by Nigerian News24 Correspondents
At a time when people-oriented grassroots leadership is increasingly rare, the Village Head of Eppa in Mokwa Local Government Area of Niger State, Malam Abbas Mohammed Ishaq, has distinguished himself through unprecedented community-driven development.
Barely a year into office, the traditional ruler has mobilised his people and used proceeds from Eppa’s thriving farming business to execute critical projects worth more than N100 million. Instead of waiting for government intervention, Malam Ishaq rallied farmers, who paid royalties from their produce, and channelled the funds into transformative initiatives.
With the contributions, the village head oversaw the construction of six classroom blocks with offices, completed an abandoned two-classroom block, built a healthcare clinic, established a vigilante office, and erected a new palace. All projects were executed through direct labour in record time.
The commissioning of the projects drew large crowds from Eppa and surrounding communities, many of whom initially doubted the developments were community-funded. The ceremony was marked with celebrations as dignitaries, including Nda Lele Mokwa, Alhaji Shaba Mohammed Aliyu, Baba Ndashe of Raba, Umar Mohammed Twsako, and the Secretary of Mokwa LGA, Malam Dauda Liman, officially inaugurated the facilities.
Speaking at the event, the dignitaries described the initiative as visionary and commendable, urging other leaders and communities to emulate Eppa’s example in complementing government’s efforts. Liman, who represented the council chairman, praised Malam Ishaq for embarking on projects that directly impact the lives of rural residents, stressing that government alone cannot meet all development needs.
In his address, Malam Ishaq highlighted the unity and diversity of Eppa, a 500-year-old community of about 900 registered voters where indigenes and settlers from neighbouring states live as farmers. He thanked his people for their trust and support, assuring them of more projects, including plans for a guest house and a corpers’ lodge.
However, the village head also lamented the recent Mokwa flooding, which claimed over 250 lives, destroyed properties, and washed away two bridges connecting Eppa to nearby communities. He appealed to the Niger State Government to urgently rebuild the bridges to revive farming, schooling, and economic activities.
Villagers expressed joy and admiration for the projects, hailing the transparency and commitment of their leader. One resident, Alhaji Abubakar Mohammed, said the initiative showed how judicious use of community funds could inspire voluntary tax payments and grassroots development. Another, Baba Alhaji, pledged continued support through royalties to enable more progress.
The story of Malam Abbas Mohammed Ishaq stands as a rare example of what honest and visionary grassroots leadership can achieve. His model, if replicated, could significantly transform rural communities across Nigeria.