Remembering Khalifa: A Life of Extraordinary Kindness and Selflessness

By Muhammad Mahdi Halliru  

In the quiet hours of Saturday, 23rd September, 2023, we found ourselves grappling with the profound loss of a truly exceptional individual, Ibrahim Mansur (Khalifa). On that sombre day, we lost not just a dependable friend, but also a cherished son, a devoted brother, a loving husband, and a nurturing father. Kano mourned the departure of a remarkable civil servant, one who seamlessly blended public service with entrepreneurial spirit. Our alumni community felt the void left by an active member and distinguished scholar. Our wider community grieved for the loss of an unwavering philanthropist. Khalifa touched the lives of everyone he encountered, leaving a lasting legacy of kindness and generosity. His departure left a void that can never truly be filled, not only in the hearts of his friends but also within his family, his beloved community, and far beyond. Khalifa'sjourney to the next realm seemed untimely, but in the tapestry of life, every thread plays its part. Inna lillahi wa Inna ilaihirajiun – Indeed, we belong to Allah, and to Him, we shall return.

Born on the 24th of October, 1993, Khalifa's return to the Almighty came far too soon, yet he managed to etch indelible marks upon the canvas of our hearts during his short time on this earthly plane. His legacy will forever be etched in the annals of our memories. As Muslims, we understand that every soul must return to its Creator at the appointed hour. The loss of a loved one is always a heart-wrenching experience, but the untimely departure of such a vibrant soul, especially for his family and close friends, is a devastating blow. Our prayers go out to Almighty Allah, beseeching Him to grant Khalifa's family and friends the strength to endure this profound loss.

One could scarcely quantify the roles Khalifa played in the lives of those who knew him. To his family, he was an obedient and devoted son, a pillar of strength as a loving brother, an exemplary husband, and an ever-caring father. His presence was a constant source of comfort, a reassuring reminder that love knows no bounds, transcending time and distance.

In the professional realm, Khalifa embodied a rare blend of public service and entrepreneurship, becoming a shining example of excellence in both. Kano, the community he served with dedication, lost a fine civil servant who brought passion and integrity to his role. Simultaneously, the entrepreneurial spirit within him thrived, a testament to his multifaceted talents.

As an alumnus, Khalifa was more than just a member of our academic community; he was a scholar whose thirst for knowledge was insatiable. His active participation in alumni activities showcased his unwavering commitment to fostering the growth and development of those who followed in his footsteps.

Beyond his immediate circles, Khalifa was a dependable philanthropist. His generosity knew no bounds, and he extended a helping hand to all in need, often without expectation of anything in return. His benevolence rippled through our community, leaving a legacy of compassion and kindness that will continue to touch lives.

Shortly after Khalifa's Janaza, as I was about to enter my car, I overheard a passer-by inquiring about the multitude of mourners. When told of Khalifa’s passing, he remarked, "This must truly be a 'big man,'" observing the throngs of people in attendance. It was then that I realized, with a profound sense of fulfilment, that even in his youth, Khalifa was indeed a "BIG MAN" in every sense of the term. His heart was larger than life, surpassing even some of the most influential men I have encountered.

There is a Hadith narrated by Anas, which tells of a funeral procession passing by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). People praised the deceased, and the Prophet declared Paradise assured for them. Another procession received criticism, and the Prophet declared their destiny to be Hell. When asked about this, the Prophet explained that the testimony of the people is accepted, for believers are Allah's witnesses on Earth. Hundreds who attended Khalifa's funeral showered him with positive encomiums, for, every interaction Khalifa had with people overflowed with positivity. His legacy was indeed affirmed as one destined for Jannah, for his goodness and kindness were evident to all. 

The Kano State Ministry of Lands has lost an irreplaceable estate surveyor. His academic prowess was undeniable, graduating in estate management with first-class honors, and he continued to excel in his profession throughout his career. Khalifa's dedication to his work was matched only by his professionalism, earning the respect and admiration of colleagues and clients alike. He was a shining example of what it means to be a true expert in his field. His professionalism and ability to maintain strong relationships with colleagues and clients set him apart.

In the realm of alumni activities, Khalifa's impact was profound. His commitment to fostering good relationships and maintaining sustainable communication among members left an indelible mark. Through his efforts, virtually all alumni members were enriched by the bonds they formed and the sense of unity he cultivated. Khalifa was not just a professional success; he was a success in the art of human connection. His deep religiosity was another facet of his character that set him apart. He is fondly remembered by friends for his regular reminders on WhatsApp for the Sunnah fasts of Mondays and Thursdays, a testament to his unwavering faith. During his university days, he actively coordinated Islamic lessons in the campus mosque, spreading the light of knowledge and spirituality.

Khalifa was a philanthropist of extraordinary calibre. Despite hailing from a middle-class background, he possessed a unique gift for connecting with people from all social divides, although he often preferred to align with the lower class due to his remarkable humility. His passion for humanity and community development was extraordinary, evident in his selfless offering of professional services to community causes, all without seeking monetary gain or recognition. He was, in every sense, a philanthropist who understood that the truest riches are found in the well-being of others.

Khalifa's life was a shining example for young people to emulate. His exemplary life, reminiscent of the prophets of Allah from the past, seemed like a divine gift to guide and teach those fortunate enough to know him. In his kindness, professionalism, devotion, and humility, he embodied the values we should all strive to uphold.

As we bid farewell to Khalifa, we pray to Almighty Allah to forgive any shortcomings he may have had, grant him the highest place in Jannah, and bless his family and friends with the strength to bear this loss. Aameen. In his memory, may we continue to draw inspiration from the remarkable life he lived and the legacy of love and kindness he leaves behind. Aameen.

Muhammad Mahdi Halliru is a banking professional and writes from Kano, Nigeria.

Nurturing Nigeria's SME Sector for Economic Resilience: A Collaborative and Transformative Approach

 By Muhammad Mahdi Halliru 

In the backdrop of an engaging late-night conversation with friends who share a fervent interest in business, the challenges that loom over the business landscape, particularly within the medium and small-scale enterprise (SME) arena, assumed the spotlight. Nigeria, a nation rich in potential, finds itself contending with a complex web of economic obstacles: soaring inflation, the specter of mounting unemployment, and the unpredictable fluctuations of exchange rates. These challenges, with their wide-ranging repercussions, have wrought disproportionate impacts upon the microeconomic sectors of the nation. The specter of import dependence, in the face of an endeavor to foster a resilient productive economy, casts an ominous shadow over Nigeria's growth trajectory.

Nonetheless, amidst the intricate tapestry of these trials, the SME sector of Nigeria continues to emerge as a vibrant and indomitable force. Comprising enterprising and ingenious youth, this sector wields a transformative potential capable of shaping meaningful change. Yet, within the nucleus of this potential, exists an insurmountable impediment: the stumbling block of accessing finances that would fuel their expansion. Herein lies the pivotal role of financial institutions, namely banks, as the conduits of resource redistribution. These institutions play a vital role in channeling resources from surplus sectors to shore up sectors grappling with deficits. However, the prevailing conditions of procuring financial aid from banks frequently tilt the scales in favor of the big players, often demanding onerous collateral. This poses a formidable challenge for small-scale operators bereft of such collateral assets.

It is imperative to discern that the mandate for collateral is not solely a byproduct of prudential guidelines dictated by banking regulators; rather, it is intrinsically linked to banks' unwavering commitment to preserving deposits and the broader public interest. In fulfilling this commitment, banks are entrusted with the responsibility of ensuring that the credit dispensed is fortified by a steadfast commitment to repayment, all in service of shielding the funds of their clientele and upholding financial equilibrium. This cautious and conservative approach, while undoubtedly well-intentioned, inadvertently sidelines and sidelines potentially groundbreaking SMEs that could be the very catalysts for unprecedented economic growth.

Recent times have borne witness to an intriguing policy proposal from the Tinubu administration: a monthly relief package aimed at bolstering vulnerable households in the wake of petrol subsidy removal to the tune of N500billion. Although this policy's trajectory ultimately culminated in a reversal due to vocal public dissent, it brings to light a broader need for sustainable interventions. This moment underscores the critical necessity of interventions that possess the innate potential to elevate the microeconomy by nurturing the SME sector. Rather than funneling funds indiscriminately, a more prudent utilization would involve channeling these resources into initiatives that can foment lasting and transformative change.

To truly unleash the latent potential embedded within Nigeria's SME sector, an integrated and collaborative approach that coalesces governmental initiatives with the efforts of financial institutions is paramount. An illustrative proposition emerges from the original ₦500 billion budget allocated for the suspended palliative. These funds could be synergistically channeled through financial institutions, sculpting a robust and sustainable framework to bolster SMEs spanning an array of sectors. Instead of direct allocation, these funds could function as a guarantee to fortify credit extended by banks to promising SMEs. By virtue of this symbiotic risk-sharing arrangement, the government emboldens banks to extend credit to enterprises that demonstrate nascent potential, even in the absence of substantial collateral.

Innovating a collaborative framework that propels SMEs through the vehicle of financial institutions begets a cascade of multifaceted benefits. It begets job creation, serving as a crucible for intensified production, thereby quelling the specter of import dependence and amplifying export capacities. With heightened economic dynamism, the perpetual cycle of dependency on foreign goods can be definitively disrupted, paving an avenue toward sustainable growth and an augmented economic resilience.

While the Nigerian government continues its resolute investment in macroeconomic factors and the bedrock of pivotal infrastructure projects, the need to engineer interventions that empower the SME sector grows ever more critical. By coalescing energies with financial institutions and meticulously repurposing allocated funds into the architecture of credit guarantees for SMEs, the government heralds an epoch of transformative change within the microeconomy. Such a multidimensional approach not only nurtures the seeds of sustainable growth while diminishing import reliance but it also incubates an ecosystem wherein the nation's enterprising youth can ardently unleash their reservoir of untapped innovation.

The synergy of meticulous planning, judicious allocation of resources, and the alchemy of collaborative determination position Nigeria at the crossroads of forging a trail toward economic opulence and unshakable resilience. By kindling the embers of the SME sector's potential, the nation not only charts a trajectory toward self-reliance but also ignites a beacon that guides the narrative of economic empowerment and sustained progress. In this holistic endeavor, Nigeria emerges not only as a reservoir of untapped potential but as a laboratory where the alchemy of collaboration and innovation propels the nation toward prosperity's hallowed shores.

Muhammad Mahdi Haliru writes from Kano, Nigeria