Tribute
Tribute: Kashim Shettima@56
Tribute: Kashim Shettima@56
By: James Bwala
I am Kashim Shettima. I was born on September 2, 1966 and tomorrow is my birthday. September is the beginning of the good season of the year. It was said that those born in September are born great and I am grateful to be a September Child. Today, I return thanks to God Almighty for a foot in my journey to greatness on this accidental pedestrian called politics as I would always say. But in this journey, full of memories that are all good because God has been kind to me. I feel indebted to everyone I come across on this journey of life believing our meetings were divinely arranged.
I have no room or space enough to speak on everything I wish I had time and space to say, However, Let me say that when we started on this course to shape the future of our country, I was rather waiting on the Almighty to take the lead. I am so humbled that he took the lead. My Principal, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu- the burden bearer and yours sincerely have one thing in common and that is to build the future of the next generation of our people.
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On this day, I will not bother you about the history of this great Nation. I will not bother you with the stories of the many Crosses we have been carrying along with you but I will tell you that the future is bright for all of us. I said this without looking back because history has shown us the kind of a leader we have in Asiwaju by the success stories we heard and witnessed about his administration in Lagos 1999 to 2007 and the legacies he left behind.
In the last 40 years of our political history, the Asiwaju train has been the voice of the masses. I have come to also partake in that succor on our experiences in Borno state when we lead our people through the thickest darkness of the days of insurgency’ and Political struggles. Distance from Maiduguri to Lagos was mere a step in search of the light of hope that has contributed to our success as government on the pages of history.
I have on several occasions had the cause to say thank you to Tinubu for all the lessons learnt under his guidance. For all the advice he has given and for all the support he rendered by standing by us in our hours of need. As a Borno man and standing with over five million Borno people we have moved from one success story to another in the course of time. These are the blessings of Allah and a gift for us as history will not forgive us if we forget to recall some of the experiences we shared between Borno and Lagos State in the dawn of memories.
That I remain loyal to the course of the All Progressive Congress, APC and to Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu is not only about politics but also the brotherly love we shared -The fatherly understanding and the comradeship of the common good. As we look ahead with you around us, the books have been opened about the destiny of Nigeria. Together, we can make history again; we shall lift our flags in the March to a greater Nigeria.
I salute everyone that is standing with us on this victorious road that leads to a new beginning and a promise for a better tomorrow. I choose this day to celebrate Nigerians rather than celebrate myself because in this journey it is not about me but about our common good and with God on our side, the story would as it is written. So shall it be.
Tribute: Kashim Shettima@56
Tribute
Lagbaja: The nation has lost a strategic commander, General Buratai.
Lagbaja: The nation has lost a strategic commander, General Buratai.
By Dr. James Bwala
The recent passing of Lagbaja, the late Chief of Army Staff and a prominent figure in our nation, has left a void in the hearts of many. His contributions to the security of our society were immeasurable, and his loss is truly a blow to our nation. The late General Lagbaja was not just a soldier; he was a revolutionary thinker, a strategic commander who used his platform to advocate for social change, justice, and equality. His leadership in the Nigerian Army was not just routine for top officers within such ranks; he was a confident emulator of strategic leadership and was a tool for active leadership and promoter of morals for soldiers; thus, he was described by the former Chief of Army Staff and former Nigerian Ambassador to the Republic of Benin Republic, Lieutenant General (Amb) Tukur Yusufu Buratai, (Rtd) CFR.
According to him, Lieutenant General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja was a true embodiment of discipline and dedication, stressing that his passing leaves a void in the Nigerian Army and the nation at large. While he mourns the late COAS, the former Chief, General Tukur Yusuf Buratai, said during his time as COAS, he found him worthy of command, where he was appointed Commander 9 Brigade in Ikeja and later Commander 2 Brigade in Uyo. ‘The 2 Brigade that I also commanded. Upon his promotion to the rank of Major General, I posted him to Army Headquarters as the Director of Campaign Plan in 2020. The nation has lost a strategic commander.’ He added.
According to him, General Lagbaja’s leadership and vision have been instrumental in shaping the Nigerian Army into the formidable institution it is today. His legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched and the nation he served with great zeal and commitment.
“Late General Laggbaja was not just a mere army commander; he was a strategic and visionary leader whose loss has left a significant void in our nation’s defense forces. As his former commander, General Buratai feels compelled to highlight the immense impact that his passing has had on our military and national security.
“Lt. General Laggbaja was not just a soldier; he was a brilliant tactician who had a keen understanding of modern warfare and the ever-evolving threats facing our nation. His strategic thinking and leadership were instrumental in shaping the defense capabilities of our armed forces and ensuring that they were prepared to face any challenge that came their way.
“His loss is not just a personal tragedy for his family and colleagues but also a profound loss for our nation as a whole. We have lost a visionary leader who was dedicated to securing our borders, protecting our citizens, and upholding the values of our nation.
“In the wake of Lt. General Laggbaja’s passing, it is crucial that we reflect on the immense contribution that he made to our nation’s defense forces and honor his legacy by continuing to uphold the values that he held dear. We must ensure that his vision and leadership are not forgotten and that we strive to build on the foundations that he laid down for us.
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“I urge my fellow citizens to pay tribute to Lt. General Laggbaja by supporting our armed forces, honoring the sacrifices that they make on a daily basis, and advocating for policies that strengthen our national security. Let us not forget the profound impact that he had on our nation, and let us strive to continue his legacy of service and dedication.
“The loss of Lt. General Laggbaja is a stark reminder of the sacrifices that our men and women in uniform make every day to protect our nation. Let us remember his legacy, honor his service, and ensure that his vision for a strong and secure nation lives on. The nation has truly lost a strategic army commander, but his legacy will continue to inspire us for years to come.
“In this difficult time, I pray that General Lagbaja’s family, friends, and colleagues find solace in the memories of his remarkable life and service. May his dedication to Nigeria inspire future generations to follow in his footsteps.
“I extend my heartfelt condolences to the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, General Lagbaja’s beloved wife, Mrs. Mariyah Abiodun Lagbaja, the Acting Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, and the entire Nigerian Army. May Allah forgive his shortcomings and grant him eternal rest,” General Buratai stated.
Lagbaja: The nation has lost a strategic commander, General Buratai.
Tribute
KAKA SHEHU LAWAN: The Kid Silk On The Marble
KAKA SHEHU LAWAN: The Kid Silk On The Marble
By: Inuwa Bwala
His mesmeric rise to stardom has not only been fast, but it has also been historic and record-breaking.
Except for those who have been conversant with his brilliance since his school days, many people thought it was too fast in coming: talking about Senator Kaka Shehu Lawan, SAN: one of Nigerias newest silk.
As for me and for those who have keenly followed through his school days, his professional calling, and his political manouvres, Kaka Shehu Lawan’s conferment as a Senior Advicate of Nigeria, was the fulfillment of a long awaited and well-deserved recognition.
I recall, that, with a near prophetic precise, way back in 2011: when I took particular notice of him amongst the team of lawyers, working to aquit the then Governor elect in Borno state: now the Vice President, Kashim Shettima of wrong doing, in a post election litigation, I have always called him a SAN.
And having worked with him as members of the Borno State Executive Council, I always referred to him as the doyen of cabinet.
His exceptional dedication, unwavering passion, and unrelenting pursuit of academic excellence, work, and justice may have earned him this outstanding elevation into the elite class of the bar.
Reading through his rather intimidating CV, from my corner of the hall, where a civic reception was held for him, I have come to additionally know, that, his remarkable journey started since his school days, when he displayed brillance and candour amongst his peers.
At the civic reception organized in his honor, anyone previledged to attend could attest to the young Silk’s acceptance and connections.
I could not hide my feelings and passed yet another message to him at the occasion, but that is a topic for another day.
But, that the Chief Judge of Borno State, Justice Kashim Zanna, who rarely play such roles accepted to be the chairman of the occasion, and for Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, to abandon state functions, just to be there, speak volumes about the personality and relevance of Kaka Shehu Lawan.
And counting from my corner, I could see that it was a roll call of who is who in the political arena in Borno. It was also a galaxy of the high echelon of the legal profession, led by no other than the Attorney General and Minister of Justice.
It was a parade of distinguished senators of the Federal Republic, a line up of members of the House of Representatives and Houses of Assembly and indeed the business community.
Those who spoke on the occasion attested to the fact that Kaka Shehu, even as a young lawyer, is an inspiration to many older ones, including members of the bench.
Of course, his commitment to upholding the law, advocating for justice, and serving his state and Nigeria truly remain a watershed in the anals of history.
I admire his courage, even at the point when we had disagreements with the state, and he was about to send me to jail for no fault of his. Given his unwavering integrity, exceptional advocacy skills,
compassionate approach to legal and political matters, his innovative approach to legal solutions, and, of course, his leadership and mentorship qualities, no man could help but admire him.
The many tasks he has been entrusted to handle, further make his qualities inconcealable, and certainly, this recognition serves as a testament to the positive impact he has made in the lives of people, his colleagues, and the legal community.
I join a million others in celebrating his accomplishments even as I look forward to his continued success.
Kaka Shehu Lawan is indeed an inspiration to aspiring lawyers and a shining example of excellence in the legal profession.
Congratulations to him and the people of Borno state.
KAKA SHEHU LAWAN: The Kid Silk On The Marble
News
Hajiya Ya’ana Gambo Mustapha Umar El-kanemi was laid to rest in Maiduguri
Hajiya Ya’ana Gambo Mustapha Umar El-kanemi was laid to rest in Maiduguri
By: Our Reporter
The Acting Governor of Borno State,H.E Hon Umar Usman Kadafur led the entire Borno State Cabinet members to the funeral prayers of wife to late Shehu of Borno H.R.H Mustapha Umar El-kanemi who died yesterday after a protracted illness.
The funeral prayers took place at Mairari Shehu’s palace,Maiduguri.
The funeral was performed by the Imam Idaini of Borno Imam Shettima Mamman Shettima Sale.
The acting Governor was accompanied by the APC State Chairman Hon.Bello Ayuba,Secretary to state government Hon.Bukar Tijjani,Acting Head of Service,Hon.Commissioners,deputy chief of staff,Special Advisers,Senior Special Assistant,Special Assistants,permanent secretaries.
Others are Senator Bakaka Bashir Garbai,Alhaji Abubakar Umara Zulum,District heads,traditional title holders,Politicians among Others.
The acting Governor and his entourage prayed for the reposed soul of the deceased for almighty Allah to grant her jannah,amin.
Hajiya Ya’ana Gambo Mustapha Umar El-kanemi was laid to rest in Maiduguri
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