Full Biography of Hon. Iliya James

Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Adamawa State, Nigeria

Honourable Iliya James (also written James Iliya in some official documents) is a distinguished public servant and political leader from Adamawa State, Nigeria. He currently serves as the Honourable Commissioner for Information and Strategy under the administration of His Excellency, Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri. His journey from humble beginnings in a rural community to the upper echelon of state administration represents a story of resilience, dedication, and vision.

Hon. Iliya James was born on 17th November 1978 in Kwafara, a small but historically rich community located in Demsa Local Government Area (LGA) of Adamawa State. He hails from a modest family background that valued education, hard work, and community service. Growing up in a rural setting, young Iliya was exposed to both the challenges and the beauty of communal life in northern Nigeria. His early years were marked by discipline, curiosity, and a natural leadership spirit that would later define his career in public service.

As a child, he was described by his teachers and peers as intelligent, inquisitive, and hardworking. He showed early interest in current affairs and community welfare, often engaging elders in discussions about development and governance. This early exposure laid the foundation for his future role as a communicator and strategist in public life.

Hon. Iliya James’ pursuit of education began at Ngabeskedewe Primary School, where he obtained his First School Leaving Certificate. He later proceeded to Government Day Secondary School, Demsa, where he obtained his Senior Secondary School Certificate (SSCE) in 1997. His performance in school reflected his determination to rise above the limitations of his environment.

After completing his secondary education, he gained admission into the Federal Polytechnic, Mubi, one of the foremost technical and managerial institutions in northeastern Nigeria. There, he earned both a National Diploma (ND) and a Higher National Diploma (HND) in Accountancy, completing his studies in 2006. His training in accountancy equipped him with a solid foundation in financial management, administration, and accountability — skills that would later prove essential in his roles in both the private and public sectors.

Driven by a passion for continued learning and self-improvement, Hon. Iliya James went further to obtain a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) degree in Economics from the Federal University, Wukari, Taraba State. His combination of technical and economic education made him a well-rounded professional capable of handling the complex fiscal, developmental, and communication challenges facing modern governance.

Upon the completion of his higher education, Hon. Iliya James participated in the mandatory National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) program in 2008, where he was posted to Ogun State in southwestern Nigeria. The one-year service period exposed him to different cultural and professional experiences, broadening his perspective on national unity, work ethics, and leadership.

After his NYSC, he began his professional career at AFCOT Nigeria, a private agricultural and commodity firm operating in Gwaza. At AFCOT, he started as a Store Keeper and later rose through the ranks to become Assistant Manager. During his time with the company, he developed strong managerial and organizational skills and gained firsthand experience in logistics, inventory management, and workforce supervision. His employers and colleagues praised him for his integrity, dedication, and problem-solving abilities.

In 2011, Hon. Iliya James joined the Adamawa State Government as a teacher under the Post Primary Schools Management Board (PPSMB). This role marked his formal entry into the public sector. While teaching, he became a mentor and role model to many young people, emphasizing discipline, patriotism, and personal responsibility. His deep commitment to youth empowerment and education became apparent during this period.

Hon. Iliya James’ effectiveness as a teacher and administrator did not go unnoticed. His leadership qualities, analytical mind, and commitment to public good gradually drew him into active politics. He joined the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) — a political platform known for its progressive ideals and people-centered governance.

Over time, he became an active participant in party activities, contributing intellectually and organizationally to political discourse and mobilization in Demsa and the wider Adamawa State. His reputation as a fair, humble, and articulate individual earned him respect among party members, community leaders, and grassroots constituents.

His involvement in politics was never about personal ambition alone but about service — a continuation of his passion for community development. Through hard work, loyalty, and strategic acumen, he rose through the political hierarchy and became recognized as a dependable member of the PDP family in Adamawa State.

His first major political appointment came when Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri appointed him as the Commissioner for Entrepreneurship Development. In this role, Hon. Iliya James focused on empowering young entrepreneurs, small and medium-scale business owners, and rural innovators. He oversaw initiatives that provided training, credit access, and mentorship opportunities to thousands of young people in Adamawa State.

He emphasized the importance of entrepreneurship as a tool for poverty reduction, self-reliance, and economic diversification. Under his supervision, the ministry developed programmes that encouraged creativity, local production, and sustainable livelihoods. His background in economics and management provided the technical insight needed to structure policies that promoted enterprise growth and accountability in fund utilization.

His tenure as Commissioner for Entrepreneurship Development was marked by transparency, accessibility, and tangible impact. Many beneficiaries of the ministry’s initiatives testified to the positive difference his leadership brought to their lives and communities.

Following a cabinet reshuffle in the Fintiri administration, Hon. Iliya James was appointed as the Honourable Commissioner for Information and Strategy, a position he currently holds. The appointment was based on his proven competence, loyalty, and record of performance.

As Commissioner, he was tasked with a broad mandate: to manage the state’s communication architecture, ensure accurate and timely information dissemination, strengthen government-citizen relations, and develop strategic communication plans for policy coordination. He also oversees state-owned media establishments, including the Adamawa Broadcasting Corporation (ABC Yola), Adamawa Television (ATV), and the state newspaper, The Scope.

His ministry plays a central role in promoting the policies and achievements of the Fintiri-led administration, managing media relations, and enhancing the image of Adamawa State at regional and national levels.

Hon. Iliya James believes that information is the lifeblood of governance. His vision for the Ministry of Information and Strategy revolves around three core principles:

1. Transparency and Credibility in Information Dissemination – ensuring that citizens receive accurate, timely, and verifiable information about government policies and programmes.

2. Professionalization of Public Communication – building a well-trained, motivated information workforce to improve government messaging and media relations.

3. Strategic Coordination Across Ministries – using communication strategy as a unifying force to ensure that all ministries speak with one voice in the interest of development.

His approach has led to greater harmony between the government and media professionals. He promotes open-door engagement with journalists, encourages constructive criticism, and ensures government communication aligns with global best practices.

Under his leadership, the Ministry of Information and Strategy has recorded numerous achievements, including:

Revitalization of State-Owned Media Outlets: Hon. Iliya James initiated a comprehensive reform program to modernize the Adamawa Broadcasting Corporation (ABC Yola). This included staff motivation, equipment upgrades, and renewed focus on professionalism.

Improved Staff Welfare: He worked with the state executive council to secure approval for staff promotions and welfare packages, emphasizing that morale directly affects productivity.

Public Enlightenment Campaigns: His ministry has spearheaded campaigns on peacebuilding, health awareness, and economic programs.

Digital Communication Initiatives: Recognizing the changing media landscape, he has championed the use of social media platforms and online portals to engage citizens, especially the youth.

Strengthened Government Image: Through effective media management, the ministry has enhanced the image of Adamawa State as a progressive, development-oriented, and inclusive government.

These achievements demonstrate his capacity as both an administrator and communicator.

Hon. Iliya James is widely respected for his humility, integrity, and accessibility. His leadership style emphasizes teamwork, discipline, and mentorship. He often describes leadership as “a call to serve, not to rule.”

He believes that a good leader must listen to others, promote inclusivity, and make decisions based on fairness and evidence. His open-door policy has encouraged collaboration among civil servants, media professionals, and community representatives.

He is also known for his ability to bridge communication gaps between government and citizens, ensuring that people’s voices are heard and their concerns are addressed constructively.

Every leadership role comes with challenges. As Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Hon. Iliya James faces obstacles such as:

Outdated broadcasting equipment in some state media houses

The rise of misinformation and fake news

Limited resources for extensive media campaigns

Public skepticism due to previous government failures

However, he has approached these challenges with pragmatism and innovation. By promoting digital media training, partnerships with private broadcasters, and transparent government communication, he continues to reposition the ministry for better service delivery.

He is also a strong advocate for media ethics, insisting that both government and journalists must operate with honesty and responsibility to preserve public trust.

Beyond his official duties, Hon. Iliya James is a devoted family man, community advocate, and mentor to young people. He is married and blessed with children. Despite his busy schedule, he remains active in his local community in Demsa, contributing to education, youth development, and religious harmony.

He is a member of the Nigerian Institute of Management (NIM) and maintains relationships with academic and professional bodies that promote good governance and leadership excellence.

Known for his modest lifestyle, he lives by the values of honesty, faith, and service. His guiding belief is that leadership must improve lives and inspire future generations to serve with sincerity.

Hon. Iliya James continues to be an influential figure within the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Adamawa State. His contributions to grassroots mobilization, youth participation, and good governance have strengthened the party’s image in the region.

He represents a new generation of leaders in northern Nigeria pragmatic, educated, and deeply rooted in community service. His ability to balance politics with professionalism has earned him widespread respect from colleagues and citizens alike.

As Commissioner, his ultimate goal is to leave behind a legacy of transparent communication, functional media institutions, and a strategic information system that future administrations can build upon.

The impact of Hon. Iliya James’ work extends beyond the Ministry of Information. His policies support economic growth, public accountability, and civic participation. By promoting effective communication, he strengthens the social contract between the government and the governed.

Looking ahead, Hon. Iliya James is expected to continue contributing to governance reforms, youth empowerment, and information modernization in Adamawa State and Nigeria at large. Many political observers view him as a potential future leader at higher levels of government due to his track record, humility, and commitment to progress.

Honourable Iliya James exemplifies what it means to serve with integrity, competence, and compassion. From a small village in Demsa to the cabinet of one of Nigeria’s most progressive governors, his journey underscores the power of education, faith, and dedication to public good.

As Commissioner for Information and Strategy, his work is not merely about communication it is about building trust, shaping narratives, and fostering unity in a diverse state. His life continues to inspire many young Nigerians who believe that honest service remains the most enduring path to leadership.