Dignitaries, royal fathers, politicians, scholars, and community leaders gathered at the Usman Zumunta Musa Legacy Summit and the Launch of the Zumunta Water Relief Initiative, held on Saturday, January 4, 2025, at the Eliel Center in Jos. Organized by the Usman Zumunta Musa Foundation, the event celebrated the life and legacy of the late Rt. Hon. Usman Zumunta Musa, former Deputy Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly, whose contributions to leadership and community development continue to inspire.
Themed “Sustaining a Legacy of Service: Inspiring Leadership and Transforming Communities,” the summit reflected on the enduring values of the late Usman Zumunta Musa and explored strategies for advancing leadership and community development.
Delivering his remarks, Rt. Hon. Yusuf Adamu Gagdi, Member of the House of Representatives for Pankshin/Kanke/Kanam Federal Constituency and Chairman of the House Committee on Navy, described the late Zumunta Musa as not just a mentor but a father figure who shaped his political journey. “His life embodied the virtues of leadership, service, and selflessness. This event is a celebration of his legacy and the lessons he left for us to emulate,” Gagdi stated.
Prof. Chris Kwaja, delivering the keynote address, spoke extensively on the legacy of the late leader, emphasizing the transformative impact of his leadership and service. “Usman Zumunta Musa’s life was defined by a commitment to empower others and foster unity, regardless of religion, gender, or political affiliation. His legacy challenges us to live purposefully and dedicate ourselves to the betterment of our communities,” Kwaja noted.
Prof. Kwaja also called on Plateau’s political leaders to embrace the philosophy of “politics without bitterness,” a principle exemplified by the late Zumunta Musa. “Our state needs a politics that fosters love, togetherness, and the collective good,” he added.
The guest speaker, Dr. Sani Mu’azu, focused on the critical role of youth in community development. Speaking on the topic “Youth Engagement in Community Development: A Path to Sustainable Growth,” Dr. Mu’azu highlighted the importance of empowering young people to lead initiatives that transform their communities.
“Youth are the cornerstone of any progressive society. Through deliberate engagement, we can harness their vitality and creativity to address pressing challenges and build a sustainable future,” he said. Dr. Mu’azu praised Zakiya Musa, the daughter of the late Zumunta Musa, for her resilience in founding the Zumunta Water Relief Initiative, describing her as a testament to the potential of young leaders.
Dr. Jemchang Fabong delivered a passionate address on the Usman Zumunta Musa Foundation and its approach to creating lasting impact. He emphasized the importance of community involvement, collaboration, and long-term vision in sustaining the legacy of the late Zumunta Musa.
“In my opinion, the life and times of our father, the late Usman Zumunta Musa, encapsulated this topic very well. He deeply understood what sustainable service and impact meant, and he left legacies that have shaped our world as a people,” Fabong said.
The summit reached its climax with the official launch of the Zumunta Water Relief Initiative, a project aimed at providing clean and sustainable water solutions to underserved communities.
His Royal Highness Mu’azu Mohammad Muhammad II, Emir of Kanam and Chairman of the Kanam Traditional Council of Chiefs, officially launched the initiative, calling it a continuation of Usman Zumunta Musa’s commitment to improving lives. “Access to clean water is a basic human right, yet many of our communities still struggle. This initiative embodies the values of compassion and service that defined Zumunta Musa’s life,” the Emir stated.
The initiative seeks to construct boreholes, install water purification systems, and empower local communities with tools for effective water management. The Emir urged stakeholders, donors, and volunteers to join in ensuring the success of the project.
The event witnessed significant commitments, including a donation of ₦5 million and a pledge to dig 10 boreholes by Rt. Hon. Yusuf Adamu Gagdi, on behalf of the Gagdi Support Foundation and Laylah’s Way.
The Usman Zumunta Musa Legacy Summit served not only as a tribute to a man who dedicated his life to service but also as a platform to inspire current and future leaders. Attendees were reminded of the enduring impact of selfless leadership and the power of community-driven initiatives.
As the event concluded, there was a collective call for unity, compassion, and sustained efforts to build a Plateau State where everyone thrives. In the words of Prof. Chris Kwaja, “The legacy of Usman Zumunta Musa challenges us to ask: What will be our story? How will we transform lives and communities for the better?”
Through the summit and the launch of the Water Relief Initiative, the legacy of Usman Zumunta Musa lives on, inspiring hope and action for generations to come.
