By Chinedu Nsofor
Hon. Sani Mohammed Sha’aban, known for his leadership, philanthropy, and influence in business and politics, is a distinguished figure from Zaria, Kaduna State.
Born on August 24, 1958, in the historic city of Zaria, Sha’aban rose from modest beginnings to become a reputable leader and successful entrepreneur, widely respected for his commitment to public service, social welfare, and economic development.
He started his career as a clerk at Union Bank in 1977 and became a sales accountant at the Nigerian Mining Corporation in 1978.
His journey exemplifies resilience, determination, and an unwavering dedication to societal progress.
Early Life and Education
Sha’aban began his academic journey at Nurul-Huda L.E.A Primary School, Tudun Wada, Zaria, where he obtained his first School Leaving Certificate in 1973.
He pursued secondary education at Government Commercial College, Zaria, completing his studies in 1978. Driven by an insatiable thirst for knowledge, he continued his studies at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, obtaining a Diploma in Accounting in 1980.
Furthering his education abroad, he attended South-West London College and the London School of Accountancy, earning his credentials from the Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators (ICSA) with a specialization in Financial Accounting.
Sha’aban is also a member of the Nigerian Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators, making him one of the few young African professionals of his time to achieve such qualifications.
Business Ventures
Hon. Sha’aban has built a formidable business empire under the Tulip Group of Companies. He serves as Chairman/CEO of Shenshui Oil & Gas Limited and Shenshui Construction Company, a joint Nigerian-Chinese venture specializing in water treatment, road construction, and various civil engineering projects. His business interests span multiple industries, including shipping, food production, manufacturing, and construction.
He has led several prominent businesses, including Nexus Global Ltd., and serves on the boards of various international and domestic companies. Under Hon. Sha’aban’s leadership, key enterprises include Ocean Link, a Nigerian-owned shipping company; Tulip Bakery and Confectionery, a well-established chain with branches across Nigeria; Gandu Project Construction and Civil Engineering Company Limited; and Shenshui Construction Company, a successful partnership with China’s ZHEGIAG ZONGXIN Construction Group specializing in nationwide infrastructure projects.
Sha’aban’s leadership extends beyond Nigeria. Since 2015, he has chaired the Casablanca Industrial Company, based in Jordan, which partners with international firms to deliver cutting-edge defense technology and training services.
Political Career and Contributions
Hon. Sani Mohammed Sha’aban is a prominent Nigerian politician and business leader, known for his dedication to national development and his influential role in Nigerian governance. He was the pioneer Chairman of the House Committee on PENCOM and was instrumental in the enactment of the PENCOM Act of 2004, a landmark reform that transformed Nigeria’s pension industry.
He also served on committees addressing Petroleum Resources, Science and Technology, and Public Accounts, actively advocating for industrial growth across ECOWAS nations. Sha’aban was a founding figure of the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP) and later played a significant role in establishing the All Progressives Congress (APC). He contested for the governorship of Kaduna State in 2007 under ANPP and later, in 2011, as the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) candidate, demonstrating his enduring commitment to democratic integrity and reform.
Awards and Recognition
Hon. Sani Sha’aban has been widely recognized for his dedication to humanitarian service and leadership, receiving numerous awards and honors throughout his career.
These include his Fellowship with the Professional Institute of Nigeria (2006), his appointment as Patron and Unity Ambassador of the Nigeria Youth Organization (2000), and his designation as Ambassador to African Affairs in Nigeria by the International Human Rights Commission. In 2016, he was conferred the esteemed traditional title of Dan Buram Zazzau by the Zazzau Emirate Council.
He was also conferred the traditional title of Barden Keffi by the Emir of Keffi. Additionally, he received the Chief Marshall Peace Award from the Nigerian Police Force, the Merit Award for Excellence as an Icon of Humanitarian Service by the Professional Institute of Nigeria (2007), and was honored by the Atlanta City Council for his exceptional community leadership.
Legacy and Impact
Known for his compassion, Hon. Sha’aban is widely admired for his dedication to humanitarian causes and his large-hearted commitment to poverty alleviation and youth empowerment. Through his various ventures, he has created employment opportunities for countless Nigerians, establishing himself as a pillar of economic empowerment.
Hon. Sani Mohammad Sha’aban remains a beacon of hope, inspiring younger generations with his legacy of leadership, integrity, and service to humanity.