By Jako Keke, February 5, 2026.
Honourable Kallamu Alhamdu lived a life defined by grassroots leadership, public service, and deep community commitment, leaving behind a legacy that continues to resonate across Zing Local Government Area and Taraba State at large. His journey through local governance, state administration, and community development reflects the story of a man widely regarded as a servant leader and bridge builder.
Hon. Kallamu rose to prominence through local government administration, earning the trust and respect of his colleagues and constituents. He served as Deputy Chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) between 2012 and 2013, before later emerging as Chairman of ALGON, Taraba State Chapter from 2013 to 2015. His tenure in ALGON was marked by strong advocacy for local government autonomy, improved service delivery, and inter-council collaboration.
His performance at the grassroots opened doors to state-level responsibilities. He was privileged to serve under the administration of former Governor Arc. Darius Dickson Ishaku, first as Senior Special Assistant between 2016 and 2018. In recognition of his dedication and administrative competence, he was later appointed Special Adviser from 2018 to 2019 and again served concurrently as Special Adviser from 2019 to 2021. Within the same government, he was subsequently appointed Honourable Commissioner for Rural and Community Development in 2021 a role that aligned closely with his passion for rural transformation and community-centered governance.
Known for his practical approach to leadership and voter engagement, Hon. Kallamu was again appointed Special Adviser on Voter Outreach by Governor Dr. Agbu Kefas in May 2024. However, driven by his desire to return directly to elective grassroots politics, he resigned the appointment in October 2024 to contest a local government election a move associates described as consistent with his lifelong belief in people-oriented leadership.
Beyond formal offices, Hon. Kallamu’s influence extended into numerous political, governmental, intergovernmental, church, and community committees.
He was widely recognized for humanitarian services and received multiple awards and accolades from churches, local communities, corporate bodies, and both national and international organizations. Those honours reflected his reputation as a man committed not only to governance but also to social welfare and human development.
His exposure and engagements were not limited to Nigeria. During his lifetime, he visited several countries, including the United States of America, South Africa, Israel, France, the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, and Ghana, among others. These visits broadened his perspectives on governance, development models, and community partnerships.
In recognition of his contributions to his people and traditional institutions, the late Hon. Kallamu was conferred with a traditional title by the Kpanti Zing, Alhaji Engr. Ibrahim Abbas Sambo, the Sarkin Matasan Zing. The honour underscored his standing not just as a political figure but also as a respected son of the soil.
His final days were marked by health challenges.
He battled illness beginning in late 2024, recovered briefly, and later fell ill again in 2025. With support from family members, friends, and well-wishers, efforts were made to secure advanced medical care. He was eventually taken to the Federal Medical Centre, Jabi, Abuja, where he passed on January 27, 2026.
Tributes that followed his passing consistently described him as approachable, community-driven, and deeply invested in public good.
Colleagues recall a leader who preferred consensus over conflict and service over status. Community members remember a benefactor and advocate. Political associates point to a strategist grounded in grassroots realities.
The life and times of Hon. Kallamu Alhamdu stand as a portrait of enduring local leadership one rooted in service, strengthened by experience, and remembered with respect. His contributions to local governance and rural development remain a reference point for emerging leaders across Taraba State.
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