UDUS

By Rashida Aliyu

The term ‘Jambites’ refers to new or fresh students at the university, and they often display certain characteristics that set them apart from returning students.

Upon their arrival at Usmanu Danfodiyo University Sokoto, the faces of Jambites reflected a mixture of excitement and confusion, marking their transition from a secondary school environment to university life.

In observations, Jambites often exhibit behavior characterized by anxiety, as the university setting is entirely new to them. Many struggle with finding their way, navigating registration processes, and adapting to the academic system. As a result, they frequently seek assistance from returning students or university staff to understand how things work.

The fashion of Freshers and their engagement on social media is notable; Jambites tend to wear trendy outfits in an attempt to make a good first impression. They often document their initial experiences by sharing pictures and updates online to inform friends and family about their new journey.

Financial mismanagement is a common issue for many new students, particularly those living on campus. They often receive significant amounts of money from their parents to cover expenses, but inadequate financial planning—largely due to a lack of understanding of the environment—can lead some to spend extravagantly on unnecessary items during the initial weeks, resulting in financial difficulties later.

Eager to attend lectures, Jambites typically arrive early and try to secure seats at the front of the lecture hall to impress their lecturers. However, as the semester progresses, some may become less punctual as they settle into their new school life.

Jambites often seek guidance from senior students, who may either genuinely help them or exploit their naivety. Some returning students mislead newcomers by either exaggerating school rules or soliciting money for the assistance they provide.

Additionally, members of the local community and operators of computer business centers can sometimes betray the trust of new students. For instance, during the accommodation process, many new students are deceived by locals who take their money without providing housing. Furthermore, computer business centers and stationery shops often overcharge freshers for items and services compared to what regular students pay.

Hafsat Muhammad Tsamaye from the Faculty of FEED shared her experiences of life as a Jambite. She mentioned enjoying wandering around the campus without any specific purpose, simply to observe the movement of people. “During my first year, which people referred to as Jambito, it was amusing and easy because I was a Jambito. There were three things I normally did during that time: I was always looking for free Wi-Fi to download more movies than I could watch, even though I didn’t end up watching a lot of them,” she recalled.

Hafsat also shared her experience of attending night classes, remarking, “During my first semester as a Jambito, I always attended night classes, but I didn’t study much; I mostly just slept and changed classes every hour, spending money without any control. The funniest part was that I always cooked for others.”

The behaviors exhibited by Jambites upon their arrival at UDUS vary, but most of them show excitement, anxiety, and a strong desire to fit in.

In my opinion, the university management should implement a comprehensive orientation program to guide newcomers and facilitate their smooth transition into university life. This would help prevent potential issues. Additionally, returning students should treat freshers as their juniors and ensure they do not mislead them.

By Wonderful Adegoke 

“I’ve also had to absorb the cost of failed transactions,” lamented Adeyemi Ademola, a food seller on campus at Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto (UDUS), her voice tinged with frustration and despair. 

Struggling to keep her business afloat, Ademola’s story highlights the pervasive challenges stemming from disrupted banking services. Her small shop, which supplies students with staples like rice, beans, garri, and other essentials, has been eerily quiet. The culprit? Persistent banking service disruptions, especially from Guaranty Trust Bank (GTB) and Access Bank, which her customers rely on for online payments.

Ademola’s predicament mirrors the experiences of countless others who cannot access essential banking services. GTB’s ongoing downtime—part of its transition to a new core banking application system—has left many in limbo. Even a visit to customer care brought little solace, as the explanation of “technical disruptions” linked to recent system upgrades felt more like a dismissal than a solution. Such upgrades, ostensibly aimed at fortifying defences against cyberattacks, have instead sown doubt about the security and efficiency of these systems.

The upgrades, though necessary, come with inevitable growing pains. Migrating vast amounts of customer data and integrating it across multiple platforms—from ATMs to mobile apps—is complex and time-intensive. Customers, however, bear the brunt of these transitions, enduring weeks or even months of service disruptions that hinder daily transactions.

In the past quarter alone, several commercial banks in Nigeria have initiated IT upgrades to bolster their operations and prepare for an increasingly competitive future. While these efforts are laudable, they have had far-reaching effects, straining banking operations and customer satisfaction. 

The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) reports that the banking sector’s contribution to Nigeria’s GDP rose to 16.36% in Q2 2024, a testament to significant technological investments. Yet, for many, these figures are cold comfort amidst recurring downtimes and transaction failures.

Ademola’s weariness is palpable. She confides that her trust in traditional banking institutions, once the cornerstone of financial stability, is eroding. The persistent disruptions have cost her business revenue and undermined the basic operations on which her enterprise depends.

Lost Sales, Revenue, and Opportunities

The ripple effects of these banking failures are felt across various sectors. Rabi’u Bawa, a POS attendant, recounts her struggles: lost sales, revenue, and opportunities due to failed transactions. She still haunts the memory of a recent incident—a Sterling Bank system failure that left her unable to process payments. The frustrated customer walked away, leaving Bawa to shoulder the financial loss.

“This isn’t an isolated incident,” Bawa shares, her tone heavy with frustration. She’s frequently faced delayed payments and disputes stemming from unprocessed transactions. When her account is debited, but the recipient remains untouched, she finds herself mired in time-consuming and costly resolution processes, often at the expense of her reputation.

The disruptions have had devastating consequences for Adepoju Victor, an entrepreneur dealing with laptop repairs and phone accessories. “The stress and anxiety have taken a toll on my mental health,” he admits, his voice betraying sleepless nights spent worrying about his business. “The banks need to take responsibility for their actions and find a solution to this recurring problem.” His sentiment is echoed by many who have poured their resources and efforts into enterprises now threatened by systemic banking inefficiencies.

Service Disruptions Violate Customers’ Rights

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has warned financial institutions sternly about the crisis. According to a statement by Tunji Bello, the Commission’s Chief Executive Officer, these disruptions inconvenience customers and infringe upon their rights.

“Interruptions that impede customers from engaging in transactions or accessing essential funds are not merely an inconvenience,” Bello asserts. “They may constitute a violation of fundamental consumer rights.” The Commission’s stance underscores the urgency for banks to address these disruptions swiftly and decisively.

As customers continue to grapple with the fallout of these disruptions, Nigeria’s banking sector must balance technological advancements with reliable service delivery. Until then, entrepreneurs like Ademola, Bawa, and Victor have remained at the mercy of a system struggling to adapt to its progress.

By Wonderful Adegoke 

“I found several culture plates where none of the six antibiotics placed on them had any effect on the bacteria,” recalled Habibullah Ibuowo, a 400-level Medical Laboratory Science student. His startling discovery occurred during a 10-week clinical training required for Medical Laboratory Science (MLS) students. It was his first encounter with antimicrobial resistance (AMR), a problem growing quietly but dangerously in labs worldwide.

Ibuowo’s experience sparked a deeper interest in sensitivity testing, where bacteria are cultured alongside antibiotics to determine which drugs can effectively treat infections. But what intrigued him most was the unsettling reality of bacterial resistance to multiple antibiotics. Motivated by curiosity and concern, Ibuowo sought more information on AMR and soon became part of a student-driven initiative fighting this escalating threat. He joined the Usmanu Danfodiyo University Young Antimicrobial Resistance Stewards (UDUYARS).

UDUYARS is no ordinary student club. This pioneering initiative brings together a multidisciplinary team of students united by a shared mission: to fight the spread of AMR and confront related health challenges. Their efforts align with the global action plan on AMR and directly contribute to achieving Sustainable Development Goal 3—Good Health and Well-being. At the local level, UDUYARS raises awareness and protects the community’s health.

The club’s vision is nothing short of ambitious. Working with medical and non-medical innovators, UDUYARS aims to become a trailblazing force in the fight against AMR, developing innovative strategies and solutions that tackle the problem head-on. By equipping themselves with cutting-edge knowledge and tools, these students stand at the forefront of what the Bureau of Investigative Journalism has described as “disturbing first-hand evidence of what happens when drugs stop working.”

“I was more than happy to join hands with them to help spread the word,” Ibuowo shared, reflecting on his advocacy efforts. His role as a vocal advocate of antimicrobial stewardship has led him to engage peers, friends, and colleagues in critical conversations about the responsible use of antibiotics, the dangers of misuse, and the looming threat of AMR. Now serving as the Outreach Coordinator for the club, he participates in community outreach programs and has visited pediatric wards at the University Teaching Hospital (UDUTH) to educate young people on antimicrobial stewardship.

More Stories from AMR Advocates 

The ripple effect of UDUYARS has extended far beyond just one student. Adeleke Shakirat Adenike, a nursing science student, credits the club for transforming her professional perspective. “Before UDUYARS, I had only a basic understanding of AMR. I didn’t fully grasp its significance as a global threat,” she admitted. Through her involvement in outreach programs and presentations, Adenike has deepened her knowledge and gained the confidence to address the importance of AMR awareness to a broader audience.

“I’ve learned so much,” she added. “It’s been amazing to share that knowledge with my peers, and UDUYARS has given me a sense of purpose. It’s fostered a strong spirit of volunteerism in me, and it’s been incredibly fulfilling. My public speaking skills have also improved through this experience.”

The significance of AMR is hard to overstate, and UDUYARS continues to rally students from across disciplines in its campaign. Safiyyah Ismaeel, from the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Science, is keenly aware of the urgency. “We see the need to educate young people about AMR because this growing global issue is making infections harder and harder to treat,” she explained. “By working together, we can spread awareness across all departments and fight this menace.”

In the face of an ever-evolving health crisis, UDUYARS demonstrates how collective action, led by an inspired generation of students, can contribute to solving one of the most pressing public health challenges of our time.

By Wonderful Adegoke

Despite the growing consensus that achieving a first-class degree is increasingly difficult, Helen Ambi has proven that with perseverance and diligence, it’s attainable at any level.

Hailing from Sanga Local Government Area of Kaduna State, Helen Ambi developed an interest in Medical Laboratory Science after researching and reading about its versatility in the health sector. Thus, she applied to Usmanu Danfodiyo University (UDUS) to pursue her newfound passion.

“Initially, I never knew a course like Medical Laboratory Science existed,” she revealed. However, I chose it after researching and reading about its prospects and versatility in the health sector. I applied and was admitted on my first attempt. This convinced and made me glad that I chose this path.”

Like the thousands of students with varying dreams admitted every year, Helen Ambi’s journey to graduate with a first-class degree began, ultimately leading to her remarkable achievement.

The journey in UDUS

The glamour of being confined within the four walls of academia began gradually while Helen steadily pursued her dream of becoming a first-class degree holder. Alas, it began to dawn on her that she’d dreamt too far—hope faltering like the fading of a newly painted mural.

“Not that I didn’t aspire to graduate with a first-class,” she said. “I did. But when I saw my 100-level results, although they weren’t bad, I expected to start with a first-class because it’s often said that the journey begins as a ‘fresher.’

“I have always heard that if you want to graduate with a first-class, then you have to get it from 100-level because as you progress, your CGPA will ‘drop.’ Hearing that made me give up on bagging a first-class degree.”

The 4.3 grade points she obtained in the 100 level left her stressed, worn out, and frustrated and prompted her to re-strategize. “My friend Simnom helped me develop a new reading habit: night reading, which I would say helped me understand what time of the day was most suitable for my assimilation.

“I can’t express how I felt, but I know I was excited because the green lights were beginning to turn up,” she said, in appraisal of how her new strategy boosted her records to 4.47 in the 200-level and 4.46 in the 300-level.

The game changer

The School of Medical Laboratory Science (SMLS) has the best faculty in UDUS. The 400 level is known to be the toughest due to the bulkiness of the courses offered. Helen’s first-class journey began in her penultimate year.

“My 400-level was the game changer for me. I know it’s known as the most hectic and challenging level and probably the most difficult, but that’s where my story began. I achieved a grade point of 4.50 in my 400-level and 4.53 in my final year.”

In acknowledgement of the encouragement received from one of her lecturers, whom she simply identified as ‘Dr Festus,’ she said, “I became more determined to give my best to achieving a first-class degree.”

“I began having discussions with a few friends to learn new things because no one’s an island of knowledge. When our 400-level results were released, I discovered that it had greatly helped me.”

“Don’t Give Up” – Helen advises students

As a lover of research and volunteering activities, Helen intends to impact society by conducting research to tackle sickle cell disease. She has advised students to hold on to their dreams.

“Regardless of what people say or think, don’t give up on your dreams. Give your best to everything you do, including your academics. Having a good relationship with your colleagues is important because you can never know everything, and we learn from each other.”

By Yahaya T. Baba, PhD

Allah (SWT) is indeed the ultimate source of human life; to Him, we shall all return at His appointed time. It is a promise from the supreme being that every life must taste death. All human beings, regardless of their belief system, recognise death’s sanctity. Life without death makes no meaning. However, the meaningfulness of death to mankind fits only a few logically justifiable circumstances. These circumstances may include but are not limited to old age, terminal illness and death sentence for capital offences. Other than these and similar circumstances of the transitional nature of human life, human beings are fond of describing death as tragic, sudden, untimely, devastating and destructive. 

The nature of ill-feeling about death makes mourning habitual to mankind. Across cultural divides, therefore, the dead are mourned regardless of the natural or unnatural circumstances surrounding their death.  People who are in their prime times and full of life are usually heavily and severely mourned after their death. This is because their death is considered sudden, premature, and even truncated to their path of personal growth and development and their contributions to the growth and development of other people, communities, and humanity. This explains why mourners always refer to these kinds of deaths as tragic and devastating, comparable to even disasters of monumental scales. 

Someone’s death could mean the creation of a vacuum that is challenging and sometimes impossible to fill. This feeling after death is more familiar to teachers and scholars, particularly in sane societies. The death of scholars and intellectuals truly creates a vacuum that is difficult to fill. This is why rational societies pay great attention to their teachers’ and scholars’ livelihood, safety and security for long life in anticipation of prolonged and continuous service to humanity. 

In Nigeria, however, this category of people is among the least catered for. A good number of them in Nigeria, out of sheer neglect, die in mysterious circumstances, which is unacceptable in modern societies. Some had succumbed to death from common, avoidable, curable and manageable ailments. Others are victims of epidemics, pandemics, traffic accidents, plane crashes or violent crimes such as armed robbery, terrorism, insurgency, communal clashes and armed banditry. 

The Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, has, in recent times, lost a number of its top and seasoned academics to some of these unnatural causes of death. The long list of deceased Professors at the University in recent times includes, among others, Prof. Usman Argungu of the Biological Sciences, Prof. Aminu Isiyaka Yandaki of the History Department, Prof. Y.Y. Ibrahim, Islamic Studies Department, Lawal Abubakar, Nasiru Muhammad and A.I. Yakubu all of whom were Professors in the Faculty of Agriculture. Others include Prof. Bello Agaie of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Prof. Majeed of Biological Sciences and Professors Nasir Mukhtar Gatawa and Shehu DanHassan, both of the Department of Economics, as well as Prof. Mamman Audu Wasagu of the Faculty of Education, who died in a ghastly traffic accident. The last but one in this count was Prof. Muhammad Sani Sagir of the Physics Department in the Faculty of Physical and Computing Sciences. 

These seasoned and veteran scholars passed on in the last five or six years. In all of these episodes of recurring deaths, the University community was thrown into mourning and bewildered by the seeming value deficits of academics in Nigeria, mainly because of the circumstances of their death. Some died from a protracted illness, while the death of others has been termed as sudden and devastating. Some of these veterans succumbed to the COVID-19 pandemic, while others died as a result of the complications of their health condition during the ASUU prolonged industrial actions of 2020 and 2022.  

These professors died at a point in their academic career that was considered evolving, prime, or even the most productive in their professional cycle. They all left behind indelible marks in their respective teaching, research, mentorship and community service disciplines. Since the year 2020, year after year and sometimes within intervals of a few months, the academic community at the Usmanu Dnfodiyo University has been grieved and saddened by the deaths of not just its members but some of the finest and academically most productive elements among them. 

Since this tragic cycle of recurring deaths of scholars from this university, I have dedicated a little time in the past. I paid tributes through short but glowing testimonials of the deceased to show respect to people who served the knowledge industry with enthusiasm and dedication. However, instead of this sad moment being irregular, it is almost becoming recurring. At a point, my pen dried up, and the appetite to bid our veterans farewell diminished due to one death too many. 

However, this short break of tributes ended with the shocking news abruptly of the tragic death of Prof. Yusuf Sa’idu, who was, until his death, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Research, Innovation and Development of the Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto. From the time the news of his death was broken to the confirmation of the news up to the period of his funeral and the third-day Fiidda’u (prayer) in his remembrance, I have been engulfed in sober moments of reflections on his life, career and relationship with the people. 

My encounters with him at different times over the years and the testimonies of various people about his life influenced my decision to bid him farewell with a tribute befitting of his personality and life. The caption of this tribute truly reflects my understanding of Prof. Yusuf Sai’idu and the people’s testimonies about him. He was indeed an icon of scholarship and an embodiment of humility that has been tragically and suddenly lost to annihilators, breaded by structural injustice, aided by insensitive and incompetent rulers and officials at all levels of politics and governance in Nigeria.

The dying moments of the afternoon of Monday, the 24th day of June 2024, were intense grief for the family, colleagues, relatives, friends, students and well-wishers of the late iconic scholar and humble personality. For those who got the news earlier, their hearts melted with shock and bewilderment. The news thus spread quickly like wildfire. It eventually became a Black Monday in the Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto and the academic community in Nigeria. There were calls everywhere probing the sources and spuriousness of the news. All callers were anxiously hoping that the news could be fake or a mistaken identity but to no avail. It eventually dawned on us that the devastating news was real and the worst had happened. How I got the message was immensely grieving and tormenting. 

It was some minutes after the Hour of 3 pm, and I had a hard knock and a bash on my door at the same time while I was busy with my laptop. I furiously looked up to see who was, without courtesy, gatecrashing into my office. It was my Deputy Dean, Prof. Jimoh Amzat (the Great JAO), as we fondly call him. He asked frantically,  wearing grief and shocks on his face. Is it true that bandits killed the DVC Research, Innovation and Development? At a stretch, I couldn’t even figure out what he was asking or what sort of strange enquiry he was making. He repeated himself furiously with a sad voice and weak gestures. Only then did my senses reconnect, and I said how, why, where and by who. He responded that Prof. Aminu Bayawa had posted it on the RI&D WhatsApp platform. Again, the shocks in me increased, as Prof. Bayawa was a close friend of the deceased and worked directly under his office as the Director of Research, Innovation and Development. However, I quickly checked the ASUU WhatsApp platform to fact-check the story, but there was no such post then. Moments later, I saw the information posted by Prof. Sahabi Mahuta, another close friend and colleague of the deceased in the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. That was enough confirmation of the tragic loss of a complete gentleman. 

After the confirmation, Prof. Jimoh lamented over and over again, “This is not how to die, Prof.” But the worst had already happened, and the reflections of the life and times of the humble Professor continued between us before we were joined by Prof. Ibrahim Dankani who came to fact-check the news. All of us were profoundly mourning and stressing the good character of our colleague. We all agreed on two of the most apparent traits of Prof. Yusuf Sa’idu: scholarship and humility. If these are not the trademarks of intellectuals, our understanding of these two qualities of his deserves special mention and acknowledgement because he embodied these virtuous attributes. 

If there is anyone in my assessment to whom I should attribute the trait of humility as his personality, I will hardly skip Prof. Saidu. This attribute has become an ascription that made his personality. The testimonials of this claim are justifiably overwhelming from different categories of people familiar with our deceased colleague. As teachers and scholars expected to symbolise humility as a guiding principle of knowledge production and advancement, Prof. Saidu has thrown us a huge challenge. He did his utmost best and lived up to the expectations of an iconic scholar, symbolising humility as an indelible trademark of a scholar. This is because knowledge and humility are inseparable. Thus, to be a scholar, one must also be humble. This is a global cultural heritage of scholarship and the teaching profession.

 It is often said that knowledge and humility are intertwined. Humility is the path to acquiring useful and quality knowledge. Most scholars are humble because humility increases the craving for new knowledge. Many scholars imbibe humility only as an inevitable virtue of knowledge-seeking individuals. Thus, in advancing scholarship, students and scholars are guided by the principle of humility. However, there is a difference between humility in pursuing knowledge and humility as a way of life. This is where Prof. Yusuf Sai’idu was exceptional and noteworthy.  

He stood out conspicuously tall among his colleagues. He wore the trademark of humility naturally in his disposition and in relations with people around him and with other people he met, even at first instances. This is a quality attested to by everyone who knew and interacted with Prof. Sa’idu.  Unlike other categories of scholars who are only humble in their path to seeking knowledge, Prof. Sa’idu carried with him the trait of humility in all ramifications of his relations with the people.   

At every contact with him, regardless of your status, low or high, he welcomes you with smiles and accommodation; he maintains such smiling postures and accommodation throughout the conversations and bids you farewell with such smiling, grinning and cheerful facial expressions. Everyone that meets him wantsto meet him again. This is regardless of the issues at stake in the conversations. This humble nature of Prof. Sa’idu didn’t compromise his steadfastness in upholding truth, rules, regulations and guiding principles in formal and informal engagements and activities. He was not economical with the truth but very diplomatic in telling the truth and insisting on the truth. If he had studied Political Science and/or Diplomacy, we could have had an excellent diplomat who could solve complex gridlocks and stalemates. Many facts about his life proved the naturality and originality of his humility.

From the brief biography of the late revered professor of biochemistry, he graduated from the top of his class in 1990, earning him the Northco Holdings Prize for being the best-graduating student in biochemistry. However, in one of my direct conversations with him, he told me how he took up an appointment as a teacher in secondary school because of his passion for the knowledge industry. He didn’t at that time push for an appointment with the University or any Higher Institution of learning but humbly pursued a career as a teacher in secondary school. He told me that he was posted to Kontagora as a teacher and gradually began to build a career there. To prove his greater thirst for knowledge and humility, he enrolled in an M.Sc programme at the University of Jos and completed it with outstanding results. In 1994, he taught at secondary school. He waited until 1998 when the opportunity presented itself for an appointment at the Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto 1998. 

This adventure was the countdown to a glorious academic career that came to an abrupt end on Monday,  the 24th day of June 2024, through a mysterious incident that all of us have the government of this country to blame for being insensitive, ineptitude and incompetent in the management of the affairs of the people for whom they govern on their behalf. I had interacted with him officially and unofficially for different purposes. As a member of the University Fellowship Committee, which he coordinated, as a member of the University Journals Committee and on matters of Tetfund National Research Fund  (NRF)and Institutional Based Research (IBR) as well as on different other official and unofficial matters. 

In all of my interactions with him, I saw in him a near-perfect gentleman. His humility drives smoothly every aspect of the work he led. It is, therefore, not a surprise that he became the scholar he was until his death. He is widely published and won numerous research grants, which he successfully coordinated and executed. All of us know how difficult it is to work with colleagues, particularly on research grants, but it wasn’t an issue of much concern for him. He was among the young professors at the Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, who presented their inaugural lectures. As a Nutritional Biochemist, Diabetics Not a Death Sentence was his topic. It attracted huge scholarly attention and instigated a series of other inaugural lectures from young Professors in the university.    This trademark is thus a great stride to emulate for academic excellence.

The humble nature of our late colleague is noticeable not only in the scholarship business. Even beyond the university, Prof. Sa’idu’s marker and identifier was humility. The congregation that attended his funeral attested mainly to this fact. Although members of the University community populated the congregation, it was nearly divided between people in town and the people in town. The community in which he lived outside the university appeared to even mourn him severely and dearly compared to his colleagues. Their testimonies about him, his humility, and his generosity were outpouring among them, as they claimed to have lost one of them who had no equal. The choice of his residence is a clear testimony of the claim made mainly by the community members. He built his house in a deep local community, reminiscent of a slum. The location of his house is even more profound than the community inhabitants. His idea was to melt in the community and contribute to the livelihood of the people of the community. He did just that. 

At his residence, he built a mosque and an Islamic school where community members attend and their children are educated. He also supported the education of many children in the community whose parents were reluctant to educate their children because of poverty. At the funeral, I met one local person who lamented bitterly about the loss of Prof Sa’idu. He argued that he is a living beneficiary of Prof’s humble gestures. He said he supported him in establishing his company, volunteered as a director of the company,and was always supportive of the growth and development of the company. They built excellent relations so much that he trusted him with many dealings. This is humility beyond scholarship. Many similar conversations and testimonies were countless to the credit of this great person who left us in his prime time and when he was full of healthy life.

This tribute is indeed from one who barely knows him. I have not been close to him, but I have only had opportunities to interact with him on a few official and unofficial occasions. Even then, I learned a lot from him, and his death taught me good lessons in my academic and human career. Let me, therefore, use this opportunity to offer additional condolences to Prof. Sa’idu’s family. He left behind three wives and twenty-one children. 

The grief of his loss is weighty in your hearts. He was indeed a good and caring husband and father. You all have to take solace in the fact Prof Sa’idu lived a humble, generous, productive and exemplary life. All of you should be proud of him. The good he has done in life will come back to you indirectly. But you should follow in his footsteps and continue to fly the flag he raised of humility and hard work. Your obligation to him now is to pray for Jannatul Firdaus to be his final abode. The pains are enormous for his parents, but returning all matters to almighty Allah will comfort you. Yours is continuous prayers for his gentle soul to earn the highest place in Jannatul Firdaus. 

For the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Lawal Suleiman Bilbis, no one except his immediate family is equal to you in terms of the pains of the departure of your mentee. You typically raised him as an academic son, from his undergraduate days to his maturity as a sterling scholar and at various academic and professional development levels. You provided all the necessary support for him growing up, and he has supported you in many of your academic, professional and administrative endeavours. This colossal loss is for you but shared with many within and beyond the university community. Sir, your efforts, investments and sacrifices for Prof. Yusuf Sa’idu are not in vain. You built someone that built communities. 

You should be proud of what you did and of your product. To the entire university community and, indeed, the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), to which the deceased had been a loyal and committed member, the grief and sorrow is for us to endure and be energised to continue in the struggle for decent and improved conditions of service as well as a favourable and serene environment for academic excellence.

May the Almighty Allah grant the soul of Prof. Yusuf Sa’idu eternal rest, may Jannatul Firdausi be his final abode, and may the family he left behind be protected, guided and provided for by the grace and mercies of Allah Subhanahu Wata’ala, amin Ya Rabbi.

Adieu, rest in peace, our dear brother, friend, and colleague.

Yahaya T. Baba, PhD, wrote from the Department of Political Science, Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto. . He can be reached at yahaya.baba@udusok.edu.ng or tkbabayaha@yahoo.com.

By Anas Abbas

A Kano Islamic scholar, Sheikh Aminu Ibrahim Daurawa, stated that Hausa films can be important in shaping society.

He stated this at a symposium on Hausa film, culture, religion, among others, which was held via Zoom on Wednesday, July 10, 2024.

It was attended by other academic scholars and notable figures.

During the event, Sheikh Daurawa was quoted as saying, “We cannot stop Hausa film in our society; rather, we should use it to bring positive change , especially in our politics, economy, and even social lives.”

He encouraged the academics to use the medium to promote positive change, saying, “let the academic intellectuals bring film stories that will sharpen and change people’s behaviour.”  

Sheikh Daurawa also announced that Hisbah will venture into film production, focusing on stories that align with Islamic Shari’ah.

This move aims to promote values and principles that align with Islamic teachings. 

The symposium participants engaged in lively discussions on the potential of Hausa films to influence culture, religion, and societal values. 

The symposium featured a diverse range of speakers, including Professor Abdallah Uba Adamu from the faculty of communication at Bayero University, Kano; Prof. Aliyu Muhammad Bunza from the department of Nigerian languages at Usman Danfodiyo University, Sokoto; Dr. Hadiza Salihu Koko from Shehu Shagari College of Education, Sokoto, and Prof. Ibrahim Mulumfashi from the Department of Nigerian Languages at Kaduna State University, Kaduna. 

The event tried to potray the need for responsible content creation and the importance of leveraging media for positive impact. 

Sheikh Daurawa’s call to action and Hisbah’s entry into film production are expected to spark a new wave of creative and values-driven content in the Hausa film industry.

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

The Vice Chancellor of Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, Prof. L.S. Bilbis, has invited the general public to a virtual symposium titled “FINAFINAN HAUSA DA ZAMANTAKEWAR MAGIDANTA: INA AKA DOSA?”

The symposium, scheduled for July 10, 2024, at 10:00 AM West Central Africa time, will explore the intersection of Hausa culture and religion. 

Featuring in the event are Prof. A.M. Bunza, Prof. I.A. Malumfashi, Sheikh Aminu Ibrahim Daurawa, Ado Ahmad Gidan Dabino, and Dr. Hadiza Salihu Koko.

Prof. Abdallah Uba Adamu will chair the cultural event. 

The virtual symposium can be accessed via Zoom using the meeting ID: 619 7601 3625 and passcode: 632535. 

The university invites all interested individuals to join the virtual symposium and engage in the discussion on Hausa culture and religion. 

However, no further details on the specific topics or themes to be discussed have been provided.

By Jamilu M. Magaji

In the weaving of life, exceptional individuals leave a lasting impression on the hearts and minds of those they meet. Today, I grieve the loss of a truly extraordinary person who exemplified greatness through his steadfast dedication to his beliefs, compassion for humanity, and inspiring leadership that influenced many lives.

I was tidying up titbits for the June issue of FUBK Chronicle Magazine when I received a call from my former senior colleague, Mal. Abubakar Adamu recently retired from Federal University Birnin Kebbi (FUBK). He delivered the shocking news that prevented me from continuing my work until the following day. Social media was flooded with continuous updates on the tragic event. I hurried to pick up my children from school and return home, filled with sorrow and dismay.

When I joined the services of FUBK in 2014, I questioned the future of my career progression in the newly established institution. I pondered the obstacles of starting a new department, particularly as a founding staff member. My encounter with Prof. Yusuf Saidu proved to be fruitful. I worked closely with him for nearly seven years, serving as Chairman and Secretary of various committees. He was crucial in establishing the Federal University Birnin Kebbi Seminar Series as the founding Chairman in 2015.

Prof. Yusuf Saidu exemplified integrity and exceptional qualities. His extensive administrative and professional expertise positively influenced my professional development and the institution we both served. I believed he was destined for greater achievements. His diligent work ethic and inspiring nature served as a beacon of motivation for many. His leadership approach was exceptional, earning trust in carrying out demanding tasks assigned to him.

Yusuf Saidu is a Professor of Nutritional Biochemistry at the Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto (UDUS), Nigeria. He graduated in 1990 with a B.Sc. degree in Biochemistry from UDUS, winning the Northco Holdings prize for the best-graduating student in Biochemistry. He obtained an M.Sc. in Biochemistry from the University of Jos in 1994 with distinction and had his PhD in Biochemistry from the UDUS in 2005. 

Bandits killed Prof. Yusuf Saidu on June 24, 2024, en route to Kaduna for an official engagement. Until his sudden death, Prof. Saidu was the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Research, Innovation and Development of UDUS. He was the Director Research, Innovation and Development, UDUS and the University Governing Council member representing Convocation. He served as a member of the TETFUND Standing Committee on Research and Development and a member of the National Research Fund Screening and Monitoring Committee. He was equally a member of the Education and Training Committee of the International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. Prof. Saidu was the Head, Department of Biochemistry, UDUS (2018-2020) and the pioneer Head of the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University Birnin Kebbi. He also led many other ad-hoc and standing committees at UDUS and FUBK.

Prof. Saidu, a Fellow of the Nigerian Society of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (FNSBMB), was widely published with over 100 papers and three (3) patents to his credit. He attracted research grants from the Education Trust Fund (now Tertiary Education Trust Fund), Abuja, Nigeria; the International Foundation for Science (IFS), Sweden; Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC) and Science and Technology Education Post Basic (STEP-B). His research interests are in oxidative stress and pathogenesis of diabetes mellitus/hypertension, as well as the elucidation of the mechanism of action of medicinal plants used to manage diabetes mellitus and infant and preschool children.

As a visionary leader, Prof. Yusuf Saidu motivated others to achieve their full potential and strive for excellence in all their endeavours. He set a remarkable example, guiding them with wisdom, patience, and unwavering support. His ability to lead with integrity and humility earned him the respect and admiration of all his colleagues, leaving behind a legacy of empowerment and growth that continues to influence those he mentored.

In 2021, I paid tribute to his appointment as the pioneer Deputy Vice Chancellor of Research, Innovation, and Development at UDUS. I recalled a citation from Prof. Sahabi Danladi Mahuta during Prof. Yusuf Saidu’s inaugural lecture in 2017, where he boasted of having a great friend in Prof. Saidu. I, too, celebrated and acknowledged him as a remarkable mentor. Today, with a sense of longing, I mourn the loss of my esteemed mentor.

Prof. Saidu was a leader, mentor and guiding light in a world often clouded by darkness. His remarkable attributes, profound religious dedication, compassionate qualities, and forward-thinking leadership have had a lasting impact on all who know him. As we say goodbye to a cherished mentor and father, let us carry on his legacy of love, empathy, and leadership, ensuring that his memory remains alive in those he influenced and guided.

I express my sincere condolences to the immediate family of the deceased. I also sympathise with all his extended family members in the academic community at UDUS, UNIJOS, FUBK and the entire country.

May his spirit continue to inspire us, his light keep shining brightly, and his legacy of exceptionalism always be cherished in our hearts. May Allah (SWT) grant him eternal bliss in Aljannah. Ameen

Malam Jamilu Magaji, Head of Information and Public Relations at Federal University Birnin Kebbi, wrote via mjmagaji@gmail.com.

By Mutalib Jibril

With ten awards and a CGPA of 4.88, Abdulsalam Ibrahim recently emerged as the best-graduating student of the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Usmanu Danfodio University, Sokoto, for the 2022/2023 academic session. In this interview with Mutalib Jibril, after the Induction ceremony held on May 10, 2024, he speaks about his educational journey and how he achieved this feat.

Who is Abdulsalam Ibrahim?

Abdulsalam Ibrahim was born to the family of Alhaji Hussaini Abdulsalam and Hajiya Bashirah Ibrahim Abdulsalam in Minna, Niger state. I hail from Zungeru, Wushishi L.G.A of Niger State. I’m the fifth child of a family of six. I had my Primary and Secondary education at Minna before proceeding to the then School of Matriculation Studies, UDUS. I was admitted to study pharmacy at the most prestigious faculty of pharmaceutical sciences, UDUS.

With a Grade Index of 4.88, you emerged as the 2022/2023 best-graduating student of the faculty of pharmacy. How was this possible?

Alhamdulillah for the blessings of Allah upon me. Emerging as the best-graduating student is only possible because Allah has destined it to be so. Numerous factors contributed to this being a reality. Many of which are external and beyond my control. It couldn’t have been the hard work or the consistency. Many of my classmates were more hard-working and consistent. In summary, pray to the Almighty Allah always, try your best in a healthy manner and leave the rest. What Allah wishes for you will always prevail whether you like it.

Why did you choose to study Pharmacy?

 I never chose pharmacy. Allah chose pharmacy for me. After completing the school of matriculation studies, UDUS (2016/2017 set). I was admitted to study medicine and surgery at the university. However, due to some challenges the university faced with JAMB, some of our admissions had to be changed to other courses. It was a bitter experience for me because I wanted medicine. After attending some lectures on the History and Ethics of Pharmacy, a course offered at 100 level. I became interested in the profession and decided not to write another JAMB. The rest is history.

Would you say you knew you were going to be the best–graduating student?

Not until some days before the induction did I know. Of course, the chances were high because I always had one of the best results in my class right from 100 level. The class was competitive with many hardworking, consistent, outstanding and intelligent scholars. Hence, the name “Mavericks” class of 2022”. The environment was encouraging because everyone contributed, and there was always much to learn. Alhamdulillah

What was your reading schedule like?

I don’t have a specific reading schedule. Pharmacy is overwhelming, with extended hours of lectures and practicals. The time available is always not enough. You keep studying even when you get tired. To pass a course with 50% as the pass mark is not for the lazy. Some courses even require a minimum of 60%. So, I was able to adapt to the system. The time at my disposal always determines my reading schedule for that particular time, except for my 100-level days when there was ample time to study during the day and sleep at night.

Which area of the course did you find most interesting?

Clinical pharmacy (therapeutics) and pharmaceutical microbiology.

How many awards did you receive? Please list them

10 awards, Alhamdulillah. These are:

– PCN award for the best-graduating student.

– Nigerian Association of Pharmacists in Academia (NAPA) award for the best graduating student.

– The faculty of Pharmaceutical sciences, UDUS award for best-graduating student.

– Award for the best-graduating student in clinical pharmacy and pharmacy practice.

– Board of Fellows of Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria award for the best graduating student in clinical pharmacy and pharmacy practice.

– Award for the best-graduating student from Niger State.

– The faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences has a UDUS certificate of distinction.

– PSN, Kebbi state cash award for the best-graduating student.

– Centre For Advanced Medical Research and Training (CAMRET) cash award for the best-graduating student.

– Bioraj Pharmaceuticals cash award for the best-graduating student.

Did you engage in extracurricular activities or take up leadership roles during your stay at the university?

Yes, there were some leadership roles. I served as the Asst. Sec. Gen., Pharmaceutical Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria (PMSSN). I also served as deputy Ameer, PMSSN. I was part of the Imams at the Masjid in Amanawa Hostel for two sessions. I served as deputy Ameer Association of Muslim Health Students(AHMS).

I was Organizing Secretary NANISS Health wing (National Association of Niger State Students). I served as Sec. Gen., PANISS (Pharmaceutical Association of Niger State Students). And also President PANISS.

What was your best and lowest moment while in school?

My best moment was at the 200 level, when I passed all my courses with distinction, while my lowest moment was at the 300 level.

What are your future aspirations in your field?

I want to be a specialist in cardiovascular therapeutics or psychiatry. This will help me give back to society in a community or hospital setting. If Allah so wishes, I would like to be a researcher and teacher in clinical pharmacy or pharmaceutical microbiology.

What would be your advice to students aiming to attain academic excellence?

Restrict yourself from toxic situations. Know your limits. Maintain your physical and mental well-being. In academic settings, the brain does the work. You can easily achieve a lot in little time with a healthy lifestyle. 

Secondly, you need to start strong and be consistent throughout. Your academic performance is a cumulative result of your effort from the 100 level. Additionally, always start reading early to grasp the concepts efficiently. This also allowsfor repetitive study. Proper understanding always saves the day. 

Finally, always pray to Allah in everything you do. Eat well, sleep well, work hard, and trust in Allah.

By Jamilu M. Magaji 

Nigerians from all walks of life have been urged to embrace local productions with a view to tackling exchange rate volatility and promoting sustainable economic growth in the country. A professor of Financial Economics from Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto (UDUS), Prof. AU Sanda, made the call at Federal University Birnin Kebbi (FUBK) during the 21st Seminar titled “Exchange Rate Volatility in Nigeria: Lessons and Policy Implications,” on Tuesday.

The Seminar, chaired by Professor AS Mikailu, tripartite former Vice Chancellor of UDUS, Kaduna, and Nasarawa States Universities, was attended by members of academia, Ministries, Departments, and Agencies, as well as other public and private organizations.

Prof. Sanda, a first-class economist of high repute, highlighted a number of variables that appear to correlate well with exchange rate volatility, which include interest rate, money supply, inflation (foreign reserves and for an oil exporting country) and crude oil prices. He described the exchange rate as the price of local currency in exchange for a foreign currency, noting that it is also an important economic variable with huge potential to affect lives and livelihoods, as Nigeria’s recent experience has simply demonstrated.

“Interest rate hikes to tame inflation have been accompanied by a surge in money supply, rendering the initial policy to stymie inflation difficult to achieve, He said.”

He lamented that when inflation rises, a country’s currency will depreciate, as experienced in Nigeria when petrol prices rose in response to President Tinubu’s announcement on May 29, 2023, of his government’s plans to remove fuel subsidies. He stressed that foreign reserves, when they are buoyant, could strengthen a country’s currency, while for oil exporting countries, an increase in the crude oil price should help strengthen the currency as long as the foreign exchange management system allows some flexibility.

“If you are engaged in purchasing whatever goods from outside the shores of this country, be it furniture or whatever, then you are a party to this”. He said

“So, taming this menace is a collective responsibility from fiscal and monitory authorities down to the citizenry. We all have a role to play by at least embracing local productions, a key to sustainability and economic growth,” he added

Prof. Sanda advised fiscal authorities to undertake policies that assist the monetary authorities in maintaining stability in the foreign exchange market, noting that growth in money supply should be accompanied by economic growth. He cautioned that where the former grows faster than the latter, inflation (and foreign exchange volatility) will be the inevitable consequence, and there is a need to adopt the proposed methodology for the measurement of the exchange rate of the naira.

In his remarks, Vice Chancellor of FUBK, Prof. MZ Umar, noted that the recurring exchange rate volatility in Nigeria is also associated with reckless hoarding and exchange of goods and services with foreign currencies. He called on government and other regulatory agencies to intensify efforts towards promoting economic growth and development in the country.

“The efforts of the CBN to calm nerves and reduce naira volatility in Nigeria is commendable, although more need to be done by the appex bank and other regulatory agencies in this is regard,” said the VC.

He thanked the presenter and participants, while pleading for sustained frequency of the seminar series in the institution.