“I want to educate one million Nigerians, because educating a society is the best legacy one can be remembered for.”
— Professor Adamu Abubakar Gwarzo
My mentor and benefactor, Professor Adamu Abubakar Gwarzo, turns 48 today.
He has added another eventful year marked by service to humanity and devotion to God. His life is defined by purpose, dedication, selflessness, and an enduring commitment to the welfare of the people.
Professor Gwarzo is a natural-born leader with sterling qualities. As he once told me, nothing gives him greater joy than putting a smile on the faces of those in need.
At 48, Gwarzo stands as an achiever of excellence. He is the first Nigerian to establish four private universities. He singlehandedly founded the first English-language university in the Republic of Niger Maryam Abacha American University of Niger. In 2021, the Maryam Abacha American University of Nigeria (MAAUN) commenced academic activities with four faculties.
MAAUN Kano, as it is fondly known among students, began with over 1,000 students, an unprecedented feat in the history of private universities in Nigeria. No other private university in the country has commenced operations with such a large initial student population.
At its most recent convocation, the university graduated 41 First Class students across different disciplines, the largest and most outstanding convocation ceremony by any private university in Kano State.
Driven by his deep passion for education and in response to the growing demand for quality learning in Kaduna State, Professor Gwarzo went on to establish the Franco-British International University, which is set to commence academic activities this year.
In 2023, he was granted a provisional operational license to begin academic activities at the Canadian University of Nigeria, Abuja. The university is strategically located in Jabi, at the heart of the Federal Capital Territory.
Professor Adamu Abubakar Gwarzo’s life journey reflects hard work, discipline, prudence, and the fear of God. I have rarely encountered anyone as genuinely committed to the progress and success of his associates as he is.
His generosity truly knows no bounds. Like my other mentor, Dr. H. K. Adam, Professor Gwarzo taught me the true meaning of humanity. His philanthropy cuts across religious and ethnic lines. When asked why he supports both Muslims and Christians alike, his response was simple yet profound: humanity matters, irrespective of tribe, religion, or race.
Professor Gwarzo is a philanthropist of note. He donated a nine-storey building to serve as the headquarters of the North West Development Commission in Kano. Just two days ago, he made a similar gesture in Abuja by donating another building to PRNigeria, where the PRNigeria Academy will be established. These are in addition to numerous silent donations to individuals, hospitals, and communities across the country.
Generosity remains his greatest passion. In his own words, he will continue to give “until the conversion of the Jews.”
As you continue to inspire our generation through the provision of quality education, may you be blessed with peace, joy, and fulfilment. It is our hope that generations yet unborn will continue to benefit from your intellect, wisdom, and visionary leadership.
I wish you a very happy 48th birthday and many happy returns of the day, my Professor, Leader, and Benefactor.
Adnan Mukhtar is a Public Relations Consultant, University Lecturer and a Doctoral Candidate at Bayero University Kano