Seven Years of Sterling Leadership: Comrade Aisha Suleiman’s Footprints in KIPL

By: Goodluck E. Adubazi, Abuja. 

Colin Powell was right when he said, “Great leaders are always great simplifiers.” These words aptly describe Comrade Aisha Suleiman’s remarkable leadership during her seven years as the Managing Director of Kogi Investments and Property Limited (KIPL).  

Comrade Aisha Suleiman’s Impressive Leadership Journey 

Comrade Aisha Suleiman’s invaluable contributions and lasting impact at KIPL began in 2017 when the then Governor of Kogi State, His Excellency Alhaji Yahaya Adoza Bello, appointed her as the first woman to lead the agency. Her appointment was a testament to the governor’s commitment to excellence and innovation in Kogi State.  

After a five-year tenure marked by exceptional accomplishments, Governor Bello revalidated her appointment for continuity. Under her stewardship, KIPL transformed into a model agency, leaving an indelible mark on public administration in Kogi State.  

Leadership Style and Achievements

Comrade Suleiman exemplified the leadership philosophy of Sheryl Sandberg, who stated, “Leadership is about making others better as a result of your presence and making sure that impact lasts in your absence.” For seven years, Suleiman embodied this ideal, creating sustainable systems and fostering a culture of excellence at KIPL.  

A versatile administrator with over 20 years of experience in organizational management, social welfare, and strategic planning, Suleiman is renowned for her problem-solving abilities, innovative strategies, and exceptional leadership.  

Areas of Expertise 

Comrade Suleiman’s core competencies include:  

– Strategic leadership and governance  

– Public administration and policy implementation  

– Community development and social welfare  

– Organizational restructuring and asset optimization  

– Conflict resolution and negotiations  

– Effective communication and stakeholder engagement  

– Project management and implementation  

– Capacity building and mentorship  

Educational Background

Comrade Aisha Suleiman’s academic journey is a testament to her dedication to self-improvement. A former Head Girl and MSS President at Government Girls Secondary School, Azare, Bauchi State, she earned her SSCE in 1990. She later obtained a Bachelor’s degree in International Studies from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, in 1999. Currently, she is pursuing a Master’s degree in Public Administration at the same institution.  

Additionally, she holds a certificate in Data Processing from Malib Computer Training Institute, Abuja (1996), further enhancing her proficiency as a data analyst.  

Transformative Leadership at KIPL (2017–2024)

When Comrade Suleiman assumed office in September 2017, she inherited an agency plagued by operational challenges, including poor staff morale, abandoned projects, and financial debts. Through her visionary leadership, she revitalized KIPL and restored its credibility.  

Key Achievements

1. Revenue Generation:  

   – Initiated the KIPL Table Water factory project to boost revenue.  

   – Cleared KIPL’s outstanding debts, including unremitted VAT deductions owed to the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS).  

2. Asset Recovery and Optimization:  

   – Recovered abandoned assets, such as the Felele Housing Estate, and revamped them for productive use.  

   – Procured new plots of land in Zaria and Lagos for KIPL’s expansion.  

   – Facilitated the recovery of state-owned properties through legal means.  

3. Infrastructure Development:  

   – Renovated Kogi State Liaison Office in Kaduna into a modern facility.  

   – Initiated the construction of estates and commercial properties in Lokoja and Kaduna.  

4. Innovative Partnerships:

   – Signed an MoU with MCdream Concept for a shopping mall in Lagos.  

   – Collaborated with international investors for agro-commercial projects and industrial developments in Kogi State.  

5. Operational Excellence: 

   – Regularized KIPL’s registration with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) under the Company and Allied Matters Act (2020).  

   – Cleared a backlog of audits, ensuring compliance with statutory requirements. 

Impact on Staff and Stakeholders  

Comrade Suleiman transformed KIPL from a struggling agency into a self-sustaining entity. She empowered her team, created a conducive work environment, and fostered a culture of accountability.  

Legacy and Vision

Comrade Suleiman leaves behind a legacy of transformation and innovation. Her plans for an investment summit and other initiatives demonstrate her forward-thinking approach. Today, KIPL stands as a testament to her sterling leadership, and the people of Kogi State remain the beneficiaries of her efforts.  

All hail Comrade Aisha Suleiman—a leader par excellence, a visionary, and a role model for generations to come.

Kogi office in Kaduna : Before.Kogi Investment and Property Limited footprints in Felele, Kogi state.