Want to Be Seen? How Bauchi Resident Used a Ram to Get the Nation’s Attention

By Mubarak Musa

As the countdown to Eid-el-Kabir begins, a symbolic gesture from a Bauchi resident is making waves—one that is not only heartfelt but cleverly strategic.

Khamis Musa Darazo, a loyal supporter of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has donated a Sallah ram to the President in appreciation for the recent approval of the Kolmani Oil License. At first glance, this may seem like a simple act of gratitude. But a closer look reveals a playbook that aspiring public figures and ambitious businessmen might want to take notes from.

The Kolmani Oil License, recently greenlit by President Tinubu, paves the way for the Kolmani Integrated Development Project—a multibillion-dollar oil exploration project spanning Bauchi and Gombe States. It’s a game-changer for Northern Nigeria. And Khamis, a man with no official title or office, has placed himself in the national conversation through a well-timed act of loyalty.

This is not his first public show of devotion. During the last election, Khamis famously gave up his NYSC allowance to support Tinubu’s campaign. He even named his daughter after the President’s late mother. Now, with a single ram and a press briefing, he’s once again in the spotlight—front page in Bauchi and trending online.

“I am forever grateful to President Tinubu for this opportunity,” Khamis told journalists. “The Kolmani Oil License will bring more business opportunities to the North and Nigeria at large. Donating a Sallah ram is my way of saying thank you.”

But is it just gratitude? Or is this a masterclass in strategic visibility?

For businessmen seeking relevance, the lesson is clear: Timing and symbolism matter. While many are chasing billboards and media consultants, Khamis carried a ram—and captured the moment. In a region poised for economic boom, he chose to align himself visibly and directly with progress. In doing so, he not only expressed thanks but positioned himself as a patriotic figure closely tied to a national success story.

As Eid approaches, Khamis prepares to deliver the ram. And while the meat may feed a few, the message feeds an image—one that says, “I’m here, I’m grateful, and I believe in Nigeria.”

For the savvy entrepreneur or rising political figure wondering how to be noticed: maybe the question isn't what you’re selling but how you’re showing up.

After all, if you really want to help, you can. But why carry water back to the wheel when one ram can carry your name straight to the Villa?