On September 1st, 2025, tributes poured in from across Nigeria as distinguished institutions and communities celebrated the 68th birthday of Alhaji Usman Kankara Bello mni, Kanwan Katsina III and District Head of Ketare in Kankara LGA, Katsina State.
The Alumni Association of the National Institute (AANI), led by Ambassador E.O. Okafor mni, praised the monarch’s enduring legacy of patriotism, leadership, and community development. In a heartfelt message, AANI described him as a “seasoned public servant and exemplary alumnus” whose life reflects humility, wisdom, and national impact.
Katsina State Radio Services, through General Manager Malam Lawal Attahiru Bakori, commended the Kanwan Katsina’s visionary leadership and his unwavering commitment to grassroots progress.
The Ketare Youth Development Association (KYEDEMA), under Comrade Mudasiru Lawal Gurbi, joined the celebration, applauding his efforts in youth empowerment, social advancement, and economic development.
Former colleagues from the 1982 Nigeria Customs Service intake, the 1981 graduating class of Ahmadu Bello University, and the 1974 class of Government Secondary School Malumfashi all paid tribute to his contributions to mentorship, education, and national service.
Former State Chairman, Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Kaduna State chapel,
Adamu Yusuf also joined the league of well wishers.
In his congratulatory message to the Kanwan Katsina, he stated: “In this special day, we celebrate a remarkable traditional leader
Kanwan Katsina, District Head Of Kankara, (U K Bello) whose life has been dedicated to serving his people with sincerity and unwavering commitment. Your love and support for journalists in Katsina and across Nigeria have earned you well-deserved recognition and numerous awards.
“You stand out not only as a people’s leader but also as a symbol of elegance and excellence, admired as one of the best dressers and a shining example of dignity in leadership.
“May your new age bring you more wisdom, strength, and fulfillment as you continue to inspire and uplift your people. Wishing you a long life, good health, and greater accomplishments,” he stated.
Born into the illustrious Nadabo family of Kankara on September 1, 1957, Alhaji Bello’s journey began at Central Primary School Kankara, followed by Government Secondary School Malumfashi and ABU Zaria, where he earned a degree in Political Science.
He joined the Nigeria Customs Service in 1982, rising to the rank of Comptroller of Customs by 2009. His career was marked by innovation, integrity, and excellence—introducing reforms like duty payments on smoked fish imports and earning accolades as Best PRO at Apapa and Tincan Island Ports.
In 2013, he was admitted into the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), serving as Vice Chairman of Study Group One and attending global leadership training in the U.S.
Since retiring in 2017, Alhaji Bello has served as Kanwan Katsina III, bringing transformative leadership to Ketare. His initiatives span education, healthcare, agriculture, youth development, and security, with a focus on collaboration and sustainable growth.
As Heritage Chairman of AANI Katsina Chapter, he continues to champion national development and policy excellence.
The widespread celebration of his birthday reflects a life devoted to service, unity, and progress. Alhaji Usman Kankara Bello mni remains a beacon of leadership whose legacy continues to inspire generations across Katsina State and Nigeria.