My Boss, My Mentor, My Father Figure, Dr. Ganduje: A Leader of Integrity and Compassion
By: Dr. Sagir S. Buhari FCIA
As I reflect on my journey, I am reminded of the profound impact that His Excellency, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, CON, PhD, has had on my life. To me, he is more than just a leader; he is a mentor, a father figure, and a guiding light who has shaped my perspective and approach to life. Indeed, the Ganduje I know will definitely bounce back strong, knowing when to step down, stategise and when to act, always staying one step ahead. This strategic thinking is one of the reasons I call him the Master of the Game of Politics. His ability to navigate complex situations, build coalitions, and drive progress toward common goals is truly remarkable.
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Dr. Ganduje’s leadership style is characterized by a clear vision, a strong sense of purpose, and a commitment to a positive difference in the lives of others. He consistently brings people together and drives progress toward common goals. His humility and devotion to his faith are qualities I deeply admire, recognizing that power and authority belong to Allah Subhanahu Wata Ala, and this sense of reverence guides his actions and decisions.
Building on this foundation, I have had the privilege of working closely with Dr. Ganduje and witnessing his leadership firsthand. One thing I admire about Dr. Ganduje is his commitment to Islam. He has been instrumental in building mosques and schools and propagating the faith. I recall sending him a video about a town in Kano State with no Muslims; he promptly called me and asked me to investigate further so he could send people to propagate Islam to the community. This demonstrates his dedication to spreading Islamic teachings.
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As my boss and father figure, Dr. Ganduje has provided me with invaluable guidance, support, and encouragement. He has helped me grow personally and professionally, and I’m grateful for the opportunities he has provided. His leadership has inspired me, and I aspire to emulate his qualities. Throughout my time working with Dr. Ganduje, I have witnessed his unwavering commitment to public service and his passion for making a positive difference.
My journey with Dr. Ganduje began when I first worked for him privately with our publishing company, promoting his image. This experience not only deepened my understanding of his leadership but also earned me his trust. Later, he appointed me as Senior Special Assistant (Office of the Governor), and subsequently, as Director General, Research and Documentation, Government House. He further entrusted me with key roles, including Co-Chairman of the Visitation Panel for Yusuf Maitama Sule University (now North West University) and Member of the Governing Council, School of Higher Education and Preliminary Studies. Additionally, he recommended my name to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, leading to my appointment as a Member of the Governing Council, Federal University of Science and Technology, Kabo.
One thing I’ll be forever grateful to His Excellency, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, is that he mentored me to excel administratively and encouraged me to become an author. Under his guidance, my books have crossed international boundaries, and I continue to benefit from his mentorship to this day. (Alhamdulillah) to Allah Subhanahu Wata Ala be the glory.
I’ll be forever grateful to His Excellency Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje for being an exemplary leader, mentor, and father figure. I’m honored to have worked with him, and I pray that Allah blesses him with continued success and good health. His legacy will continue to inspire me.
Dr. Sagir S. Buhari FCIA
(Studied Political Science and International Relations)
buharisageer@gmail.com
