Remembering Alhaji Umaru Shinkafi: A Pillar of Nigeria’s Leadership
Alhaji Umaru Shinkafi OFR, known as Marafan Sokoto, stands out as one of Nigeria’s most distinguished leaders and elder statesmen. His influence as a respected lawyer and insightful police officer was pivotal; he led the now-defunct Nigerian Security Service (NSO), the nation’s primary intelligence agency, during President Shehu Shagari’s administration in 1979.
Pioneering Nigeria’s Intelligence Framework
Shinkafi is recognized as the architect of Nigeria’s three-tier intelligence framework, overseeing the establishment of the Department of State Services (DSS), the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), and the Defence Intelligence Agency (DMI). These agencies were created based on recommendations from a commission he chaired under General Ibrahim Babangida’s rule.
Presidential Aspirations and Political Mentorship
In 1992, Shinkafi pursued the presidency as the candidate for the now-defunct National Republican Convention (NRC), narrowly losing to Alhaji Adam Chiroma, Madakin Fika, and a former Minister in Shehu Shagari’s government. I had the distinct honor of cultivating a close relationship with Marafan, who acted as both a mentor and a father figure to me.
A Personal Connection to Politics
My late father, Chief Remilekun Fani-Kayode—former Deputy Prime Minister of the Western Region—introduced me to Shinkafi in 1990, welcoming me into politics following the Babangida administration’s lift on political restrictions. Throughout this journey, individuals like Dr. Hamed Kusamotu and General Khalil Alilu provided invaluable guidance, culminating in my appointment as special assistant to Shinkafi during his presidential campaign.
Honoring a Legacy
Tragically, Marafan passed away in 2016, leaving behind a legacy that remained unfilled for several years. It was a heartening moment when, in 2024, His Holiness the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammadu Saad Abubakar III, bestowed the title upon Senator Abdul Aziz Yari, former Governor of Zamfara State. As a close associate and son-in-law of the late Marafan, Yari is undoubtedly deserving of this honor.
A Bridge Between Regions
Shinkafi is remembered for his strong leadership and efforts to foster enduring relationships between the North and Southwest of Nigeria. He recognized that unity was essential for national stability and invested considerable effort in cultivating these connections, leaving a legacy that many continue to admire.
Support for the New Leadership
As someone honored with the traditional title of Sadaukin Shinkafi, I fully support our new Marafan, Senator Yari, and am committed to assisting him in furthering the noble vision established by his predecessors. Our collective focus has evolved beyond political affiliation into a familial bond reinforced by the traditional institutions of the Caliphate.
As I reflect on our shared memories of the late Marafan, I offer my heartfelt wishes for success in Senator Yari’s endeavors. May God bless him, the people of Zamfara State, and our beloved country Nigeria.
(The author, Chief Femi Fani-Kayode, is the Nigeria Ambassador-elect to South Africa and a former minister of Culture, Tourism, and Aviation. He has also served as Special Assistant and Press Secretary to President Olusegun Obasanjo.)
