On this day, September 1, 2025, I join countless others in celebrating a remarkable leader, mentor, and role model — Mallam Nasir Ɗanladi Bako, Ph.D., OON, Kogunan Sokoto — as he marks his 68th birthday.
My relationship with him began when he was my very first Director General at the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC). Indeed, it was he who employed me into the Commission. What makes that moment unforgettable is the way it happened: unlike many others who attached letters of introduction from ministers, senators, and other powerful figures, I submitted my application without a single recommendation. Yet, Dr. Ɗanladi Bako looked at my credentials and simply wrote, “Please shortlist.” That single act of fairness and merit changed the course of my professional life. Out of over seven thousand applications, only a little above forty of us were eventually employed.
Dr. Bako’s leadership style was one that recognized and rewarded excellence. He never overlooked hard work, no matter how quiet or unassuming the worker might be. He had an extraordinary memory for people — whether a security guard in Uyo, a cleaner in Lagos, a gardener in Akure, or even a newspaper vendor in Maiduguri. He valued everyone under his care and could call them by name.
I experienced this firsthand when, just months into my service as Chief Public Affairs Officer, he selected me — a newcomer — to accompany him on a courtesy visit to Governor Ahmad Muhammad Maƙarfi of Kaduna State. To my astonishment, he introduced me to the Governor by my full name and designation. That moment captured who he truly is: a leader who notices, remembers, and uplifts people.
Dr. Bako was also remarkably generous. He cared for staff in both big and small ways. I still recall when I managed to buy a car years into my service. Upon hearing about it, he stepped out of his office, inspected the car himself, and handed me ₦10,000 to buy fuel — a substantial gift in the year 2001.
Beyond generosity, he was deeply invested in our growth. When he discovered I had not been given enough responsibility in the Public Affairs Unit, he personally ensured I was assigned meaningful duties. He encouraged me to write articles about the Commission and publish them, and he made sure those efforts were recognized through commendation letters.
Long before our paths crossed in person, I knew him as a household name from the 1980s when he produced the popular NTA Sokoto programme Request Time. His flawless command of English, eloquence, and professionalism left a lasting impression on me as a young student of English. In fact, he was one of the influences that inspired me to pursue English at the university. His creativity, hard work, and versatility — producing and presenting up to five programmes a week, and winning multiple awards for Best Producer, Best Presenter, and Best All-Round Staff — were already legendary.
Years later, fate brought us together again when he was Commissioner of Information in Sokoto, while I served as Zonal Director of NBC Sokoto Zone. Our working relationship remained as cordial and inspiring as ever.
Today, as I reflect on his life at 68, I see a trailblazer who has left indelible footprints in broadcasting, public service, and mentorship. His life is a testimony that integrity, merit, and humanity can coexist with excellence and authority.
Happy 68th Birthday, Mallam Nasir Ɗanladi Bako! May Allah grant you long life, good health, and continued fulfillment. You will always remain my mentor, role model, and an inspiration.
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