Late Alhaji Shehu Idris, CFR, a great son of Nigeria that has found special favour in the sight of Allah; a man endowed with great wisdom and colossal intellect, an embodiment of humility: a man whose record of service clearly demonstrates his indomitable will, energy and versatility, a leader par excellence Alhaji Shuhe Idris, CFR. The epic and saga surrounding the birth of this illustrious son of Late Mallam Idrisu Autan Sambo and Malam Aminatu, 81 years ago, announced the arrival of a historical phenomenon and a start with unquantifiable and enviable character. The education potentialities bestowed on Alhaji Idris unfolded from his early exposure to the school brilliant academic record throughout his educational career which spans a period of about two decades from 1947-1969. Between 1967 and 1969. He was selected as one of the five Nigerians that want to Australia for a specialist courses in Public Administration.
This course was attended by the representative to ten other countries and at the end, His Highness Alhaji Shehu Idris was adjudged the best. Inspired by his knack for education, his highness; Alhaji Shehu Idris has attended and presented many through provoking papers at seminars and conferences within and outside Nigeria.
His highness has a rich array of administrative and work experiences. From very humble beginning as a school teacher, he rose to the rank of a school Headmaster in 1958, a position he held till 1961. He desire for higher service to humanity propelled him to work:
- In Zaria Native Authority Treasury (1961-1962).
- In Ministry of Local Government, Northern Region Secretary, Zaria Local Authority Council (1963-1964).
- As Liaison Officer Between Government and Local Authority (1973-1975).
- As Private Secretary to the late Emir of Zazzau- Alhaji Mohammadu Aminu (1962-1963 and 1973-1975).
His highly appreciated leadership qualities spaced with unimaginable simplicity and humility led to his ascension to the exalted throne of Zazzau in 1975. Emir of Zazzau is a leader of prominence whose administrative achievements are both profound and intimidating. The resounding contributions in Zazzau Emirate under His Highness, Alhaji Shehu Idris are very distinguished and challenging. His Highness competence in leadership gave rise to other recognitions and appointments.
Shehu Idris the son of mallam Idris fondly refered to Autan sambo hails from Katsinawa ruling dynasty. Alhaji Shehu Idris is the grand son of Mallam Muhammadu Sambo the 10th Fulani Emir of Zazzau who in turn is the son of Mallam Abdulkarimu Bakatsine who was the 3rd Emir of Zazzau. He is the highly respected Emir of Zazzau since 1975. His reign has witnessed tremendous development of the ancient town of Zazzau. PRESENT RULER: His Highness Alhaji, Dr. SHEHU IDRIS C.F.R (Katsinawa), the 18th Emir of Zaria (1975/ 20th Sep, 2020).