TRIBUTE TO ALHAJI IBRAHIM NA'AYI SALIHU

Late Alhaji Ibrahim Na'ayi Salihu

BY IBRAHIM MUSA MAIZARE

As we gather  to mourn the passing of our beloved Father and mentor Alhaji Ibrahim Na'ayi Salihu, we also come together to celebrate a life filled with purpose, integrity, and immense contribution to the world of journalism and beyond. His journey on this earth, though concluded, leaves a legacy that will echo through time, impacting future generations.

Born into a world that would later witness his significant contributions, Alhaji Ibrahim faced life's challenges with remarkable resilience. His commitment to his family, work, and faith were evident in everything he did. At 75 years of age, he left behind two loving wives, 17 children both male and female along with 40 grandchildren, all of whom carry the torch of his legacy.

A passionate advocate for the truth, Alhaji Ibrahim dedicated himself to the field of journalism, serving as a former Editor of The Path Newspaper in Sokoto. His integrity and dedication during those formative years set the standard for many young journalists who followed in his footsteps. He transformed the newspaper into a platform that educated, informed, and connected the community. His journey in journalism began with the New Nigerian Newspaper, where he honed his skills and developed a deep understanding of the power and responsibility of the press.

His commitment to responsible reporting continued as he ascended to the role of Managing Director of The Path Newspaper, where he championed responsible reporting and emphasized the importance of ethics in the media. His time in this role revealed his visionary approach and commitment to journalism as a cornerstone of democracy.

After the creation of Zamfara State, Alhaji Ibrahim was appointed as the Director of Press Affairs at the Government House in Gusau by Colonel Jibril Bala Yakubu. This role underscored his unwavering commitment to public service, as he sought to ensure that the voice of the people was not only heard but amplified.

Within the Ministry of Information and Culture, he again showcased his unyielding passion for communication and media. His influence there was marked by innovative strategies that promoted transparency and engagement between the government and the citizens it served.

Alhaji Ibrahim's impact extended far beyond the walls of newsrooms and government offices; he played a pivotal role in shaping public opinion and fostering a culture of accountability. His contributions as the Managing Director of Legacy Newspaper during the administration of Alhaji Mahmud Aliyu Shinkafi further solidified his reputation as a leader who understood the importance of the press in a democratic society.

He was a dedicated mentor, instilling a love for journalism in his mentees, guiding many young journalists through the complexities of the profession. It was through his guidance that many learned the value of factual reporting and the necessity of upholding the truth, regardless of societal pressures.

A deeply compassionate man, Alhaji Ibrahim was always ready to lend a helping hand or share his wisdom with anyone in need. He understood that journalism was not just a job but a calling, one that required empathy and a commitment to serving the public good. He inspired many not only through his work but through his character.

Today, as we commemorate his life, we find comfort in the profound impact he has made on our lives and society. His legacy is visible in the careers of his children, including Mahadi Ibrahim of the Nigeria Agricultural Quarantine Service, Naziru Ibrahim of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture, Salihu Ibrahim of the Federal Ministry of Environment, and Lukman Ibrahim of the Federal Medical Centre Katsina. Each of them embodies the values he instilled.

Moreover, dignitaries from all walks of life, including Islamic scholars, politicians, civil servants, and businessmen, have come forth to pay their respects, testifying to the respect and admiration he garnered throughout his life. His influence transcended boundaries, bringing people together in moments of shared grief and remembrance.

Alhaji Ibrahim Na'ayi Salihu’s funeral prayer was a testament to the love and honor bestowed upon him, led by his own son, Salihu Ibrahim. It is a poignant reminder of the enduring bond between a father and his children a legacy that will continue through them and their own families.

As we navigate our own paths in life, we carry with us the lessons we learned from Alhaji Ibrahim. His passion for journalism, his love for community, and his unwavering pursuit of truth serve as guiding principles for us all. Each of us, touched by his mentorship, is now tasked with upholding these values.

Though he has left this earthly realm, his spirit and teachings will forever reverberate through our actions and our dedication to the field he cherished so deeply. We commit to honoring his memory by continuing the work he loved and by striving to embody the integrity he so passionately upheld.

In conclusion, we bid farewell to Alhaji Ibrahim Na'ayi Salihu and implore his memory and grant him the highest place in Jannah. His legacy will live on in our hearts, our minds, and our unwavering commitment to the ideals he championed. We will forever cherish the moments shared, the lessons learned, and the love he poured into our lives. Alhaji Ibrahim, you will never be forgotten.