Tribute To Gen Dambazau, Baradan Kano

By Tajudeen Akanji*

Today, I celebrate the extraordinary life and accomplishments of a man whose presence in my life has been nothing short of a blessing.
The man, Lt General Abdulrahman Bello Dambazau is a phenomenon and a God-sent change-maker in this country. As he marks his seventieth birthday, I pay tribute to a great brother, friend, and benefactor whose unwavering commitment to excellence has left an indelible mark on academia, military service, and government, locally and internationally.
Born with a passion for knowledge and a relentless drive for success, our man embraced academic challenges with zeal and determination. As a scholar, he pursued intellectual pursuits with unmatched vigour, earning accolades and respect in the hallowed halls of learning. His thirst for knowledge and his unwavering pursuit of truth have inspired generations of learners, setting a high standard for academic excellence that few can match.
In the realm of military service, our esteemed leader proved himself a pillar of strength and courage. With valour and integrity, he donned his uniform and faced the challenges of the battlefield with unwavering resolve. His leadership and strategic acumen propelled him to the highest ranks, where he commanded with honour, guided with wisdom, and served with distinction, earning the admiration and respect of his comrades and superiors alike. He rose to the zenith of his career, with the rare privilege of leading the Army of the most populous Black Country in the world.
Beyond his military exploits, our beloved brother has also ventured into the realm of government service, where his visionary leadership and impeccable judgment have helped shape policies and decisions that have had far-reaching impacts both locally and on the global stage. His dedication to public service, his commitment to the common good, and his unwavering belief in the power of diplomacy and cooperation have earned him a reputation as a statesman of the highest order. As the interior minister of Nigeria, his record of service is a testimony of the excellent quality that he is endowed with.
As we reflect on the seventy years that our dear father, grandfather, brother, friend, and benefactor has graced this world with his presence, we are reminded of the profound impact one individual can have on the lives of so many. His legacy of excellence, his spirit of service, and his unwavering commitment to making the world a better place stand as a beacon of inspiration for us all.
On this momentous occasion, I raise my voice to pray to Allah to continue to bless a remarkable man whose life has been a testament to the power of dedication, perseverance, and love. May the years ahead be filled with joy, peace, and fulfilment, and may his light continue to shine brightly, illuminating the paths of those who follow in his footsteps.
Happy seventieth birthday to my dear brother, friend, and benefactor. May your days be blessed with happiness, health, and the knowledge that your legacy will endure for generations to come.
Cheers to a life well-lived and to many more years of greatness ahead! In the end, may Allah make your hereafter better than the present life. I am particularly proud of this enigma and will continue to sing his songs everywhere. Ilali amam in Sha Allah.

*Akanji, was the former Director of the Institute of Peace and Conflict Studies, at the University of Ibadan.