A single-page reference answering the questions most commonly asked about Tijjani Yahaya Kaura, MFR, founder of Inland Drills Limited.
Who is Tijjani Yahaya Kaura?
He is a Nigerian public servant born on 3 February 1959 in Kaura Namoda, Zamfara State, whose career spans local government, federal ministries, the Senate, a regional parliament, and the leadership of two federal agencies. He is also the founder of Inland Drills Limited, a licensed solid minerals and exploration drilling company based in Zamfara’s mineral belt.
What was his first elected office?
He was twice elected Executive Chairman of Kaura Namoda Local Government Area, holding office across two separate terms between 1991 and 1998.
Did he serve in the Senate?
Yes. He represented Zamfara North in the Nigerian Senate from 2015 to 2019, chairing the Committee on Federal Character and Intergovernmental Affairs. He has since declared his intention to contest the same seat again in the 2027 general elections.
What is the ECOWAS Parliament connection?
During his 2015 to 2019 Senate term, Kaura held a concurrent seat in the ECOWAS Parliament, the regional legislative body of the Economic Community of West African States.
What federal agencies has he led?
He served as Managing Director and CEO of the Oil and Gas Free Zones Authority from July 2022 to October 2023, and was inaugurated Chairman of the Governing Board of the Nigeria Export Processing Zones Authority on 9 February 2026.
What other federal roles has he held?
His public service record also includes postings with the National Population Commission and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, both served before his election to the Senate.
What does MFR mean?
MFR stands for Member of the Order of the Federal Republic, a Nigerian national honour recognising distinguished service to the country. It appears alongside Kaura’s name in official contexts.
What is Inland Drills Limited?
Inland Drills Limited is a licensed solid minerals and exploration drilling company founded by Kaura, operating in the mineral belt of Zamfara State. The company’s operations are licensed and documented independently of any office Kaura holds or has held.
What are his 2027 campaign priorities?
Kaura has named two central priorities for his 2027 Senate campaign: employment for qualified young people in Zamfara North, and educational development, which he has described as one of the most important investments a community can make in its own future.
