A Leader Who Leads Like A Father: Professor Abdulrasheed Garbadeserves Greater National Service
This is one of our respected, amiable, and exemplary elder statesmen in academia. Professor Abdulrasheed Garba continues to perform wonderfully, proving that true leadership is about service, sacrifice, compassion, and genuine concern for the people under one's care. His statement, "It is better for me to resign as Vice Chancellor than for any student to be unsafe on campus. You are all my sons and daughters," is not mere rhetoric; it is a reflection of his philosophy of leadership. His actions speak louder than words. From conducting night security patrols on campus to strengthening security structures, collaborating with security agencies, and organising Qur'anic recitations and prayers for peace and progress, he has consistently demonstrated fatherly leadership. It is therefore not surprising that students love him, respect him, and continuously pray for him. A leader who serves the people sincerely will naturally win their hearts and confidence.
Personally, I strongly believe that distinguished personalities like Professor Abdulrasheed Garba should be given opportunities to serve the nation at higher levels. In my humble opinion, he possesses the qualities, experience, administrative competence, and human relations required of a minister. I sincerely wish and pray that one day he will be appointed as a minister to contribute his wealth of knowledge and leadership experience to national development. Nigeria is blessed with many capable veterans and seasoned professionals whose records of service speak for them. If more competent, selfless, and visionary individuals are identified and entrusted with greater responsibilities, the country will undoubtedly move forward. I therefore encourage our leaders, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to continue seeking out men and women of integrity, competence, and proven performance for the betterment and development of Nigeria.
As the saying goes, "The best among people are those who are most beneficial to humanity." The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said: "The most beloved people to Allah are those who are most beneficial to people."
Allah the Almighty also says: "Indeed, Allah commands you to render trusts to whom they are due and when you judge between people, judge with justice." (Qur'an 4:58) Leadership founded on justice, trust, compassion, and accountability will always attract the love, support, and prayers of the people. When leaders do the needful and serve the masses sincerely, they build confidence, unity, and progress within society.
May Almighty Allah (SWT) continue to preserve Professor Abdulrasheed Garba in good health and long life. May Allah increase him in wisdom, knowledge, sincerity, and success in all his undertakings. May Allah open greater doors of service for him, including opportunities to serve the nation in higher capacities if it is good for him, the people, and the country.
اللَّهُمَّ أَطِلْ عُمُرَهُ فِي طَاعَتِكَ، وَمَتِّعْهُ بِالصِّحَّةِ وَالْعَافِيَةِ، وَزِدْهُ عِلْمًا وَحِكْمَةً وَإِخْلَاصًا، وَوَفِّقْهُ لِكُلِّ خَيْرٍ، وَاجْعَلْهُ سَبَبًا لِنَهْضَةِ الْأُمَّةِ وَتَقَدُّمِ الْوَطَنِ، وَإِنْ كَانَ فِي تَوَلِّيهِ مَنْصِبًا وَزَارِيًّا خَيْرٌ لَهُ وَلِلنَّاسِ فَيَسِّرْهُ لَهُ، وَبَارِكْ فِي جُهُودِهِ، وَاخْتِمْ لَهُ بِالْحُسْنَى. آمِينَ يَا رَبَّ الْعَالَمِينَ.
Ameen, Ya Rabbal-'Alamin.
Dr. Gidado Abdulkarim Salimon writes from No 1b Halal Street Daudu Islamic Village, Ilorin kwara state.
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