Opinion

How not to be a Professor

Published

3 years ago

February 20, 2022

Sheikh Isa Ali Pantami

Abdulgaffar Amoka

The press release from ASUU after the Unilag NEC meeting that directed all ASUU branches not to recognize Dr. Pantami as a Professor opened up another discussion on his appointment by FUTO as a Professor of Cyber Security in 2021. Some people that are lazy to even read the press release are questioning the right ASUU has got to withdraw the appointment.

Dear lazy and misinformed fellows, ASUU did not withdraw any appointment and this was the statement. “NEC hereby rejects in its entity the purported appointment of Dr. Isah Ali Ibrahim Pantami as a professor of cybersecurity. From the evidence available to us, Dr. Pantami was not qualified, and the said appointment violated the established procedure for the appointment of professors in the university”.

You and the VC of FUTO can address him as a Professor, but the ASUU NEC directed all members and branches of our union across the nation not to recognize, accord, or treat Dr. Isah Ali Ibrahim Pantami as a professor of cybersecurity under any guise. That statement should not be too difficult to comprehend.

As the argument on the ASUU position was ongoing, a hilarious trending piece titled “Where was ASUU?” was on social media. Of course, ASUU was there and still there. Dr. Jerry Gana was a Reader in ABU before he got into politics in1983 on leave of absence from the University. From the university rules and regulations, staff on leave of absence is entitled to his next promotion. That qualified Dr. Jerry Gana to become Prof. Jerry Gana in 1985 while holding a political appointment. The same happened to Ngozi Osarenren, Abdul-Rasheed Kunle Lawal, Misbau Babatunde, etc, mentioned on the list that held political appointments. They were promoted by the same university they left on leave of absence for a political appointment. Pantami’s case was not the same and not even close.

Pantami; Now that you are a Professor!

The name that got me to laugh loud was that of Wole Soyinka. How can you mention the name of a Nobel laureate in this kind of situation? A Nobel laureate fa? Unbelievable? They should have put every other name but not Wole Soyinka. Haba! Ignorance is not an excuse to be stupid. It made the compiler look stupid. Meanwhile, as of the time Wole Soyinka was appointed as a Professor, PhD was not a criterion to becoming a Professor, his scholarly contribution was just enough. Until recently, you don’t even need a PhD to become a Senior Lecturer. But now you can’t be a Senior Lecturer without a PhD. So, the rules keep changing.

Pantami is a great Islamic scholar, was great as the DG of NITDA, and doing well as a minister. If I were him, I would have focused more on my responsibilities to complement my existing achievements and carve a niche for myself. But he wants the title of a Professor. This looks like a case of a man desperate to kill two birds with one stone. I still ask myself what is the big deal on that title that some people want at all costs.

Meanwhile, his PhD and the nearly 3 years post qualification experience in Saudi Arabia was in Information science. Not sure if cyber security is embedded in his information science. So, if it is, what are his scholarly contributions to cyber security? One of the FUTO’s criteria was web presence but we could not find that record of his presence on the web. The hailers should be telling us where to find the record and not emotional blackmail.

Some people brought religious colouration to create sympathy. His hailers were on it, passing fatwa, and MURIC Director nailed it. Note that the criticism of the appointment has no religious dimension else the first critics of the appointment would not have been Muslims. Farooq Kperogi and some Professors from the North were among the first people to write about it. MURIC felt that some branches of ASUU in the North may not heed to ASUU NEC directive. MURIC Director doesn’t seem to know ASUU well. Dear sir, every single branch is in agreement with the directive from NEC and will heed to it.

Another person that claimed to be a Professor from IBBU brought in the triple helix model. The triple helix model of innovation refers to a set of interactions between academia, industry, and government, to foster economic and social development. It is a brilliant idea and we need it in our society for national development. I had a triple helix experience. The project that I did a postdoc on at NTNU Trondheim was funded by the industry and the Norwegian government. During the project work, we had meetings that consists of us (the project team) in the academia, the industrial partners, and the government representative. We are also currently working on a project that involved TETFund, ABU, and TCN/Kaduna Electric. That is a triple helix. How Pantami’s controversial professorial appointment fits into the triple helix model is what I am trying to understand. Was his appointment a purposeful hiring to execute a triple helix project? Which cyber security project was he employed to handle at FUTO? Who is he representing? It can’t be the industry because he is not in the industry and has never worked in one.

He had all the opportunities to develop a career in academics to the highest rank but left as Assistant Professor to pick up a political appointment. If he was so passionate to teach and FUTO is so in need of his expertise and experiences, the VC should have appointed him as a visiting professor. That is a lesser evil and there won’t be much noise. But a fresh tenured professor for a serving minister whose last academic position was an Assistant Professor? Haba VC! Let’s even forget about the fact that his last position in academia was Assistant Professor. Visit the FUTO’s website for the advert for the vacancy. His about 3 years post qualification experience in academia has knocked him out since 12 years post qualification experience was a criterion on the FUTO vacancy advert and not 3 years.

He has been addressed as Professor even before he started lecturing there. Most people are beginning to think that the appointment may possibly not be about his experience or service to the university but the title for him and the opening of opportunities to explore for the university or the VC. He possibly wants the title “Prof” on his name like most of us also want. The race for the acquisition of titles in Nigeria has shifted base to academia.

Let’s be honest with ourselves, what experience has he got in cyber security as the DG of NITDA and now a minister that qualified him to be a Professor? Such appointments are more of an administrative job to coordinate the activities (technical and non-technical) and the people doing the job. A DG or a Minister won’t be in the lab to develop codes for cyber security. He does not have time for that even if he wants to. He is not involved in any technical department doing the real lab work or fieldwork.

For example, a Chemist is appointed as the Director of the Equipment maintenance and development centre of a university for a period of 4 years. He will coordinate the activities of the Engineers at the centre to get the job done toward achieving their mandate. Does that suddenly qualify him to be a professor of equipment maintenance?

I have no problem with people that insist that he is qualified for the fresh academic position even as a serving minister. But what I want to read is not emotions and blackmails but information on what qualified him for an elevation from the last position of an Assistant professor in information science to a Professor in a field he never did his PhD or have hands-on experience while In academia. What cyber security problem has he solved? What are his breakthroughs in cyber security? What cyber security system has he developed? Has he got any patent? Where are his scholarly contributions to cyber security? How many MSc or PhD theses has he supervised in cyber security? In which university? Who are the students? Why does FUTO want him?

We have discussed the reckless promotion to the rank of Professor in Nigerian universities that is making some people become uncomfortable having “Prof” with their name. A respected senior colleague once said that we have two classes of professors in the university. I look at the profiles of the likes of Prof. Ibrahim Gambari, Prof. Deborah Ajakaiye, Prof. S.B. Ojo, etc, and I still wonder if as an academic I will ever be truly qualified to be called a Professor.

We’ve got several issues to deal with in the university. Adding a ridiculous appointment of politicians to the rank of Professor to our numerous problems in the Universities is like adding salt to injury. You definitely don’t want to open that door in public universities. The Nigerian university system is already messed up and some of us still wonder how we can regain the lost glory. We need to ensure that it is not further messed up by politicians or some self-serving university management.

To Dr. Pantami, you are still relatively young and will be done as a minister in about a year from now. If the appointment is not about the “title” to add to your name but “service” to FUTO and Nigeria, If I were you, I will honorably let go of the controversial appointment and pick up the academic job after my tenure as a minister.

To the hailing hailers that have got no idea how the university works and the difference between Assistant, Associate Professor, and Professor but arguing left-center-right, ignorance is not an excuse to be stupid.

©Amoka

Opinion

2027:Why Fa’izu Alfindiki Is Municipal’s Best Choice For Reps

Published

2 days ago

April 10, 2025

Nigerian Tracker

From Danlami Gandun Albasa

There is no doubt that the former Chairman of Kano Municipal Hon Fa’izu Alfindiki (Jundullahi) can make a better candidate for the position of House of Representatives, in the forthcoming 2027. His name alone rings bell and sends fear to the ears and hearts of his political opponents. Kwankwasiyya especially and their hidden supporters.

It is very clear for all to come to term with me when I argue that Alfindiki is not only composed, but he has clear understanding of voters behavior in his constituency, Municipal local government and other Metropolitan areas.

I have my concrete reasons why Alfindiki stands better chance to be the candidate for House of Representatives seat from Kano Municipal, in 2027.

Let’s have a simple look at those reasons. See below for your perusal :

1. Apart from being the immediate past local government Chairman, whose understanding of grassroot politicians (yan dangwale) their needs and behaviors, become part and parcel of his political experience, his relationship with many categories of people gives him an edge over many others, who recently indicate their interest,

2. Alfindiki’s visibility in the social media, as both active user and active contributor in political discussions in the social media means a lot for his breakthrough,

3. Coming from Bakin Kasuwa side of the Municipal local government, will give headache for Kwankwasiyya or NNPP people. Who are densely populated there. So when Bakin Kasuwa politicians see their son contesting for the position, they will rally behind him for popular support and endorsement at all cost,

4. Fa’izu has no hidden relationship with Baba Ganduje’s enemies and political opponents. You cannot pinpoint any figure within Kwankwasiyya circle and get any link with him or her and Fa’izu Alfindiki. He is always straightforward,

5. Alfindiki has no history of abusing our pillars within APC or their families. He still believes, our pillars, ranging from Baba Ganduje, Abdullahi Abbas and the like, are still reliable and dependable. Nowhere in his political history, where he resorts to abusing the families of our leaders, at whatever rate and range,

6. Alfindiki is always up and doing in coordinating all parts of our great party APC to be strong and reliable political platform, and

7. Without any fear of contradiction, Alfindiki is responsible without pretending. He unifies supporters and does not believe in creating factions within the larger body of our great APC

TO BE CONTINUED

Opinion

Letter To IGP On Reaffirming Respect For Traditional Institutions And The Role Of The Nigeria Police Force In Upholding Justice

Published

2 days ago

April 10, 2025

Nigerian Tracker

Sir,

We acknowledge the Nigeria Police Force’s recent decision to withdraw its invitation to the Emir of Kano, Mallam Muhammadu Sanusi II PhD, in connection to an incident during the Sallah celebration in Kano on March 30, 2025. While this move is appreciated, it is important to highlight that the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) is a noble institution revered for its commitment to maintaining law and order.

As such, we believe that the leadership of the NPF, particularly the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), should not be utilized as a tool for actions that could be construed as undermining this esteemed institution. The primary responsibility of the NPF is to maintain law and order in society, not to engage in actions that sow division or disrespect for the country’s revered institutions.

We wish to respectfully draw the attention of the IGP to certain issues that require immediate attention. First and foremost, addressing an Emir without the appropriate protocol is a sign of disdain, not only to the individual Emir but to the entire traditional institution. An Emir, whether alive,deposed, or deceased, should never be referred to without the prefix “Emir” or “His highnerss. Referring to the Emir as “Alhaji,” “Mallam,” or “Dr.” without the appropriate title raises concerns and may lead to suspicions regarding the position of the NPF toward the Emir, His Highness, Mallam Muhammadu Sanusi II PhD.

Additionally, we believe that the question of whether the NPF’s press release, demanding that the Emir provide a statement, was necessary is a matter of concern. The state police command had already made arrests and issued an invitation to Sallaman Kano, the most senior aide in charge of palace affairs

This action should suffice for the continuation of the investigation without the need to escalate matters by seeking the Emir’s direct involvement. Further engagement with the Emir, if necessary, can be carried out through appropriate channels, in line with the traditional and legal protocols.

While we appreciate the IGP’s prompt action in withdrawing the invitation, we would like to emphasize the importance of maintaining respect for the traditional institution and ensuring that police actions do not inadvertently politicize or disrespect any parties involved. We trust that the IGP will take this into account as the investigation progresses and that professionalism, neutrality, and justice will guide the NPF in handling this delicate matter.

In conclusion, we hope that the NPF continues to uphold its role in a manner that respects the traditions and laws of our nation. It is essential that such matters be handled with the utmost care, respecting both the rule of law and the sanctity of the traditional institutions.

Tijjani Sarki
Vice President
Human Rights Watch and youth empowerment foundation, Kano, Nigeria
7th April 2025

Opinion

Encomia As Hajara Ali Exits NECO

Published

3 days ago

April 9, 2025

Nigerian Tracker

By AbdurRaheem Sa’ad Dembo, anipr

Let me begin this piece with the words of the Famous American Obie Award Winning Actor and Writer, Patrick Foley, “…Retirement is a chance to redesign your life into Something new and different”.It is never the end of the road but an opportunity to start a new life.

On 25th March, 2025 Hajiya Hajara Ali retired from the service of National Examinations Council (NECO) meritoriously as a Director.

She was a mother to all within the Council. A very pragmatic, hardworking, and thorough civil servant.

But I can’t say it all, so I had to reach out to those who have worked closely with her and others within the Council.

Mrs Mary Esezobor opines “Hajiya is a mother, she is free with everybody and has a listening ear.She is friendly, one can enter her office anytime.Many people believe that once a woman is in position of authority, power intoxicates them but that was not the case of Hajiya”.

Similarly,Mr Msughter Igbalaga is a member of staff, who worked with her, explained that “she is naturally simple because she is not the material type. Anything flamboyant Hajiya dislikes it even as a Director. She would come and sit down in the midst of some members of staff to discuss official issues. She values ideas from her staff and abhors laziness.”

Mrs Ebele A. Egbosimba also described Hajara Ali as a friendly and accommodating personality. She asserts ” If you work with her,she would guide you appropriately. She doesn’t engage in discrimination. Her yes is yes, while her No is No.She fights for justice and loves doing the right thing”.

Her Secretary, Mrs Hafsat Shehu Yusuf said, “She is simple and nice. She’s friendly and hardworking.She is a good mother”.

Furthermore, Mrs Sunday A. Nike, who also worked with her captures her personality thus:” She is a mother to me. She is straightforward and generous.There is no challenge you take to her that she would not help you to address it. she is very accommodating and does not discriminate against religion or tribe”.

Husseini Amodu has worked with Hajiya for years, here is his submission about her: “To every objective assessor, Hajiya Hajara epitomizes diligence, discipline, foresight and empathy. She is an advocate of peace, industrial harmony, dedication to duty and servant leadership. Her humility is rare and she is distinctively accommodating. She carries out her tasks with absolute passion and precision, upholding the tenets of exemplary leadership. There is no doubt that her sterling qualities will propel her for higher responsibilities in our beloved country in no distant time, God willing”.

Essentially, Lukman Ahmed is a member of staff and the former Special Assistant On Poverty Alleviation to Kwara state Governor, Mallam Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, has this to say about her:

“Hajia Hajara Ali (Our Mother) is a paragon of hard work, selfless service and dedication.

“We celebrate a Mother who has set a high standard of leadership, demonstrating that with vision, courage and determination, even the most daunting challenges are being surmounted.”

“We celebrate an exceptional Woman, Mother, Teacher, Mentor, a beacon of hope, whose impressive achievement in office has left an indelible mark in the history of the Registration Department.”

“Her versatility will be missed “.

Most importantly, Hajiya Hajara Ali is not only religious but pious. Her attitude to work is superb. On the day she retired I went to her office and I met a lot of staff members who came to congratulate her.She made a statement on that day while advising them and it kept knocking on my mind. She said she took her job diligently because she knew she would account before the Almighty about her approach to work and the people around her. She admonished staff members to always do the right thing for the sake of the Council and accountability.

*Her Educational background*

She hailed from Dala Local Government Area of Kano State

Hajara Ali completed her primary school at the Cathedral Girls Primary School, Freetown, Sierra leone in 1977.She attended Government Girls College, Dala,Kano and had a GCE O’ Level WAEC in 1982.

She later proceeded to Bayero University, Kano and graduated with a Bachelor of Science (BSC) Chemistry in 1989.She had a Post Graduate Diploma in Management from the same institution in 1996.

In 2005 she obtained Diploma in Computer Science Education at Cornerstone Computer Institute, Ilorin

In her quest to acquire more knowledge and qualification she went to Bayero University, Kano (BUK) again to study Education at Post graduate level, and she obtained a Post Graduate Diploma in Education in 2009.

In 2012 she bagged Msc Analytical Chemistry in Bayero University, Kano

Hajiya Hajara Ali worked with the Kano State Ministry of Water Resources and served as Senior Research Officer between 1990 and 1999.She later joined the service of the National Examinations Council in 2000 when NECO was established.

Until her retirement,she was the Director of Registration at the NECO Headquarters in Minna, where she made appreciable impact through innovation of ideas and commitment to work .

On 7th April, 2025 during the send forth ceremony organized for her by the staff of the Council at the NECO Conference hall,she received a lot of gifts and accolades from members of staff,and that was a testament to her dignity,hardwork, simplicity and integrity.

Hajiya Hajara Ali is retired but not tired, a woman of such impeccable character should be engaged in higher responsibility.

Against all odds she will navigate the earth and the sky will be her limit just as the former US Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton has said “Where there are no ceilings, the sky is the limit”.

I pray that Allah guides and protects her as she approaches the new phase of life