Tribute To Prof. Jibrin Aminu @85 : A Testament To Exceptional Leadership And Service

Tribute to Prof. Jibrin Aminu @85 : A Testament to Exceptional Leadership and Service

By Tom Garba, Yola

As Prof. Jibrin Aminu celebrates his 85th birthday on August 25, tributes poured in from various quarters, extolling his virtues as an exceptional leader, scholar, and statesman.

Dr. Aliyu Idi Hong, a young and agile, brave and forthright, intelligent and versatile former Minister of State for Health and Foreign Affairs, described Prof. Aminu as “the northern legend, with exceptional social and emotional intelligence, uncommon competence, and deep erudition.”

Prof. Aminu’s illustrious career spans several decades, marked by distinction and excellence in various fields.

Born in August 1939 in Song, Adamawa State, he rose from humble beginnings to become a renowned Consultant Cardiologist, educational administrator, politician, and diplomat.

His academic achievements are impressive, with distinctions in all subjects in the West African School Certificate Examination (WASCE) in 1957 and a Ph.D. in Medicine from the Royal Post-Graduate Medical School.

As a scholar and educational administrator, Prof. Aminu served as Visiting Professor of Medicine at Howard University College of Medicine, Washington DC, and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Maiduguri.

He was the pioneer Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission (NUC) from 1975 to 1979, laying the foundation for the regulation and orderly development of university education in Nigeria.

Dr. Hong noted that as NUC chief, Prof. Aminu convinced President Yakubu Gowon and subsequently General Obasanjo to create seven additional universities and as education minister, he was the originator of the 6-3-3-4 system and several other good policies.

He added that as petroleum minister, Prof Aminu showed vision by embarking on massive expansion of petroleum products pipeline networks and creation of additional depots as part of national contingency plans. “He created the Abuja-Minna- Kaduna and Port Harcourt- Yola-Maiduguri networks,” he said.

In recognition of his achievements, the NUC staff housing estate built in Karu in 2000 was named after him.

In politics, Prof. Aminu held various positions, including Minister of Education, Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources, Nigerian Ambassador to the USA, and Senator for Adamawa Central constituency.

His contributions to education and public service are immense, with notable achievements such as the establishment of several new education parastatals and the creation of additional universities.

Dr. Hong, who regards Prof. Aminu as his mentor, praised his exceptional leadership qualities, saying, “He is a father, teacher, and mentor.”

He acknowledged the significant impact Prof. Aminu had on his own career, from director-general of Aminu’s campaign for Senate seat to secretary of the PDP in Adamawa State and eventually, a minister.

As Prof. Aminu celebrates this milestone birthday, his legacy continues to inspire and influence future generations.

His commitment to excellence, leadership, and service to humanity remains an enduring testament to his exceptional life and career.

Dr. Hong prays that God Almighty blesses and keeps Prof. Aminu. Ameen.