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Professor Umaru Pate: An Outstanding Communication Scholar

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Professor Umaru Pate

 

By AbdurRaheem Sa’ad Dembo

As an undergraduate student at the department of Mass communication in Bayero University, Kano between 2001 and 2006, I must say God really blessed me and others because of the kind of lecturers that tutored us. Moreover, in 2008/2009 academic session when I returned to the same department for my Masters programme I got to meet, again, an outstanding lecturer, Professor Umaru Pate; indeed, a man of proven erudition, excellence and scholarship. He was in charge of Communication Research and methodology.

Prof. Pate is not just a teacher but an embodiment of true knowledge of Mass communication. He is versatile and lively. There was never a dull moment in his class. He used the simplest method to teach.

A credible source revealed that Prof. Pate started his career from University of Maiduguri. He was on sabbatical to Bayero University, Kano before he finally became a permanent staff there. To students of Mass communication, he is an outstanding communication scholar who handles teaching with all alacrity, simplicity and dynamism.

Interestingly, it would be appropriate if I dwell into his early life before juxtaposing it with his current attainment in life.
Professor Umaru Pate was born on the 4th of January, 1964 at the Destrict Head’s Palace, Song Local Government of Adamawa state. He attended Nassarao Jeleng LEA Primary School where he obtained his leaving certificate in 1976. He proceeded to Government College Maiduguri where he emerged as the best out of those who sat for West African Examinations Council (WAEC) in the Arts class of 1981. Furthermore, he attended College of Preliminary Studies, Yola in 1982 for an interim Joint Matriculation Board (IJMB) that made him eligible for a direct admission into 200 level in 1984. The young Pate bagged a degree in Mass Communication from University of Maiduguri in 1987. He obtained Master’s in Philosophy in University of Ghana, Legon in 1990 and had his PhD in 1997 from the University of Maiduguri.

Prof. Pate is currently the Vice Chancellor of Federal University, Kashere, in Gombe state and the first Dean of Faculty of Communication, Bayero University Kano. Also, he was a former Dean, School of Postgraduate Studies in the same institution . He is also the President of Association of Communication Scholars and Professionals of Nigeria (ACSPN), and a member of UNESCO Network of Communication Professors.

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Prof. Pate has served as a consultant to numerous organizations both locally and internationally, such as UNICEF, NSAID, UNFPA, UNESCO Ford Foundation, and so on.

It is imperative to say that he does not neglect his culture and tradition, hence he is the Kaigama of Adamawa state, i.e. one of the Kingmakers of the state. Prof. Pate has over 66 national and international publications in different parts of the world.

Significantly, the Vice Chancellor of Federal University Kashere has received several awards, one of which was an “Award of Excellence for Service to Humanity” by the National Association of Women Journalist (NAWOJ).

At this juncture, It is important to emphasize that the heavy richness of Prof. Pate’s personality cannot be accounted for by a person, given the innumerable minds he has touched and that have crossed his path. According to an Associate Professor, Dr Haruna Ismail from the Department of Mass Communication, Bayero University, Kano, “There are no perfect humanbeings on earth but generally, Professor Umaru Pate is a good person and he relates very well with people. He can go all out to assist anyone, if he or she has a challenge. Sometimes he renders help to people even without them requesting for it. He is approachable, lively and cheerful. One must also give him the credit that he has National Connection with other Communication Scholars Nationwide”.

Hajiya Naimatu Abdullahi (Mrs) is the current Regional Manager, Northwest, Jaiz Bank,Kano, captured Prof. Umaru Pate’s personality thus: “Pate is a versatile communication scholar and a father to all his students. He is an international communication scholar”.

Patrick Agbo, a Chief Lecturer at the Federal Polytechnic, Bida and a PhD student in Nasarawa State University opines that “Professor Pate is a prolific academic, Lecturer, and mentor to all his students. He is a symbol of Mass Communication in Nigeria”.

In his own comment, Usman Minjibir of BBC Hausa described Professor Pate as an encyclopedia. Also, Mallam Abubakar Jibrin Adam, the Danmadamin Gwallarei in Bauchi State said: “Pate is an erudite communication scholar and a philanthropist because he does help indigent students.”

Anywhere in the world you can’t describe great men without the presence of the word ‘philanthropy’. If you are a stingy figure; you can’t go far.The account of Danmadamin Gwallarei about Professor Pate’s philanthropic activities gave credence to the fact that he is a generous teacher.

I decided to write this piece for Professor Pate because I have benefitted from his wealth of experience and knowledge.In other words, I have a thankful heart just as William Shakespeare’s in Henry IV said ” O Lord that lends me life, lend me a heart replete with thankfulness”.It is a popular saying that if you don’t thank your fellow man; you won’t thank the Almighty God.

As lecturers/teachers they should endeavour to be kind to their students. The reason is that the university or academic environment is not the end of the world. You cannot be everywhere but your magnanimity to them will spread around effortlessly and wide. Professor Pate is one of the examples of great men in the classroom. I pray to Allah to guide, protect and sustain him in goodness. I will also use this medium to pray for my lecturers who had shown us kindness during our time as students of the great citadel of learning, Bayero University, Kano.May Allah perfect their affairs.

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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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Features

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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