Tribute
Jigawa University: Sule Lamido’s vision, Gov Namadi’s transformation
By Adamu Muhd Usman
For those closely connected to His Excellency, the former Governor of Jigawa State, Dr. Sule Lamido (CON), it is not a surprise that a high-powered delegation from the Jigawa State government, led by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG) Alhaji Bala Ibrahim (Mamser), visited Sule Lamido. Their purpose was to express appreciation and gratitude for Lamido’s generous donation of his magnificent mansion in his hometown of Bamaina, in the Birnin-Kudu area of Jigawa State, to the state university named after him: Sule Lamido University, Kafin-Hausa. The mansion will serve as the Islamic Research Centre, after his demise. Allahu Akbar (God is great).
Every patriotic Jigawa indigene should or must eulogise Sule Lamido for establishing the Jigawa State University in order to afford the state indigenes more access to higher education opportunities. Before the establishment of the state university, many eligible candidates of Jigawa origin who sought admission into higher institutions (universities) were left out due to the lack of opportunities, hence the warm welcome with which Jigawa citizens received the establishment of the state university.
In 2007 Sule Lamido inherited an agrarian state. Virtually everything was dilapidated, especially the educational sector. The backwardness in education made Jigawa the most disadvantaged state in the country, and its people were sharply divided. In terms of development, Jigawa State lagged behind in all respects, especially with the deterioration of education. Samuel M. Lindsay once said, “The quality of education and the level of educational attainment of a people determine the quality of its leaders and people.
Sule Lamido had prioritised education to the core and also allocated a lot of money in his budget every year to the educational sector in order to bridge the gap or to give rebirth to education at all levels when he held sway as the governor of the state to the extent that when he left office in 2015, Jigawa was a state driven by knowledge.
The donation of that house to the state university is the least Sule Lamido can do for Jigawa and its people. Lamido has sacrificed his life for the emancipation of the downtrodden. Lamido was jailed several times during the PRP days and the military junta, all for the sake of the happiness and wellbeing of the common man. Lamido in person and the legacies he left behind will, for centuries to come or forever linger in the hearts of Nigerians, especially the Jigawa people, specifically Kafin-Hausa town. Miyyati alaraini (thank you)
Lamido has set the pace for any Jigawa governor to come after him. We hope and pray that the present governor, Malam Umar Namadi (FCA), a.k.a. Dan Modi, will make a difference in that regard with reference to Sule Lamido University.
Though some indices and other things he started from its inception towards improving the school and making the varsity excel are signs he will do well and are worth extolling.
The most astonishing one is the rapid, ongoing faculty of medicine project.
The appointment of
Prof. Muhammad Ibrahim Yakasai, as the new Vice Chancellor of Sule Lamido University, Kafin-Hausa on December 5th, 2023, by governor Namadi is another step in the right direction to making the university a fantastic educational environment because he is a good and sound educationist with vast experience in administration and knowledge.
Also, the release of the N774,810,085,00K scholarship allowance to 26,835 Jigawa indigenes studying at different tertiary institutions in Nigeria with the exception of foreign students as allowance is part of Governor Namadi’s passion and commitment to higher education in the state.
The authorization of recruitment of more staffs in the university will bring about efficiency and smooth operation. The ongoing 150 housing estates project opposite the varsity to accommodate the staff is actually part of staff welfare. The continuation of student housing (hostel) is also ongoing to provide for conducive learning environment in the university.
We appeal to Governor Namadi to keep the tempo. In a few years, by the special grace of God, Sule Lamido University will compete with any university in west Africa, not even in Nigeria, not to mention the north. Because the university has all it takes to attain that; Security and safety are in place; there is conducive teaching and learning environment; the climate and weather conditions are conducive; affordable life; economic and moral aspects are obtainable. Even for affordability and ease of enrollment, it is the best in the country. Jigawa, here we come; SLU, here we are; sound education and good moral upbringing are available and attainable.
Adamu writes from Kafin-Hausa, Jigawa state.
Tribute
David Mark Mourns with Saraki Family Over Mother’s Passing
Former Senate President, Senator David Mark, has extended his condolences to Senator Bukola Saraki and his family over the loss of their matriarch, Madam Florence Morenike Saraki.
In a heartfelt message, Senator Mark eulogized the late Madam Saraki as a quintessential mother who exemplified compassion, discipline, and philanthropy.
Media Adviser to the Senator, Paul Mumeh in a statement quoted him to have described her as a woman of remarkable character whose legacy is evident in the lives and achievements of her children.
“Madam Saraki was a noble woman in every sense—her kindness and contributions to the development of society will remain evergreen,” Senator Mark stated.
He praised the values she instilled in her children, noting that her teachings were instrumental in shaping Senator Saraki into a patriotic leader. “Your dedication to national service reflects Mama’s unwavering commitment to raising responsible and impactful citizens,” he added.
Senator Mark acknowledged the flood of tributes that have poured in since Madam Saraki’s passing as a testament to her virtuous life and the positive impact she made on others.
He encouraged the Saraki family to uphold the virtues their mother embodied, especially her generosity and community spirit, which endeared her to many.
Senator Mark offered prayers for the repose of Madam Saraki’s soul and for divine strength for the Saraki family as they navigate this period of mourning.
Tribute
Senator Natasha Mourns Prof. Nuhu Yaqub, Hails His Legacy of Excellence
Kogi central Senator, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has joined the nation in mourning the death of renowned academic and former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Abuja, Professor Nuhu Yaqub, describing his passing as a monumental loss to Nigeria’s academic and intellectual community.
In an emotion-laden statement, Senator Natasha paid glowing tribute to the late professor, highlighting his unparalleled contributions to education, leadership, and national development.
“Professor Yaqub was more than an academic; he was a visionary leader who dedicated his life to the pursuit of knowledge and the transformation of Nigeria’s education sector,” she remarked.
Reflecting on his achievements, Senator Natasha acknowledged the profound impact Professor Yaqub had on shaping young minds and influencing policies that strengthened Nigeria’s educational framework.
“His legacy of integrity, excellence, and service will remain a guiding light for generations to come. He inspired hope and set high standards for intellectual growth and national development,” she added.
The senator extended her heartfelt condolences to Professor Yaqub’s family, colleagues, and loved ones, assuring them of her prayers and support during this difficult time.
“On behalf of the people of Kogi Central and the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, I share in the grief of this great loss. May God grant his family the strength to bear this irreparable loss, and may his soul rest in eternal peace,” she concluded.
Professor Nuhu Yaqub’s death has continued to evoke widespread tributes, with many remembering him as a dedicated scholar, mentor, and administrator whose work left an enduring mark on Nigeria’s academic landscape.
Tribute
David Mark Pays Tribute to General Godwin Abbe, says he is a national hero
Nigeria is mourning the death of General Godwin Osagie Abbe, a decorated military officer and statesman, whose passing has been described as the fall of an Iroko. Former President of the Senate, Senator David Mark, led tributes, calling Abbe a national hero and an irreplaceable patriot.
In a statement issued in Abuja by his media adviser Paul umeh, Mark eulogized Abbe as a “Comrade in Arms” who embodied integrity, discipline, and love for country throughout his illustrious career.
“General Abbe was a great soldier—one of the finest the Nigerian Armed Forces ever produced. In every role he served, he displayed uncommon dedication, professionalism, and patriotism,” Mark stated.
Mark highlighted Abbe’s outstanding service as Military Governor of Akwa Ibom and Rivers States, where he left “a legacy of impactful leadership and remarkable accomplishments.”
He also praised Abbe’s distinguished contributions as General Officer Commanding (GOC), Commandant of Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC), and Commandant of the National War College (NWC), where he upheld the highest traditions of military excellence and protected Nigeria’s territorial integrity.
Reflecting on Abbe’s tenure as Minister of Defence, Mark described him as “a leader of leaders who served with wisdom and vision.”
“Nigeria has lost one of its brightest and most courageous minds. General Abbe’s death is a monumental loss to the nation and leaves a void that will be difficult to fill,” Mark added.
Senator Mark extended heartfelt condolences to Abbe’s family and prayed for God to grant them the strength to bear the loss while asking for eternal rest for the departed soul.
General Abbe’s death has drawn tributes from across Nigeria, with many remembering him as a fearless soldier, a patriotic leader, and a symbol of national service and sacrifice.
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