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By Henry Akubuiro
It was yet another mark of honour for the Nigerian Folklore Society (NFS) president, Dr. Bukar Usman, as Bura Women Development Association (BUWDA) presented a roll-up banner as part of activities commemorating his 83rd birthday in Abuja recently.
Led by Mrs. Ladu Gali, Acting President of BUWDA, the group commended the former permanent secretary in the Presidency for his contributions towards the downtrodden in our society, as well as showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Bura people in southern Borno to the world. The prolific author was born in 1942 in Biu, Borno State.
The inscriptions on the roll-up banner by BUWDA read: “Dear Dr. Bukar Usman. Grand Happy Birthday to You Sir, our Father, Uncle and Mentor, A man of integrity.
The banner went on to describe Dr. Usman as “God’s gift to Bura land. A God fearing and absolutely amazing personality. An exemplary leader, dogged and dependable, caring and compassionate.”
It also stated: “As you mark this special birthday, may it come with every ramification of God’s blessings that your heart ever yearned for. May the Almighty grant you good health and peace of mind and desires of your heart as you age in God’s abundant grace, Amen.”
Usman was grateful to the delegation for their kind gesture and sacrifice to rejoice with him. He thanked God for sparing his life to date and His blessings upon his life and entire family.
The prolific author, who writes in English and Hausa, encouraged his age mates to always be grateful to God for His blessings in sparing their lives, in spite of the high challenges of today. He also prayed for God’s abundant blessings upon the younger generation.
The celebrity public intellectual reasoned that the world was becoming a global village with accompanying negative and positive influences from the immediate environment and outside, which might prove to be very formidable.
He urged the federal government to tackle some of the issues affecting security and welfare of the people. He added: “I appeal to the government to prioritise the welfare and security of the population and ensure inclusive development in the country.”
Lending his voice to the overflowing tributes, Amb. Abdullahi Shehu said: “83 is remarkable, because he has attained the rare and enviable age of 83. I join you, your family and loved ones in giving gratitude to Almighty Allah for His mercies on you and your family.
“As a leader in public service, you have made an indelible mark on public service and security management especially, in Nigeria and your name has been written on the sands of history.
“As our mentor, we cannot thank you enough for your tutelage. May Allah continue to favour you with a long life in good health and sound mind.”
Usman’s 83rd birthday was celebrated nationwide by his family, friends, well wishers, corporate organisations and the literary community.
