Former Chairman of Kumbotso Local Government Area in Kano State, Abdullahi Gali Shitu, popularly known as Comrade Abdullahi Gali Basaf, has returned to his tailoring business after leaving office following his defeat in the local government elections.
Basaf, who served as chairman until March 2026, said his decision to resume tailoring was driven by his belief that skilled trades provide more stability than politics.
According to him, every politician should have a profession or business that can provide a steady source of income, while politics should be seen as an opportunity to serve the people rather than a lifelong career.
He explained that tailoring had always been the backbone of his finances, even while he was actively involved in politics, noting that the business helped fund his political activities and campaigns.
Basaf currently trains about 20 apprentices and revealed plans to expand his business into a modern garment company capable of employing at least 50 people. He said his vision is to create jobs while contributing to the country’s economy.
The former council chairman stressed that his return to tailoring was intentional, adding that he wants young Nigerians to understand that there is dignity in vocational skills and that they should embrace and modernize their trades.
He encouraged young people to value their professions instead of depending solely on politics, emphasizing that a trade offers long-term financial security and independence.
Despite holding both Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Political Science and having the qualifications for white-collar employment, Basaf said tailoring remains his passion and the profession through which he hopes to make a lasting impact.
He described tailoring as a respectable profession, arguing that political positions are temporary while a skilled trade can provide lifelong support for individuals and their families.
Basaf added that his long-term ambition is to establish a garment manufacturing company capable of competing with international clothing factories.
His decision has also sparked conversations about the importance of self-reliance, with many viewing it as a reminder that public office should be about service, while sustainable careers and businesses provide lasting security beyond politics.
