A Bond That Transcended Generations
Though I never had the privilege of studying alongside Alhaji Abubakar Sadauki Kura, our paths were destined to intertwine in the most meaningful ways. When I enrolled at Kura Junior Primary School in 1958, five years after Malam Abubakar had graduated, his legend already filled the corridors. During our morning assemblies, Malam Maitama Kura, our headmaster, consistently praised Malam Sadauki as the finest graduate the school had ever produced, second only to the late Malam Wada Kura of blessed memory. Even as a young student, I was inspired by the stories of this exceptional man who embodied humility, dedication, unwavering hard work, and an admirably down-to-earth nature.
A Partnership in Development
Years later, after completing my university education in 1975, fate brought us together in service to our community. Alongside distinguished colleagues like Malam Yahaya Muhammad Kura, the late Senator Hamisu Musa, and Sule Umar Kura, I had the honor of working with Malam Abubakar Sadauki Kura in establishing the Kura Development Association. Under the chairmanship of the late Malam Wada Kura, with Malam Sadauki as his capable assistant, we embarked on an ambitious mission that covered the present Kura Local Government, Madobi Local Government, and Garun Malam Local Government areas.
It was here that I witnessed firsthand Malam Sadauki’s exceptional competence as a planning officer. His profound knowledge and extensive experience became the foundation upon which we built our comprehensive development plan. Together, we charted a course to bring electricity to our communities, advance agricultural development, and provide essential social amenities to our people. His strategic thinking and meticulous approach transformed our vision into actionable plans that benefited generations to come.
An Exemplary Academic and Professional Journey
Malam Sadauki’s academic excellence was as remarkable as his character. After leaving Kura Junior Primary School, he progressed through Kano Middle School (1950-1953), then to Kano Provincial Secondary School, now known as Rumfa College (1954-1960). His pursuit of knowledge led him to King’s College, Lagos, for his Higher School Certificate (1961-1962), and ultimately to the University of Ibadan, Nigeria’s premier institution, where he earned his B.Sc. Honours in Economics in 1966.
The Northern Nigerian Government immediately recognized his potential, appointing him as a planning officer from 1966-1968. His commitment to excellence took him across the Atlantic to Williams College, Massachusetts, in the United States of America, where he earned his Master’s degree in Economics (1969-1970). With the creation of Kano State in 1967, he returned home as the first indigenous economic planning officer—a testament to his pioneering spirit and exceptional qualifications.
A Distinguished Public Service Career
Throughout his illustrious career in public service, Malam Sadauki demonstrated remarkable competence and integrity. He served with distinction as Acting Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Economic Planning and Ministry of Local Government before becoming the substantive Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education. His expertise and dedication caught the attention of Air Commodore Hamza Abdullahi, who appointed him Secretary to the Military Government and Head of Service from 1984-1986.
I will forever cherish the moment in July 1986 when Governor Ahmad Muhammad Daku approved my appointment as Permanent Secretary of the Kano State Ministry of Education. It was Malam Abubakar Sadauki Kura who had the honor of signing my appointment letter—a gesture that symbolized not just administrative duty, but the passing of responsibility from one generation of dedicated public servants to another. For this pivotal moment in my career, I remain eternally grateful. His service to the nation extended to the federal level when he served as Federal Commissioner of the National Revenue Mobilization, Allocation and Fiscal Commission from September 1999 to September 2004, where he discharged his responsibilities with characteristic excellence and integrity.
Excellence in the Private Sector
Malam Sadauki’s competence transcended public service into the private sector, where he made significant contributions to Nigeria’s banking industry. He served with distinction at Union Bank as Area Manager and Assistant General Manager, later becoming Executive Director of First Bank PLC. His leadership capabilities were further demonstrated as Chairman of Bank of the North and Director of Unity Bank, where his strategic vision and financial expertise contributed to the growth and stability of these institutions.
A Legacy of Community Service
It is noteworthy to mention that the people of Kano and Jigawa States established the Kano Foundation (Gidauniyar Kano) in 1986 with the assistance of prominent and well-meaning citizens such as Alhaji Aminu Alasan Dantata, Khalifa Isyaku Rabiu, Aliko Dangote, Alhaji Ibrahim Baban Kowa, and many others. Until his passing on Monday, September 15, 2025, Malam Sadauki remained committed to community development through the Kano Foundation. Working alongside other distinguished Board of Trustees members, including Alhaji Aminu Alasan Dantata as Chairman, Prof. S.A.S. Galadanchi, Isyaku Umar Tofa, Prof. Tijjani Ismail, Yusuf Hassan, Umar Faruk Abdullahi, Auwalu Ilu, Muhammad Nasiru Sani (Jakaraden Kazaure), and myself, Saidu Zakari Garun Babba, he served as Chairman of the Management Committee of the Foundation. His leadership in this role reflected his lifelong dedication to improving the lives of our people.
The Sportsman and the Man
Beyond his professional achievements, Malam Sadauki was an accomplished sportsman who represented Nigeria in hockey alongside Malam Mai Kusurwa Kura, the first Wambai of Ringim. His excellence on the hockey field mirrored his excellence in every other endeavor—disciplined, strategic, and committed to representing his country with honor.
A Personal Reflection
Throughout our relationship spanning decades, I consistently observed in Malam Abubakar Sadauki Kura the same qualities that made him legendary at Kura Junior Primary School: unwavering humility, absolute dedication, tireless hard work, and meticulous attention to detail. He approached every responsibility, whether as a student, planning officer, permanent secretary, federal commissioner, bank executive, or community leader, with the same level of commitment and competence that set him apart as truly exceptional. His mentorship shaped not only my career but also my understanding of what it means to serve with integrity. He demonstrated that true leadership lies not in commanding from above, but in lifting others while maintaining the highest standards of excellence.
Farewell to a Giant
With Malam Sadauki’s death, I have lost more than a colleague or superior—I have lost an elder brother and a mentor whose guidance illuminated my path through decades of public service. Kano State has lost a pillar of strength, a beacon of competence, and a leader whose contributions will endure for generations. As we bid farewell to this remarkable man, I pray that Allah will forgive his sins, reward him abundantly for his countless contributions to our community and nation, and grant us all, especially his immediate family, the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss. Malam Abubakar Sadauki Kura’s life was a testament to the power of education, hard work, and unwavering commitment to service. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations of leaders who seek to follow in his footsteps of excellence, integrity, and dedication to the betterment of society.
May his soul rest in perfect peace.
Saidu Zakari Garun Babba, a former Kano State Commissioner for Finance, writes from Nassarawa GRA, Kano.
