By Emmanuel Awari-Jalingo
A philanthropist Chief Bulus Maiyaki, in his efforts to provide services to the people, has taken people – oriented projects to the grassroots.
The philanthropist also known as Makama Donga, has stirred excitement and relief the people at the grassroots as he continues to stand out as a model of people-oriented leadership, distinguished by a rare commitment to projects that directly touch lives at the grassroots.
Chief Maiyaki known for his uncanny ability to initiate and execute projects that will have long term impact on the people across different spheres of life.
Some of the projects include the provision of electricity transformers, solar street lights, solar home systems, and the rehabilitation of critical water infrastructure different communities.
In a bid to tackle the problem of water scarcity and waterborne disease, Makama Donga embarked on the rehabilitation of boreholes in Donga Local Government Area, including previously abandoned and non-functional ones.
One of the Boreholes drilled at Gyatta’aure Ward of Donga local government area, serves over 300 households, putting an end to the exorbitant cost of portable water in the area,
According to him, the intervention is strategically aimed at cushioning the effects of the current acute water scarcity, ensuring access to potable water for residents, and significantly reducing the risk of water-borne diseases such as cholera in the area.
He pointed out that access to safe water is fundamental to public health, education, and economic productivity. Life itself revolves around water and so it’s importance cannot be overemphasized.
‘By restoring these water sources, we are not only bringing solutions to existing problems but we have also demonstrated a clear understanding of the everyday needs of the people and a commitment to sustainable solutions” he said.
He also facilitated the distribution of Ten Transformers across Southern Taraba through his office as Director of Procurement, Rural Electrification Agency, Abuja, thereby extending electrification of several villages across the zone.
Stakeholders of the community who spoke to our correspondent in Donga described Dr. Bulus Maiyaki’s philanthropic gestures as uncommon.
They praised his inclusive leadership style and prompt responsiveness to grassroots needs.
One of the beneficiaries, Mallam Sanusi Muhammed, said:
“For decades, several politicians who represented Donga at state and federal levels, including the Senate, failed to make tangible impacts through people-driven projects.
“It was only with the emergence of Makama Donga that communities began to witness interventions with a clear human face—projects that directly address basic needs and restore dignity to the masses – he said.
Stakeholders also observed that Makama is someone that, if chosen to represent the people in any elective office he would return to justify the people’s mandate with meaningful infrastructures that has direct impact on the grassroot people.
Recently, the Catholic Bishop of the Diocese of Wukari, Most Rev. Mark Maigida Nzukwein, blessed Dr. Bulus Maiyaki, and urged members of the Catholic community to support his political aspiration ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The Bishop made this known during the New Year thanksgiving service held at St. John Parish in Afogba, Donga Local Government Area of Taraba State.
Bishop Nzukwein described Dr. Maiyaki as a distinguished philanthropist whose impact cuts across religious, ethnic, and political lines, noting that his consistent service to humanity reflects values worthy of public leadership.
“Dr. Maiyaki’s long-standing commitment to education support, youth empowerment, community development, and assistance to the vulnerable has earned him respect across communities in Taraba State.
“Leadership should be entrusted to individuals with proven character, compassion, and a track record of selfless service, qualities which Dr. Maiyaki has demonstrated over the years – he said.
The Bishop offered prayers for divine guidance, protection, and wisdom for Dr. Maiyaki, openly endorsing his political course and encouraging the faithful to support leaders who prioritize the common good, peace, and inclusive development.
In his remark, Chief Maiyaki thanked the Bishop for offering special prayer on him in the New year and also promised to continue to work with critical stakeholders in Donga to ensure the return of peace in the communities affected by crisis.
He identified injustice as the cause of the crisis in the area, has pledged to ensure fairness, equity and justice if elected to represent the people in the National Assembly.
Also Speaking, The Traditional leader of Tiv in Donga, Chief Sabastine Uma thanked Maiyaki for the provision of solar street lights, home solar system, rice distribution as well as Job placements for Tiv youths in the area, adding that the gesture has demonstrated that he is a leader of all irrespective of their differences in ethnic inclinations, and that the Tiv community would not hesitate to support his political course when need arises.
Our correspondent observers that Dr. Maiyaki’s growing acceptance is tied to his grassroots engagement, advocacy for equitable representation, support for education and healthcare initiatives, and consistent calls for unity and peaceful coexistence.
Supporters said that these qualities position of Chief Maiyaki, as credible candidate, capable of advancing people-centered policies and fostering sustainable development if elected in 2027.
Beyond Donga, Dr. Maiyaki’s interventions across the Southern Senatorial Zone have reinforced his reputation as a leader with vision, compassion, and execution capacity. His growing footprint in community development is widely seen as a testament to his leadership prowess and mass-oriented philosophy.
All these were responsible to why the people of Donga, Takum and Ussa Local Government Areas have consistently called on Dr. Bulus Maiyaki to come and contest for the House of Representatives under the federal constituency come 2027.