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THE ENDURING PRESTIGE OF PROFESSOR SANI LAWAN MALUMFASHI: A LEGACY OF WISDOM, TRUST, INTEGRITY, AND LEADERSHIP IN THE HEART OF NORTHERN NIGERIA.

Published

7 months ago

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By. Ahmad Muhammad Sani Gwarzo , Anipr.

The story of Professor Sani Lawan Malumfashi enters a profound new chapter—one shaped by the calm resilience of a seasoned academic, the loyalty of those who believe in his character and the values that have guided his life for decades. As public conversations continue to rise and fade, one truth becomes clearer: his legacy reaches far beyond the passing storms of public scrutiny.

To many, the professor’s journey stands as a testament to the enduring power of intellect and discipline. He is part of a rare generation of northern intellectuals whose knowledge is not merely academic, but deeply rooted in wisdom, community experience and moral consciousness. His colleagues often describe him as a man who reads life as carefully as he reads books.

In every institution he served, his presence brought a sense of maturity. He carried himself with the calm assurance of someone who understood both his responsibilities and the weight of his influence. Students recall the confident but humble professor who entered the lecture hall with precision, delivering each idea with clarity, balance and thoughtful depth.

Among the qualities most celebrated about him is his trustworthiness. People who interacted with him closely speak of a man who honored his words as commitments. His promises were modest, but his actions were dependable. He represented a model of leadership anchored not in authority, but in credibility.

In academic discussions, the professor was known for his sharp analytical mind. He possessed the rare ability to separate emotion from reason, ensuring that every conclusion was grounded in evidence. This intellectual discipline shaped his reputation as someone who approached every task—even simple ones—with seriousness and purpose.

His wisdom extended beyond books and politics. It showed in the way he related to people. His peers often say that the professor listened before he spoke, observed before he judged and advised only when necessary. This reflective personality became a defining trait of his leadership style.

Integrity has always been considered his most enduring quality. The professor lived in accordance with his values—simplicity, fairness, and self-restraint. Neighbors and acquaintances describe him as a man who avoided conflict, avoided extravagance, and avoided anything that compromised his peace of mind.

These values shaped his relationships with some of Kano’s most influential leaders. His professional respect for His Excellency, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, FNISE, is a significant part of his story. Observers note that the professor maintained a relationship built on courteous dialogue, shared developmental aspirations, and mutual recognition of service to the public.

The governor is known for appreciating competence, honesty, and loyalty—qualities many believe the professor embodied. Their relationship, supporters say, reflected the intersection of academic intelligence and leadership responsibility. It was grounded in professionalism rather than political calculation.

Another important influence in the professor’s journey has been the iconic founder of the Kwankwasiyya Movement and national leader of the NNPP, Dr. Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso. Known across Nigeria for his discipline, courage, and leadership philosophy, Dr. Kwankwaso represents the kind of public figure the professor respects deeply.

Those who have observed the professor’s relationship with Dr. Kwankwaso describe it as one defined by admiration. The professor appreciated Kwankwaso’s commitment to education, youth empowerment, and structural governance. Supporters point out that both men share a disciplined lifestyle and a sober approach to leadership.

Within the circles of the Kwankwasiyya philosophy, values such as humility, justice, and service are non-negotiable. These values align closely with the personality of Professor Malumfashi, which explains why many within the movement view him with respect. His academic discipline mirrors the movement’s intellectual backbone.

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The professor’s calm demeanor, even in challenging times, further strengthens the belief that he embodies the qualities that great institutions value. Supporters argue that his composure reflects inner strength rather than public pressure. They see a man who trusts the process of justice, respects the rule of law, and maintains dignity through every phase of his journey.

As public discussions continue, one striking pattern appears: the professor is often described as a man whose understanding of governance is shaped by fairness. His former students recall learning from him that leadership must never be a tool of oppression but a responsibility rooted in justice.

His long years in academia nurtured in him a respect for evidence, procedure, and balanced judgment. These principles shaped not only his teaching but his approach to public leadership. Supporters argue that these values should be remembered and appreciated as part of his overall legacy.

In the communities that know him well, the professor remains a respected figure. Elders see him as a symbol of intellectual pride. Young people admire him as a mentor whose achievements show that education can elevate a person to high responsibility. Civic organizations speak of him as a man who contributed to
societal growth without seeking personal reward.

As society reflects on his contributions, one aspect becomes undeniable: Professor Malumfashi symbolizes a generation of Nigerians who invested their lives in knowledge-building rather than wealth accumulation. This alone differentiates him from many of his contemporaries.

The professor’s supporters often highlight that he lived modestly even when he held influential positions. His house, lifestyle, and personal conduct remain consistent with the principles of simplicity that he taught in classrooms for decades. This coherence deepens the public perception that the professor’s character is not shaped by circumstances but by conviction.

His relationship with people across different social classes further strengthens his enduring reputation. Whether speaking with a student, a civil servant, a political leader, or a market trader, the professor maintained an equal level of respect and patience. His humanity made him accessible, approachable, and widely appreciated.

Among his close associates, the professor is often celebrated for his deep emotional intelligence. He understands the power of empathy in leadership. His guidance is often calm, steady, and grounded in experience rather than reaction. These traits made him a stabilizing influence in many professional settings.

When debates arise about his public life, supporters insist that the professor’s legacy cannot be reduced to legal headlines. They argue that the measure of a man lies in decades of consistent behavior, not in the turbulence of a particular moment. His supporters emphasize that such turbulence does not erase his contributions.

To many, the professor remains a national asset—a scholar who helped shape the intellectual foundations of northern Nigeria. His community engagement, academic service, and calm leadership style are seen as qualities worthy of recognition wherever integrity is valued.

Over time, stories about the professor’s kindness continue to surface. Students narrate how he supported them during difficult periods. Friends describe how he offered guidance without expecting anything in return. Colleagues recall his commitment to teamwork and institutional progress.

These stories collectively paint a portrait of a man deeply rooted in goodness, humility and responsibility. Supporters believe that this foundation of character will continue to shape public memory long after current discussions fade.

As Part Three of his journey unfolds, the professor’s narrative becomes not only a personal story but a reflection of Nigeria’s search for leaders who carry wisdom, integrity and community loyalty. It is a search for individuals whose character remains strong even when tested by the complexities of public life.

For those who admire him, the professor stands among such individuals. They believe that his legacy will ultimately highlight the values he upheld—not the challenges he encountered. They believe that future generations will remember him as an educator, a thinker, a peaceful citizen and a man of disciplined principles.

His life continues to inspire conversations about trust, leadership and ethical responsibility. These conversations form an essential part of his evolving story—a story shaped not by the voices of critics but by the enduring truth of character.

In this broader view, the professor remains a symbol of what it means to serve with dignity, to teach with sincerity and to live with purpose. His journey continues to resonate because it reflects the timeless values of wisdom, humility and honor.

As the narrative moves forward, one idea becomes central: the professor’s contributions to education and community development form the foundation upon which his legacy will stand. His values continue to echo through the lives he touched.

The professor’s story, like all stories of great men, is one of resilience. It is the story of a scholar who walked through the world with dignity, who built bridges with people and who held firm to his beliefs even when tested.

In this final portrait, he stands as a figure whose wisdom shaped many, whose integrity guided him and whose trustworthiness earned him a permanent place in the hearts of countless Nigerians.

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Opinion

NELFUND: Lifeline or Test of Sustainability?

Published

21 hours ago

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June 29, 2026

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By Ibrahim Maryam Queen

For many Nigerian students, securing admission into a tertiary institution is only the beginning of another struggle—finding the money to stay in school. Rising tuition fees, accommodation costs and the increasing cost of living have made higher education difficult to afford for many families. In response to these challenges, the Federal Government introduced the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), a scheme intended to ensure that financial hardship does not prevent qualified students from completing their education.
The response has been remarkable. According to official NELFUND reports, more than one million students have applied for the loan, while hundreds of tertiary institutions have been onboarded onto the platform. These figures reflect not only the popularity of the programme but also the growing financial pressure faced by students across the country.
For one University of Abuja student, who requested anonymity, the loan meant the difference between remaining in school and dropping out.

“My father lost his job and my family could no longer afford my fees. I had already missed lectures, and I feared my education would end. The loan gave me another chance,” she said.

Her story illustrates the reality faced by many students. With household incomes under pressure and youth unemployment still a concern, financing higher education has become increasingly difficult. For many families, student loans provide immediate relief from a burden that might otherwise end a student’s academic journey.

However, the growing number of applications also raises important questions. If demand continues to increase, can the programme remain financially sustainable? While the scheme has attracted widespread interest, Nigeria has millions of students enrolled in tertiary institutions, suggesting that many eligible students may still not have access because of limited awareness, documentation challenges or difficulties with the application process.

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Another concern is repayment. Although the loans are designed to ease financial barriers to education, their long-term success depends on graduates’ ability to secure stable employment. Where unemployment or underemployment persists, repayment may become difficult, potentially affecting the sustainability of the scheme. This suggests that student loans cannot be viewed in isolation from broader economic realities.

Experiences from other countries provide useful lessons. A 2017 study by Nicholas Barr, Bruce Chapman, Lorraine Dearden and Susan Dynarski of the Centre for Global Higher Education, University of Oxford, found that poorly designed repayment systems can place heavy financial burdens on graduates. Examining the United States student loan system, the researchers observed that decades of accumulated debt and repayment challenges underscored the importance of creating fair and sustainable loan policies. While Nigeria’s scheme differs from the American model, the study highlights the need for careful implementation and continuous review.

Transparency and public confidence will also determine whether the programme succeeds. Regular publication of data on applications, disbursements, beneficiaries and repayment performance will help strengthen accountability. At the same time, expanding awareness campaigns, particularly in underserved communities, could ensure that eligible students are not excluded simply because they lack information about the scheme.

NELFUND has already provided hope to many students who might otherwise have abandoned their education. Yet its long-term impact will depend not only on the number of loans disbursed but also on sound management, transparent administration and an economy capable of creating opportunities for graduates. Without these, even the most ambitious education financing programme may struggle to achieve its objectives.

Student loans are more than financial assistance; they are an investment in human capital and national development. Whether NELFUND ultimately becomes a lasting lifeline for Nigerian students or a test of sustainable higher education financing will depend on the choices made today by policymakers, institutions and all stakeholders responsible for its implementation.

Sources
Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), Official Reports.
National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), Labour Force Survey.
Student Loans (Access to Higher Education) Act, 2024.
Barr, N., Chapman, B., Dearden, L., & Dynarski, S. (2017). Student Loan Design. Centre for Global Higher Education, University of Oxford.
Vanguard Newspaper.
Punch Newspaper.
Interview with an anonymous University of Abuja student (June 2026).

Ibrahim maryam queen
200level student of the department of Development and strategic communication university of Abuja.

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Opinion

AI Delusion Among Students: When Smart Tools Start Replacing Real Connections, The Truth About AI And Student Life

Published

21 hours ago

on

June 29, 2026

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BY: NDUBUISI MICHAEL SOMTOCHUKWU

In recent years, Artificial intelligence in Nigeria has rapidly shifted from the digital technologies concept talked about in the past to an everyday companion for students. AI has evolved past just helping students with their assignments and now is seen as capable of giving emotional support when needed. With AI tools such as chat GPT and Claude being able to interact with students, it has now become deeply integrated into their lives. While this shift is seen as an undeniable, beneficial way to help students, it also introduces an emerging concern often described as the term known as AI Delusion, the tendency to over rely on AI systems sometimes mistaking their human like understanding, empathy or authority. From a students perspective, this phenomenon is quietly changing relationships, mentorship and counseling in ways that are both empowering and potentially risky.

AI in academic fields has made communication faster and easier. Nigerian Students now use AI to draft messages, generate conversation ideas, and even simulate companionship through chatbots. For many, especially those who feel isolated or socially anxious, AI can feel like a safe space and non-judgmental, always available, and responsive. However, this convenience comes with a trade-off. Human relationships are built on emotional nuance, shared experiences, and mutual vulnerabilities, qualities AI cannot truly replicate. When students begin to substitute real interactions with AI conversations, they may unintentionally weaken their social skills and reduce meaningful human connections.

From a student’s point of view, the danger lies not in using AI, but in preferring it over people. This is where AI delusion begins: when a student starts believing that AI “understands” them better than their peers or family.

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Traditionally, mentorship involves guidance from experienced individuals such as teachers, seniors, or professionals, who provide not just knowledge, but wisdom shaped by real life experiences. In Today’s society, AI tools are used to acquire quick answers, career advice, and academic support, making students prefer these tools over human experience, The speed and accessibility of AI tools is what students appreciate and for most students, it reduces the need to schedule appointments and prevents the fear and judgement students might face when making real connections, they delude themselves saying “it really gets me”.

Mentorship is more than information. A human mentor challenges assumptions, shares personal failures, and adapts guidance based on deep understanding of a student’s personality and context. AI, on the other hand, generates responses based on patterns, not lived experience.

AI in Nigeria offers privacy, immediacy, and a sense of safety. Students may feel more comfortable opening up to a machine than to a person, especially when dealing with stigma or fear of judgment. However, AI lacks true empathy and cannot fully understand complex emotional or psychological conditions. It also cannot replace trained professionals in handling serious mental health issues. From a student’s perspective, AI can feel “good enough,” especially in moments of distress. But relying solely on AI for emotional support can create a false sense of being understood—another form of AI delusion. It may delay seeking real help when it is truly needed

A practical example is being a student in Abuja or Lagos chats with AI every night about stress, school, or relationships. He or she soon Stops opening up to friends and Feels more “heard” by AI than by real people, Believing AI genuinely understands emotions better than humans.

AI is not entirely to blame as misuse and over-dependence when it t comes from the students, From the student’s perspective, the goal should be balance, not avoidance. There are practical ways to minimize delusion of AI,these ways consist of things like allowing it to assist learning and not replace critical thinking, prioritizing real conversations with friends, teachers, and family, combining AI insights with guidance from experienced individuals, and knowing when to seek health for serious emotional or mental health concerns, in summary consult professionals.

Nigeria is experiencing rapid AI adoption, with over 90% of users relying on it for complex tasks and extensive use of chatbots. This high engagement, without adequate local ethical frameworks or mental health support, increases the risk of negative psychological impact. Experts in Nigeria have raised alarms about students experiencing hallucinations, paranoia, and a distorted sense of reality after prolonged, immersive interactions with AI a phenomenon sometimes termed “AI psychosis”.

Other critics however, argue that calling it “AI delusion” exaggerates the issue. Students are not necessarily “deluded”; many are fully aware that AI is not human. Instead, they are simply adapting to a more efficient tool. According to some critics, It may be more accurate to describe the trend as behavioral dependence, not psychological confusion. Historically, similar fears were raised about calculators, the Internet, and smartphones—yet society adapted.

NDUBUISI MICHAEL SOMTOCHUKWU wrote from Department of strategic communications University of Abuja and can be reached at ndubuisimichael292@gmail.com

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Opinion

Open letter to Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf on the Need To Include PCN, NAFDAC In Special Task Force On Drug Abuse And Illicit Trafficking

Published

2 days ago

on

June 28, 2026

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By Saidu Lawal Burji

I wish to commend Your Excellency for the timely establishment of the Special Task Force on Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking in Kano State. This initiative demonstrates your administration’s commitment to protecting the health, security, and future of the citizens of Kano State, particularly the youth who are disproportionately affected by substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking.

The composition of the Task Force reflects a commendable multi-sectoral approach involving security agencies, health institutions, traditional and religious stakeholders, and civil society representatives. However, considering the critical role of pharmaceutical regulation in combating drug abuse and illicit drug circulation, I respectfully wish to advocate for the inclusion of representatives from the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) and the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria (PCN) as members of the Task Force.

The inclusion of these two statutory regulatory agencies would significantly strengthen the operational capacity and effectiveness of the Task Force for the following reasons:

Expertise in Drug Regulation and Control

NAFDAC is the foremost federal agency charged with regulating and controlling the manufacture, importation, distribution, sale, and use of medicines and other regulated products in Nigeria. The agency possesses extensive intelligence, technical expertise, and enforcement experience relating to counterfeit, substandard, unregistered, and controlled substances that often fuel drug abuse.

Regulation of Pharmaceutical Premises and Medicine Distribution Channels

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The Pharmacy Council of Nigeria is the statutory body responsible for regulating pharmacy practice, pharmaceutical premises, patent and proprietary medicine vendors, and medicine distribution systems. PCN’s knowledge of legitimate medicine supply chains and pharmaceutical establishments would be invaluable in identifying sources of diversion, illegal medicine sales, and unauthorized drug outlets.

Support for Intelligence Gathering and Enforcement Operations

Both agencies maintain valuable databases and field intelligence relating to pharmaceutical products, distribution networks, and regulatory violations. Their participation would enhance the Task Force’s ability to identify illicit drug distribution points and support evidence-based enforcement actions.

Strengthening Investigations and Prosecution

Effective prosecution of drug-related offences requires technical evidence concerning drug authenticity, regulatory status, licensing requirements, and pharmaceutical standards. NAFDAC and PCN can provide expert witnesses, forensic support, and regulatory documentation necessary for successful prosecution of offenders.

Public Education and Demand Reduction

Both agencies have extensive experience in public enlightenment campaigns on rational medicine use, dangers of substance abuse, and safe medicine practices. Their participation would strengthen the advocacy and preventive components of the Task Force’s mandate.

Promotion of a Comprehensive Public Health Approach

Drug abuse is not only a security challenge but also a significant public health issue. The inclusion of NAFDAC and PCN would ensure that regulatory, preventive, and public health perspectives are adequately integrated into the Task Force’s activities.

Your Excellency, the inclusion of these agencies will complement the efforts of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and other security institutions while ensuring a more comprehensive and sustainable response to the challenge of drug abuse and illicit trafficking in Kano State.

I therefore respectfully appeal to Your Excellency to consider expanding the membership of the Special Task Force to include one representative each from NAFDAC and the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria.

I am confident that such inclusion will further strengthen the capacity of the Task Force to achieve its noble objectives and contribute meaningfully to the realization of a healthier, safer, and drug-free Kano State.

Please accept the assurances of my highest esteem and regards.

Yours faithfully,

Saidu Lawal Burji Bpharm, MHE, Msc GHaP(in view)
Chief Pharmacist
Pharmacy Council of Nigeria
Kano State Office
burji1120@gmail.com

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