Features

Sheikh Ahmad Muhammad Ibrahim Bamba: A tribute

Published

3 years ago

January 11, 2022

By Professor Salisu Shehu

My first sight of Dr. Ahmad Bamba was 37 years ago in 1984 in the Ummah Mosque at the Old
Campus, Bayero University Kano where I just got registered as a pre-degree student.

Although the Central Mosque in Bayero University Kano would always be the first sight of any visitor or newly arriving student to the university, having been strategically located near the Main Gate, the Ummah Mosque may be the first place of worship for the new resident (on campus) student because of its location between the two major and oldest faculties of the university – the Faculty of Arts and Islamic Studies (FAIS) and the Faculty of Education. Because of its lively nature and vibrancy – series of nasihas, ta’alims, Qur’anic study circles and Tajweed, Arabic classes and even sometimes, very hot intra-faith dialogues and debates – Ummah Mosque, therefore, would always easily capture every newly arriving young Muslim student.

It was quite rare to see non-students’ faces at the Ummah Mosque except during Zuhr and Asr prayers when some visitors and lecturers might be around to join the congregation. There was however, a non- student face that was very familiar in the mosque most especially, during Zuhr prayer and seldom during Maghrib; that was Dr. Ahmad Muhammad Ibrahim Bamba’s. He would certainly be the first lecturer students that used to regularly attend congregational prayer in Ummah Mosque would be familiar with because of his regular presence.

My first countenance of Dr. Ahmad in mosque reminded me of my first IRK teacher at Teachers College – Sheikh Yahya Abdul’Azeez – a fully bearded Pakistani Sheikh. On my first sight of Sheikh Dr. Ahmad in Ummah Mosque the memories of Sheikh Abdul’Azeez suddenly came back to my mind. More strikingly however, the sights of the two gentlemen present to the heart a mien of piety that sometimes made you think of the countenances of the Sahaba, or so we used to think as young people that still had some elements of naivety in our thoughts.

Our admiration of Sheikh Dr. Ahmad was ceaseless whenever he came and prayed with us in Ummah Mosque and left. But our interaction with him was no more than the salaam and typically, he would wave at you and make his way out or extend his hand for a shake when you happen to be close enough to him. The first time I had a conversation with him or heard him speak to me was when I was appointed as an imam in the mosque.

With the vestiges of adolescent exuberance and obsession for fashionable and smart appearance, my wardrobe had more of the fashionable shirts and trousers of the time (TOBI shirts/jeans and HARA trousers) than kaftans. Invariably, therefore, the imam in me would most of the time lead prayers in the said kinds of fashionable shirts and trousers in Ummah Mosque. I led the Maghrib prayer one day. After the prayer, Sheikh Dr. Ahmad Bamba called me, held my hand and led the way outside the mosque. In his typical gentle manner and way he said, “Liman, yaya kokari”. I replied, “Alhamdulillah”, with a mixture of exciting and nervous mien. He then said to me, “Toh liman ga karatu mai kyau, amma kuma kullum ana mana Sallah kai babu hula?” With a sigh of relief, I said , “Na Gode Mallam, insha Allah, za a gyara.”. It was both an awesome and joyful moment
for me. But what was most instructive was the fact that that simple and gentle counsel not only made me appreciate that I was no longer just an ordinary student on campus but I was treading the path of spiritual leaders, it also changed my life in terms of personal disposition and appearance on campus and beyond.

A second experience with Sheikh Dr. Ahmad Bamba made me a witness to his magnanimity. It was in the case of attending his Hadith class for students offering Islamic Studies as Special Honours. I was not one, so I could not register for that course. I offered Islamic Studies as a subsidiary course but I was interested in attending his special or rather advanced Hadith class. All my friends and classmates were encouraging me to just enter the class and that they were sure Malam would not send me out. On the second or third lecture day, I joined some of these mates. I sat in the class with some bit of nervousness. Sheikh entered the class, conducted his lesson and alhamdulillah, he did not send me out. He definitely saw me, and he definitely knew that I was not duly registered for that course because it was a small class of less than 15 students. By virtue of my imamship in Ummah Mosque, I was already a familiar face to him. With a deep sense of appreciation, I must say that, that opportunity was my first experience with not only some of the basic and essential rudiments of Ilm al-Hadith but was also the greatest inspiration for deeper and more advanced study of the field.
After graduation in 1988, I got intellectually and personally reconnected with him when I returned to Bayero University Kano in 1991 to pursue my Master’s degree. That was the year Sheikh Dr. Ahmad Bamba started his very awesome, weekly/weekend Hadith Ta’alim sessions, beginning with Sahih al-Bukhari in the BUK Central Mosque, a teaching-cum- admonishment exercise that he continued to conduct uninterruptedly with a great sense of passion, vigour, consistency and rare faith and commitment for 30 years.

Breaking:Renown Hadith Translator Dr Ahmad Is Dead

In the Hadith Ta’alim sessions, we did not only learn the texts of the Hadiths and elements of Mastalahul Hadith but we also learnt to be much more committed to Sunnah in terms of faith and practice. Quite instructively also, we learnt lots and lots and lots of the Aqwal (wise or sayings) of the salafs, many aspects of Usul al-Fiqh (Islamic Jurisprudence), Qaw’id al- Fiqh (Jurisprudential principles and maxims) and many Islamic religious and Jahiliyyah poetries (Qasa’id and Shu’ara’ al-Jahiliyyah).
Sheikh Dr. Ahmad Bamba did not only contribute to the knowledge of Hadith through the Ta’alim sessions, he also contributed to it through authorship. Within the first three years after the commencement of the Sahih al Bukhari lessons, one of his very scholarly Hadith works was released was his Takhreej and Tahqeeq work on Imam al- Bukhari’s “Juz al-Qira’ah Khalf al-Imam.

For Sheikh Dr. Ahmad Bamba, it was a life well spent. Thirty solid years of uninterrupted teaching of the Hadiths of the Prophet (s.a.w) was not just a monumental intellectual and scholarly contribution but evidence of true love of and for our Beloved Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w).

The death of our most honourable Sheikh Dr. Ahmad Muhammad Ibrahim Bamba is certainly a tragic loss to the world of knowledge and Da’awah.

Prof Shehu is the Vice Chancellor, Al- Istiqama University, Sumaila, Kano State

Features

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

Published

6 days ago

July 21, 2024

Nigerian Tracker

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.

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.

Features

Rano Celebrates New Emir with Grand Procession and Festivities

Published

1 week ago

July 18, 2024

Nigerian Tracker

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.”

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 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

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.

Features

A tale from the north: the untold story of Hassan

Published

3 weeks ago

July 8, 2024

Nigerian Tracker

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..

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.