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31 Year Old Adamu Tilde’s Journey To PHD

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Adamu Tilde

 

By Marzuq Ungogo

“We did it. Your friend has been awarded a Ph.D.” As I read this exciting text from Adamu Tilde on Tuesday, I couldn’t contain my excitement and shouted out in joy. If I scared the people in the building, I know they would forgive this “first time” and would have wondered if I had won a lottery.

When I talked on phone later in the day with Adamu, we couldn’t help go down memory lane reminiscing about all the challenges faced. Suddenly his journey became clear in front of our eyes, how determined he had been, how much he worked for it and how he completely earned it.

In 2016, Adamu and I decided that going by our predilection for inquiry and love for learning and imparting knowledge, academia is our most logical destination. To be successful academics, we know how important obtaining PhD is and we had to start as soon as possible. At that time, Adamu completed a Master’s degree from a Hungarian university (in style) and I also was just about to return home after an MSc in the UK.

So we came up with 2 plans;

1. To apply for PhD studentship in 2 Nigerian universities
2. To apply for as many international PhD scholarships as possible

We went to work and by my count I applied for more than 20 scholarships. While waiting for responses from the these scholarships, Adamu was offered an admission in UDU Sokoto while I got admission into ABU Zaria. So, we decided to begin our PhD journeys in early 2017 in Nigeria all the while keeping fingers crossed on the international scholarships. The plan was to pursue the Nigerian PhD to the best we can, but leave if we got better offers abroad in good time.

But it was not easy decision to make considering all the negative testimonies around. We consulted so many people for about it, and most were pessimistic. In fact very few people could understand why 26-year old boys with First Class Master degrees from Europe would be desperate to start a PhD in Nigeria. But we stood by one logic- we need and want it, and in a few years to come we would either have it or be in the process. We knew if we didn’t start and were not able to get what we hoped (a scholarship abroad), we would only have a regret in years to come. After all, one mentor (Dr Abdurrazak Ibrahim “Biorazi”) said it was at least not a bad investment to pay 150k and listen to experienced professors for a year!

Adamu was earlier called by Bauchi state government officials with acknowledgement of his achievement in Hungary, and pledge to sponsor him for PhD in UK or any other foreign university of his choice. They made it look so real with clear instructions like “just bring us admission letters anywhere in the world”. Knowing fully the uncertainty of Nigerian politicians, he went ahead and accepted the PhD admission at UDUS first. Today, he would have regretted putting all his eggs in the past Bauchi government’s basket.

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I remember Adamu left his business and took a chance with his life savings in far away Sokoto. But he didn’t just study in Sokoto, “he hustled too”. He started poultry farm with friends and later even got an NGO job in Sokoto and some gigs in Abuja. That way Adamu was shuttling between 2 jobs and a PhD. A year into the program he was offered an academic job at Dutse, with a part-leave agreement that he could continue his studies in Sokoto but show up to teach. That means for some months he had to move around Abuja, Sokoto, Bauchi and Dutse!

A Rejoinder To Adamu Tilde On Missing Opportunities By Northerners

On my own part, I also was combining farming and NGO job in Kano with a PhD studies in Zaria for 6 months before I was offered a job in my faculty in Zaria. That way I was able to “settle in one place”. In 2018, I got a sponsorship offer for a PhD in UK and I left. As for my friend, offers abroad came when he was far into his lab work at UDUS, and he decided to stay home and complete what he was enjoying.

There are many challenges associated with postgraduate research degrees in Nigeria. One big challenge is that one has to to self-sponsor themselves. Others are instability of the academic calendar, “wicked” supervisor, and inadequate/lack of equipment and materials. Many people felt that we were just wasting our time starting a PhD in Nigeria, but we know that it was the best decision to make -using what is available. But all these challenges did not stop my friend from completing his lab work and thesis writing in the minimum 3 academic sessions because he was determined.

By early 2020, Adamu has completed his Lab-work and thesis. As fate would have it COVID-19 pandemic started and Nigerian universities also went on strike. What looked like a simple break turned to complete disruption and it took until this week for him to defend his thesis.

Looking back, I think there are lessons fellow young people especially in Northern Nigeria would learn from Adamu’s experiences.

1. Just do it, because if you don’t, time will still pass and you will still have to do it.
2. Leave your comfort zone, you may not know what is in stores for you somewhere. Didn’t I tell you that my friend got a nice NGO job in Sokoto, started a poultry farm and consultancy there?
3. Use what is available at every material time. Many of us fail to utilise available opportunities and get fixated with “what may not be”, then end up getting none.
4. It is still possible: we often get discouraged by the many terrible stories around especially about MSc or PhD in Nigeria. That way we lose without even making any attempts. Everybody’s circumstances are different and from experience I know postgraduate students are not completely blameless themselves.
5. One good step leads to another: in the journey to career and self-development, one good step opens many opportunities. Adamu landed his dream academic job partly because he is already a PhD in-view. Employers always love a candidate that has gone an extra length. With shortages of PhD holders in Nigerian academia (especially in the north), it’s hard to turn down a candidate who is already enrolled in a PhD. So if you want to be in that system, here is a model for you.

As the external examiner announced Adamu Tilde a PhD holder at 31 on Tuesday, I know one thing was on his mind ”I made it”. As Adamu drove home the following day from far away Sokoto, he definitely was pleased with his decisions to leave Tilden Fulani in 2017. It was a journey to remember.

Congratulations once again Dr Adamu Tilde. May you continue to inspire and impact us with your work and your achievements!

Marzuq Abubakar Ungogo wrote this from Glasgow

Features

Ibrahim Ayyuba Isah: From Journalism to Shaping the Future of PR and Digital Marketing

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Ibrahim Ayyuba Isah

 

Ibrahim Ayyuba Isah, a distinguished journalist with over a decade of experience, has made a significant transition into the dynamic fields of public relations, creative, and digital marketing. Known for his in-depth reporting and insightful analysis, Isah is now leveraging his extensive journalism background to make a substantial impact in his new ventures.

Isah’s career began with a strong foundation in journalism, where he worked with prominent media houses such as Africa Independent Television (AIT), Raypower FM, and Rahma Radio. His roles ranged from producer and presenter to a radio personality, earning him a reputation for delivering accurate and compelling stories. Currently, he serves as a Senior Reporter at TVC Communications, where he anchors the popular program “Kano Spotlight,” providing in-depth coverage and analysis of events in Kano State.

His educational background is extensive and diverse. Isah holds a Bachelor of Arts in English Language and Literature from Bayero University, Kano, and a Master’s degree in Public Relations and Communication Studies from the same institution. Additionally, he studied Solutions and Data Journalism at Pan Atlantic University. He also earned a Professional Certificate in Digital Marketing from the London School of Business Administration. Recently, he completed a Master Diploma in Digital Marketing awarded by the Digital Marketing Institute Lagos, Nigeria, powered by Digital Marketing Skills LLC, United States of America. In the area of social media, Isah received a certificate from Avalocx University of Social Media in New York, United States, after completing a High Level Social Media Management Course. This academic prowess, combined with his practical experience, positions him as a versatile professional in the realm of public relations and digital marketing.

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Isah’s transition into public relations and digital marketing is marked by significant roles such as Knowledge Management and Communication Officer for the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones Project, and Public and Media Relations Consultant for the Flour Milling Association of Nigeria. Currently, he is performing a lead role in managing the PR and communications as a consultant for the WOFAN-ICON2 Project in partnership with Mastercard Foundation. In these positions, he has demonstrated his ability to craft compelling narratives and strategic communications that resonate with diverse audiences.

As a Digital Marketing Strategist and PR Consultant, Isah is exploring innovative ways to blend traditional journalism with modern digital techniques. His expertise in SEO, social media management, website development, and video editing allows him to create comprehensive digital marketing campaigns that drive engagement and achieve tangible results.

Ibrahim Ayyuba Isah is also an Associate Member of the Nigeria Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) and the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON), as well as a member of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Kano Correspondents’ Chapel and the Sports Writers Association, Kano Chapter. His dedication to his craft and his continuous pursuit of excellence reflect his commitment to making a difference in his new field. As he explores the intersections of PR, creative, and digital marketing, he aims to shape the future of communication strategies in Nigeria and beyond.

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Rano Celebrates New Emir with Grand Procession and Festivities

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The historic town of Rano was abuzz with jubilation today as residents welcomed their newly appointed emir, Alhaji Muhammadu Isah Umaru (Autan Bawo), recently appointed by Kano state Governor Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf.

The new emir entered the palace in Rano town accompanied by hundreds of people who came out to celebrate the occasion.

The procession displayed cultural heritage with traditional drummers, dancers, and horse riders showcasing the history of the Rano emirate. The streets near the emir’s palace were adorned with colorful decorations as the people of Rano expressed their joy and support for their new leader.

One resident, Malam Sani Rano, shared his excitement, saying, “We are very happy with the appointment of Alhaji Muhammadu Isah Umaru as our new emir. He is a man of integrity and wisdom, and we believe he will lead us towards greater prosperity and unity.”

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Hajiya Fatima Sani, another resident, echoed similar sentiments. “Today is a special day for us in Rano. The new emir has always been close to the people, understanding our needs and aspirations. We have high hopes for his reign.”

The new Emir on the throne,Muhammad Isah Umaru

The new Emir on the throne,Muhammad Isah Umaru

The appointment of Alhaji Muhammadu Isah Umaru has been met with widespread approval, with many residents expressing optimism about the future of the emirate under his leadership.

The procession at Rano Emirate

The procession at Rano Emirate

Bashir Ibrahim, a local trader, remarked, “Muhammadu Isah Umaru has a deep connection with our traditions and values. His leadership will surely bring about positive changes and strengthen our cultural heritage.”

As the celebrations continued into the evening, the atmosphere in Rano remained festive and hopeful. The people of Rano are looking forward to a prosperous era under the guidance of their new emir, Alhaji Muhammadu Isah Umaru.

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A tale from the north: the untold story of Hassan

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Hassan Auwalu Muhammad

In the central part of Northern Nigeria, there lives a man called Hassan Auwalu Muhammad who was born in the ancient city of Kano from the popular Hausa tribal clan.

At the age of 10, Hassan loss his beloved Dad, Late Sharu Muhammad (Memakoko) whose personality has been described by many, as an exemplary figure of humility, moral eminence, humbleness, and greatness.  To Hassan, his father is the most amazing person he has ever known.

Hassan grew up on a  lifestyle which premised on the quest for knowledge. To seek for knowledge, he was sent to Unguru village in Yobe state to acquire islamic knowledge and learn the tenets and fundamentals of his religion- Islam.

Surprisingly, Hassan’s inquisitiveness and curiosity began to developed which as a result, he eventually became a fan of media. Meanwhile, he developed interest in the Journalism profession. Thanks to BBC Hausa, VOA Hausa and DW Hausa programes which  remained the sources of inspiration and motivation for him to be passionate about journalism and even understood  the basic styles and standards of these prominent international media organizations.

From that moment, Hassan who was at his teenage age have already realized how the media could be used in a way to promote unity, peace and progress of his country. Hence, the media became his most preferred choice and the struggle to join the train just began.

After the completion of his secondary school, Hassan made several attempts to secure admission into a degree program at Bayero University, Kano but all attempts prove abortive because his scores were below the required average marks of the post-UTME . For that reason, Hassan had to apply for admission into Diploma programe in Mass Communication. Fortunately for him, he was admitted and years after, he obtained a professional and Advanced Diploma in Mass Communication from the pretigious Bayero University, Kano..

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Having obtained diploma certificates, Hassan decided to further his education and sat for UTME Exams  which took him 7years before he eventually scored the required marks that gave him the chance to be admitted into a Degree programe in 2015, at Bayero University Kano. Hassan graduated in 2021 with second class in Mass Communication.

In 2008, Hassan started his early career in Journalism Profession as a Freelancer with Freedom Radio Kano 99.5 FM. In 2010, he was an artiste reporter  for years until 2013 when he was offered a full time appointment as a staff member of Freedom Radio.

Hassan dive into the Profession as a preseter of Kano Music Expres – a programe which the idea was conceived and developed by him in order to promote Kano based Hausa rappers.

Hassan was there for a while and has achieved so much with that programe before he was  deployed to the station’s on- air studio to serve as a DCA- Duty Continuity Announcer. Being one of the best On-Air Personal , Hassan’s talents could not be left unused, as such he canvases news from different sources and translate it from English to Hausa for “Inda Ranka” programe.

What other passion for Hasssan ?

Initially, Hassan had always wanted to be a pilot, but his dream was shattered by the huge financial responsibility and expectations attached to joining the aviation sector.

But having joined the Media industry, Hassan understood the virtues attached to journalism profession and since then he has been a catalyst for development which through his media content he produces reports that help in changing the lives and mindsets of the teeming youths in a positive way.

However, Hassan believes that working in media has its challenges and requires dedication and sacrifices as well as being honest and true to people. Journalism is all about honesty and truthfulness to present facts that will bring about positive and progressive social transformation in the society.

Besides being a DCA, Hassan is currently presenting three different programes: “Allah Daya…”, “Mai Nema…” and also a co-presenter of “Barka da Hantsi” all from the famous Radio Station, Freedom Radio Group.

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