By Maduabuchi Nmeribeh/Gumel
On Saturday, March 21, 2026, a grand reception was held in honour of Alhaji Mohammed Usaini Gumel, who recently retired as Deputy Inspector-General (DIG) of Police after 30 years of meritorious service to his fatherland. On that day, the noble family of Alhaji Abba Ani of Gumel, Jigawa State, hosted dignitaries from all walks of life who travelled from far and near to celebrate DIG Gumel (rtd)—a doyen of community policing who served Nigeria with distinction as a refined, gentle, and highly professional police chief.
The event, held at the Ali Sa’adu Birnin Kudu Conference Hall of Jigawa State College of Education, Gumel, was filled to capacity. It was both a celebration of his elevation to the rank of Deputy Inspector-General of Police and a reflection on his remarkable retirement shortly thereafter. The occasion honoured his 30-year career in the Nigeria Police Force, distinguished by pioneering community policing initiatives, the rehabilitation of over 700 youths formerly involved in criminal activities in Kano, and the establishment of a technology-driven police division on Dala Hills—transforming a crime hotspot into a security hub.
Given his impressive achievements across the various states where he served as a crime-buster, the celebration became a moment of collective pride for the people of Gumel. Governor Malam Umar Namadi of Jigawa State, who attended as Special Guest of Honour, joined family members, friends, colleagues, and well-wishers in celebrating what he described as a remarkable milestone.
According to the governor:
“Public service at this level is not merely about holding office; it is about sacrifice, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to protecting lives and preserving peace. Over the course of his distinguished career, DIG Mohammed Usaini Gumel has demonstrated exceptional professionalism, integrity, and leadership.”
He further noted that Gumel’s contributions to intelligence-led policing, community safety initiatives, and national security coordination reflect a deep understanding of the responsibilities entrusted to law enforcement institutions. For Jigawa State and the Gumel Emirate, he said, the occasion represented not just a personal celebration but a shared pride in a son of the soil whose achievements exemplify discipline, hard work, and service to humanity.
Governor Namadi also commended the Aba’ari family for instilling the values that shaped Gumel’s journey, emphasizing that strong families remain the foundation of responsible leadership and national development. He expressed confidence that, even in retirement, Gumel’s experience and wisdom would continue to contribute meaningfully to national development and institutional strengthening.
Indeed, DIG Gumel’s achievements earned him recognition from traditional rulers, international partners such as the UK Metropolitan Police, and prestigious awards including Nigerian Police Community Policing Advocate of the Year (2024). His leadership philosophy—anchored on community engagement, intelligence-led policing, and technology integration—has made him a model for effective policing.
A scholar per excellence, DIG Gumel (rtd) used the occasion to reflect on his 30-year journey of honour, faith, and service to Nigeria and the Nigeria Police Force. In an emotional speech, he described his career as a path shaped by sacrifice, integrity, and divine guidance.
“Thirty years ago, when I enlisted in the Nigeria Police Force, I could not clearly see the road ahead,” he said. “What guided me was a simple but powerful calling: to serve with integrity, faith, and unwavering commitment.”
He traced his academic journey from Government Secondary School, Karaye, to the Advanced Teachers College, Gumel (affiliated with Bayero University Kano), where he earned a National Certificate of Education. He later obtained a Bachelor of Education from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, and a Master of Technology from the Federal University of Technology, Minna.
“Education disciplined my mind, and policing disciplined my character,” he noted.
From his early training at the Nigeria Police Academy (1992–1994) to various operational and strategic postings across the Federal Capital Territory, Niger, Kwara, Sokoto, and Kano States, Gumel described a career enriched by diverse experiences.
As Commissioner of Police in Sokoto State, he tackled serious security challenges, including armed robbery and organized crime, through intelligence-led policing and strong collaboration with traditional and community leaders. In Kano, he led one of the most complex assignments of his career, where community policing initiatives helped rehabilitate over 700 youths previously involved in crime.
“For me, saving a life is greater than arresting one,” he said.
He also highlighted his role in ensuring peaceful conduct during the 2023 Kano governorship elections and managing post-election tensions, as well as navigating the Kano Emirate developments in 2024 with professionalism and restraint.
“Peace does not occur by chance. It requires preparation, patience, professionalism, and prayer,” he emphasized.
His service extended beyond Nigeria. In 2011, he served as Police Unit Commander with the United Nations Mission in Liberia (UNMIL). He later contributed to regional stability through ECOWAS, including peace support operations in Guinea-Bissau and The Gambia.
In recognition of his international collaboration, he received commendation from the United Kingdom Metropolitan Police Service.
Throughout his career, Gumel maintained a strong commitment to strengthening training standards, accountability, and trust between the police and the public. Being named Community Policing Advocate of the Year (2024) and Community Policing Ambassador, he said, was humbling—but the greatest reward remained restored public trust.
Reflecting on his personal life, he paid tribute to his family:
“Behind every posting was a family that adjusted. Behind every crisis was a family that prayed.”
He described his family as his greatest source of strength and acknowledged their sacrifices throughout his career.
Summarizing lessons from three decades of service, he stated:
- Integrity is the highest medal
- Education strengthens leadership
- Peace is greater than force
- Rehabilitation is more powerful than punishment
- Family is the true command centre of strength
Addressing younger generations, he urged them to pursue excellence, guard their integrity, and let character define their lives.
The ceremonial citation, delivered by Hon. Justice Aliyu Babandi Abubakar Gumel (CFR), Life Bencher and Justice of the Court of Appeal, captured the essence of the occasion. He described DIG Gumel as a seasoned and accomplished officer whose career exemplifies discipline, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to national and international security.
The event drew an array of dignitaries, including Governor Umar Namadi of Jigawa State, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State, the Emir of Gumel, Dr. Ahmed Muhammad Sani II, senior police officers, legislators, and numerous distinguished personalities from across Nigeria.
As the celebration concluded, one message stood clear: for Retired DIG Mohammed Usaini Gumel, the journey was not merely about rank or years of service—but about impact, purpose, and a lasting legacy of honour.
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