Opinion
Celebrating the exit of an icon: Ishaq Abubakar Sadeeq
By Nasir Imam
Another milestone in the array of accomplishment of service with humility was marked when Ishaq Abubakar Sadeeq, the immediate past Director of Admin and Finance (DAF) in the FCT Agriculture and Rural Development Secretariat, was recently feted as he bowed out from public service.
The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) is indeed a home to many exemplary individuals who embody the nation’s potential for greatness, therefore it is fit and proper to celebrate a man whose life story is a testament to the power of hard work, discipline and integrity.
There is surely truth in the philosophy that says whatever you give will come back to you.
Colleagues have attested to how honored they have been to have had the privilege of working alongside him and witnessed his transformative efforts.
As Ishaq Abubakar Sadiq, who is the Dan Iyan Keffi, was extolled at the reception in Abuja by those who crossed his path, they were unanimous in saying he changed the narrative with his open door policy and generosity of spirit, as he was an amazing colleague whose office was a rallying point that provided the necessary succor.
The astute administrator has proven to be an experienced mentor, who is always at home with his proteges, always providing them with his guidance and opportunities for growth.
He created a legacy that will resonate for years to come, because his leadership, always by example, brought a guiding light, inspiring with unwavering commitment, boundless energy and visionary thinking.
Ishaq Abubakar Sadeeq’s meritorious service and sacrifice for the growth and development of the FCTA, his unwavering leadership, which continues to inspire, and his wisdom and dedication, has remained relevant in government circles.
Little wonder, they said, his office (and home) is always filled up with those who come to seek his favour, as he is always ready to lend his institutional experience to throw light on issues that require some unknotting, which enabled the ARD secretariat to take right decisions on any matter.
Abubakar Sadeeq is one who provides fatherly care, who made a difference with his leadership style, a problem solver and a friend to count and one who will always be deeply appreciated.
A man of honor and consistency, in words, action and appearance, he was a civil servant with a spectacular niche and style that was rare and remarkable in the FCT Adiminstration.
He was a core administrator whose indomitable spirit, dynamics, dexterity and compassion is unmatched and unparalleled even among his peers. His level of contentment is very exemplary.
With a legacy of leadership, mentorship, and compassion that transcends boundaries, the countless lives he’s transformed is a true testament to his character and his service to humanity.
His legacy of service and genuine concern for the well-being of others have set him apart as a shining example for all.
They indeed affirmed Ishaq’s contributions which they described as invaluable and said he stands as a beacon of hope and inspiration.
These were the words of praise from an unprecedented crowd of supporters and well-wishers just after he had retired from service, and all prayed that the Almighty will continue to be with him and keep him as fit as a fiddle.
The celebrant, in a brief remark at the occasion, thanked everyone and advised all public servants to imbibe patience if they want to be successful.
Born 2nd of September 1965 in Keffi, Nassarawa State, Ishaq Abubakar Sadeeq in his early years attended Abdul Zanga Primary School Keffi where he obtained his First School Leaving Certificate in 1977, In 1982 he did his General Certificate Examination at GSS Lafia.
In 1988 he obtained a Bachelor of Science Degree in (Sociology) from the prestigious Ahmadu Bello University Zaria and in 2011 he had his Masters in Public Administration from the Nassarawa State University, Keffi.
Here’s a man who has served variously for the Federal Capital Territory Administration in different capacities.
Ishaq Abubakar Sadeeq started his civil service career in 1989 and he rose to be a Director in 2019 and Director Admin and Finance in the Agriculture and Rural Development Secretariat before his retirement.
His administrative experience saw him as the Secretary Taskforce on allocation of Houses in the FCT, Secretary, Ministerial Tender Board, Head of Administration Treasury Department FCT, Head of Administration Abuja Environmental Protection Board (AEPB), Deputy Director in Charge of Appointment, Promotion and Discipline, and also member, Ministerial Committee on COVID-19.
He has attended quite a number of trainings and workshop and is married with children and grandchildren.
We honor not only his achievements but also his character. His legacy serves as a reminder that true greatness lies not in seeking recognition or power but in serving others with humility and compassion.
Here’s to Ishaq Abubakar Sadeeq, a shining example of humility and sophistication, selflessness, wisdom, and kindness garbed in humility, who after turning many daunting task easy, emphasized the importance of achieving true impeccable leadership among his team.
As you embrace the freedom to explore all the things you’ve always wanted to do, may your retirement be filled with cherished moments with loved ones, and the pursuit of passions that bring happiness.
As you enter this new phase of life, your life has been a testament to the power of humility, inspiring generations to harmonize their actions with their values.
Today, after 35 years of meritorious service to his Fatherland, as we mark the bowing out of office of one of FCTA’s finest, who knows his onions, we pay tribute to a leader, mentor, and icon whose impact resounds louder than any melody, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of all who’ve had the privilege of crossing paths with him.
The Holy Books indeed said there’s a time for everything, a time to come in and a time to go out, so while wishing you a fulfilling and joyous retirement, may it be as amazing as you are, filled with joy, adventure and well-deserved relaxation.
Nasir Imam, a media practitioner, wrote from Abuja
By Rinret Jennifer Mwarap
The unrelenting massacre of citizens in Plateau State has reached an alarming level. While the government claims to be taking steps to restore order, the reality on the ground tells a different story one that feels like nothing meaningful is being done.
It is heartbreaking to see our loved ones butchered without cause. The questions torment us: What have we done wrong? Who have we offended? Where did we go astray? Must we continue to endure this suffering for no justifiable reason?
The killing of innocent people in Plateau must come to an end. The government and security forces cannot afford to look away. Their responsibility is clear they must act swiftly and decisively to bring the perpetrators to justice, for the sake of the innocent victims and the children left behind.
I call on the Governor of Plateau State to rise to this challenge. Take bold and immediate action against those who seek to destroy our land and shed innocent blood. Let them face the full weight of the law.
This feels like a nightmare—how did we get to the point where the same Plateau where I once slept peacefully with both eyes closed is now a place where even sleeping with one eye open feels unsafe?
Where is the peace in our “Home of Peace and Tourism”?
When will our tears dry? When will justice prevail?
If we truly seek peace, then justice must be non-negotiable.
Ken Nnamani, a former president of the senate, says he did not beg Elisha Abbo, a former senator representing Adamawa north, on behalf of any judge after the ex-lawmaker lost his election case in court.
In October 2023, the court of appeal sacked Abbo and declared Amos Yohanna, candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), as the winner of the Adamawa north senatorial election.
Appearing on Channels Television on Wednesday, Abbo said he was a victim of “miscarriage of justice”.
The former senator said Nnamani pleaded with him on behalf of a judge after he lost his election case in 2023.
Reacting in a statement, the former senate president described Abbo’s claim as “blatant lies”.
“My greatest surprise was to hear him state that Senator Ken Nnamani visited him to plead with him on behalf of a judge for the miscarriage of justice. This statement is a blatant lie. I do not know how Senator Abbo can boldly fabricate an event that never happened to buttress his allegation of judicial miscarriage against him,” he said.
“For the avoidance of doubt, I have never visited Senator Elisha Abbo at his house or anywhere. Up to this moment, I do not know where he lives. I have never discussed with him about his case, or any case pending or decided by any court of law in Nigeria.
“The only time I met with him was when he visited me in my house. It was more of a social visit by him. At this meeting, we never discussed his case or any case. I recall that when the matter of his political career came up, I advised him to avoid controversies as a young politician.
“The statements Senator Abbo made regarding me and his case are all fabrications. I believe I have had a sterling and distinguished public service career. I am determined to maintain my integrity and commitment to excellence till the end of my life.”
Heineken Lokpobiri, minister of state for petroleum resources, says the federal government plans to commence implementing the drill-or-drop provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA).
Section 94 of the PIA gives operators a period of three years to begin oil production or relinquish the assets to the federal government.
Speaking during the Cross Industry Group (CIG) meeting held on Tuesday in Florence, Italy, Lokpobiri said it is in the best interest of the country that all inactive wells go to work.
He said the federal government, under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, has provided every necessary incentive to ensure international oil companies (IOCs) in Nigeria run smoothly and profitably.
“Now, it is imperative for these industry players to match the government’s efforts with increased investment by announcing final investment decisions (FIDs),” he said.
Furthermore, Lokpobiri discussed “the challenges, expectations, and measures to enhance the sector’s contributions towards domestic energy needs and regional expansion across Sub-Saharan Africa”.
He emphasised that while IOCs have highlighted engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) contractors as a challenge, “EPCs will not come unless they see strong commitments from industry players”.
“The government has done its part to provide the requisite and investment-friendly fiscals, the ball is now in the court of the IOCs and other operators to make strategic investment decisions that will drive increased production and sustainability in the sector,” he said.
“We must also recognise that domestic crude supply is essential to national energy security. The best solution to this challenge lies in increasing production, which will ensure a balance between domestic supply obligations and external commitments.”
The minister further urged industry players to explore collaborative measures, such as shared resources for contiguous assets and the release of underutilised assets to operators ready to invest in production.