse, Jigawa state and can be reached via email: danlamimaikano@gmail.com
