Adamu, a former Vice Chancellor of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), is an exceptional mentor who exposes young scholars and communicators to international platforms, nurturing their confidence, intellectual curiosity, and professional growth. He was due to retire from the university on April 25, 2026. The request required more than a simple “yes”; it demanded reflection.

Almost instinctively, my mind wandered through memories — of Professor Adamu’s visible impact in expanding NOUN’s accessibility, particularly in Northern Nigeria; of the many panels we shared where, as a keynote speaker, he masterfully deconstructed the complexities of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Journalism; and of his unannounced visits to our office, where he quietly observed how we engaged interns and mentored young communicators. His leadership was always remarkably human — measured, thoughtful, and deeply considerate. But before I could even respond, a tap on my shoulder shifted my attention as another update arrived — this time, in person.

The Chairman of the Board of Image Merchants Promotion Limited (IMPR), Dr. Sule Yau Sule, informed me that he was cutting short his stay at the NPRW to head to Abuja for a book presentation in honour of Professor Umaru Pate, a Professor of Media and Society and the immediate past Vice Chancellor of the Federal University, Kashere (FUK). I had received the invitation earlier but had almost overlooked it amid my packed schedule, which included a planned trip to Kano for a capacity building programme at the PRNigeria Centre.

Something about that moment felt instructive. Prof. Pate is another extraordinary and compassionate scholar — one who not only supports students while they are still learning but also opens doors for their recruitment and advancement.

Many practising journalists and communicators have benefited from his efforts in securing grants, aid, and scholarships, often without even knowing he was the facilitator. Recognising the significance of the occasion, I adjusted my plans and returned to Abuja to honour the scholar. What awaited was not just a book launch, but a gathering that reflected the depth and dignity of Nigeria’s academic and intellectual community.

The event brought together Vice Chancellors, politicians, scholars, journalists, traditional rulers, and students in what can best be described as a rare convergence of intellect and influence. It was, perhaps, the first time I attended a book presentation where nearly every contributor on the high table held a professorial or doctoral title—not merely the honorary prefix of “Dr. or doctor.” The book, titled “Umaru Pate: An Icon of Visionary Leadership, Knowledge Transformation and Impactful Change,” was edited by the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of FUK, Professor William Olu Adelumo, Professor William Olu Adelumo, himself a former Vice Chancellor in three universities.

With 182 pages in eleven chapters, the volume constructs a 360-degree portrait of Pate’s stewardship from 2021 to 2026. The review, delivered by Professor Muhammad Umar-Buratai, was both analytical and reflective, tracing Pate’s leadership philosophy to the enduring values of Fulani cultural ethos—patience, discipline, humility, courage, and wisdom. It was a reminder that leadership, at its core, is often a reflection of one’s formative environment.

The ceremony itself was chaired by Danjuma Goje, with Orji Uzor Kalu serving as Chief Launcher—two political figures whose presence and representation underscored the intersection between academia and governance. Yet, beyond speeches and accolades, what truly captured the essence of the event was a documentary titled “Putting FUK on the Pedestal of Development.” In a matter of minutes, the film did what pages of reports often struggle to achieve—it told a story of transformation with clarity and evidence. From newly constructed male and female hostels to modern lecture theatres, road networks, laboratories, and administrative blocks, the documentary showcased a university in motion.

It highlighted the establishment of a campus radio station broadcasting in multiple languages, the expansion of solar and internet infrastructure, the acquisition of vehicles and guest houses—even beyond the immediate campus environment. Perhaps most striking was the pursuit of a Medical College—an ambitious project that required not just