By Abdulrashid Sani (PhD)
Hon. (Dr) Abdulmalik Zubairu Zanna Bungudu, Member of the House of Representatives representing Maru/Bungudu Federal Constituency of Zamfara State, and popularly known as the Chief Mayegun of Ikare-Akoko Kingdom, marks a defining presence in Zamfara’s evolving political landscape. Among the youth and the wider electorate, he is increasingly recognised not just as a legislator but as a symbol of transparent leadership and progressive ideals. Through mentoring emerging leaders and advancing inclusive policies, Zanna is helping to shape a new era of public service grounded in vision and accountability. Hon. Zanna’s philosophy is simple yet powerful: genuine development must involve every citizen. He has long maintained that progress is sustainable only when it is built on unity, inclusivity, and engagement. By prioritising underrepresented voices and advocating equitable governance, Zanna has championed a model of leadership that empowers communities and renews hope.
As Chief Mayegun of Ikare-Akoko Kingdom, his reputation for promoting rural development, youth inclusion, and women’s empowerment is well established. His grassroots-driven approach focuses on access to opportunity and long-term development. He believes that public office must reflect the aspirations of the people—an ethos that continues to define his leadership style. Zanna’s deep connection with his constituents is well known. Whether through regular town hall meetings, spontaneous market visits, or informal conversations under village trees, he has maintained an open line of communication with the people he represents. This rare authenticity has contributed significantly to his success in the legislature and enhanced his profile as a national figure of integrity and service. Currently serving in the House of Representatives, Hon. Abdulmalik Zubairu Zanna was honoured with the prestigious traditional title of “Chief Mayegun of Ikare-Akoko Kingdom” by Oba Akadri Saliu Momoh in Ondo State. This recognition reflects his outstanding contributions to public service and national development, earning him respect across regional and partisan lines.
HALLMARKS OF LEGISLATIVE EXCELLENCE
In the National Assembly, Hon. Zanna has consistently distinguished himself as a legislator of uncommon commitment and foresight. His legislative portfolio reflects a deliberate effort to address systemic issues and bring about structural reforms for national benefit.
In healthcare and education, Zanna has sponsored and supported key legislation including the Nursing and Midwifery (Amendment) Bill, 2023, the Federal College of Nursing and Health Bill, 2023, and the Federal University Gusau Teaching Hospital (Establishment) Bill, 2025, all aimed at strengthening the health system and expanding access to training institutions. He also contributed significantly to the National Teachers’ Institute (Amendment) Bill, 2023, and the Federal College of Adult and Non-Formal Education, Maru Bill, both targeted at promoting lifelong learning and inclusive education.
Beyond legislative interventions, Zanna’s direct educational support is unparalleled. His scholarship and sponsorship programmes, worth millions of naira, cut across his constituency, covering secondary, tertiary, and professional education for thousands of students. This massive investment in human capital has opened life-changing opportunities for many indigent youths, reinforcing his belief that education is the most powerful tool for liberation and progress.
To address socio-economic challenges, Zanna advanced the National Social Welfare Bill, 2023, the Nigeria Food Security Bill, and the National Vocational Centre Bill. These are aimed at reducing poverty, ensuring food sustainability, and improving employability. His legislative work in entrepreneurship is particularly noteworthy, including the Chartered Institute of Entrepreneurs and Inventors Bill and the Association of Researchers and Inventors of Nigeria Bill, which promote innovation through strong institutional frameworks.
On the security front, his amendments to the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps Act and the Nigerian Defence Academy Act showcase a proactive stance on national safety and defence reform. His sponsorship of the Technology Kotorkoshi Bill and the Federal Institute of Technology and Entrepreneurship Bill highlights his belief in vocational training as a key strategy for youth empowerment and national advancement. This extensive legislative footprint is more than a catalogue of bills; it is a blueprint for development. It reflects Zanna’s foresight, depth, and genuine desire to see Nigeria work better for all, especially the most vulnerable. His record speaks directly to the needs of his constituents and the broader Nigerian populace.
As Zamfara and Nigeria continue to face complex challenges, ranging from leadership deficit and insecurity to economic disparity, the need for principled, forward-looking leadership has never been greater. Hon. Zanna’s work in parliament, his grassroots connection, and his unwavering focus on service delivery position him as a rare public servant in today’s political climate. His people-oriented leadership surpasses that of many serving senators and governors, proving that public service is about impact, not just rank. His ability to unify across political and cultural divides, embrace reform, and prioritise people over politics continues to earn him admiration across the country. Rather than being driven by personal ambition, his career reflects a steady commitment to empowering communities, strengthening institutions, and building a Nigeria that works for everyone. In a time that demands integrity, compassion, and bold ideas, Hon. (Dr) Abdulmalik Zubairu Zanna Bungudu stands as a beacon of hope, an example of what transformative public service can and should look like.
Abdulrashid Sani, PhD, is a Kaduna-based political and public affairs analyst. He can be reached at 0703 616 4831.