Prior, to joining politics, he founded Quartz Integrated Services Nigeria Limited right after he had finished university, it was a renowned and very influential construction company which had first started operating in Kano.
The prevailing system featured a mix of elected and nominated councillors, with Bello representing the combined Gwaram and Birnin Kudu Local Government.
This early period marked the initiation of Bello Maitama's politicking antecedents, laying the foundation for a more extensive and enduring political career.
During a period when political activities were prohibited due to a military ban, Northern leaders with shared objectives, including D. S Tarka and others, convened in Kano to forge a united front.
To empower Northern businessmen, who were unfamiliar with the import license system, Maitama collaborated with banks to open letters of credit.
The focus on empowering people and correcting economic imbalances reflects Maitama's dedication to serving Nigeria with an open mind.
Recounting a meeting at his residence with Obasanjo and his governor, Ibrahim Saminu Turaki, Maitama revealed promises, including the construction of a tertiary institution in his constituency, were made to sway support for the agenda.
He argued against extending Obasanjo's presidency, highlighting historical and religious comparisons to emphasize that prolonged terms do not necessarily lead to development.
He withdrew from a Senate contest, suspecting a conspiracy against those opposing the third term, and wrote a letter to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) announcing his withdrawal.
Bello Maitama also indicted President Obasanjo for mismanaging a petroleum development fund and was also a prominent member of the Senate committee on youth and sports.