Bashir Hadejia, nicknamed ‘Villa boy,’ is a Nigerian whose profile has dramatically shifted from a relatively unknown figure to a subject of intense public scrutiny due to serious allegations involving criminal activities.
While specific details about his early life and education remain sparse, Hadejia rose to prominence primarily through his political associations and business dealings.
Political career and connections
Hadejia’s political career is closely tied to his former role as a special adviser to Bello Matawalle, the former governor of Zamfara State and currently the minister of state for defence.
During Matawalle’s governorship, Hadejia was involved in several high-profile activities, which boosted his visibility in political circles.
Notably, he was part of the delegation that presented gold bars mined in Zamfara to then-President Muhammadu Buhari in 2020, a gesture that symbolised the state’s contribution to the national economy through artisanal gold mining.
“President Muhammadu Buhari last night at his residence, the State House, Abuja, received Governor of Zamfara State, Dr. Bello Matawalle accompanied by Alhaji Bashir Hadejia. Gov. Matawalle was at the State House to present some gold bars and other precious stones mined in his State. Describe the visuals,” Bashir Ahmad, an aide to Buhari, captioned the photos posted online.
Hadejia’s connections extend beyond Matawalle; he is also known to have close ties with other high-ranking officials in the Nigerian government.
He has been photographed with President Bola Tinubu; Femi Gbajabiamila, President’s chief of staff; Nuhu Ribadu, national security adviser Nuhu Ribadu, and Mohammed Badaru, the minister of Defence.
These relationships earned him the nickname ‘Villa boy,’ indicating his frequent presence and influence within the Presidential Villa.
Business ventures and allegations
Hadejia is described as a gold bar merchant, with his involvement in the gold trade drawing significant attention.
In a widely circulated video, Hadejia is seen displaying what appears to be a large quantity of gold bars…
