Heart full, pen ready. This is the tribute I have been longing to write.
Seven years ago, long before Ali arrived on the 6th floor, I encountered a masterpiece tribute he wrote to his own mentor: Garba Shehu @60: Destined for the Top. It was then that I made a vow to myself that, should Providence grant us life to witness my uncle and mentor, Mal. Ali M. Ali, attain the diamond age on June 7, 2026, I would honour him with the exact same title, bearing a heavy weight of gratitude.
The clock chimed over a week ago, but writing took a back seat as I was occupied with organising the memorable Nurses and Midwives Connect Conference 2026 and, shortly thereafter, mourning the sudden demise of a colleague’s mother. May Allah SWT grant her eternal rest. Despite that, the pledge is kept.
Happy 60th birthday, Sir. To cross the threshold of a diamond jubilee in sound health and timeless vigour is not merely a milestone but a rare privilege granted to a select few. May your days continue to be blessed with sound health and wisdom. Amin.
Mal. Ali, a self-made gentleman, is a shining star in the media industry, with many achievements to his credit. He rose from humble beginnings to the prestigious position of Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN). However, titles never tell the whole story. Away from the newsroom, Ali is a devoted family man. I am of his blood. There is never a dull moment with Uncle Yaya. He constantly guides, nurtures and mentors us. He is incapable of uttering a word that would extinguish another person’s potential.
For many people, balancing the demanding worlds of journalism, reputation management and family responsibility does not come naturally. Ali, however, mastered the terrain, navigating both domains with remarkable precision. He earned admiration in both worlds.
By disposition, Mal. Ali is mild-mannered and soft-spoken. In words and deeds, he is a man of prayer and perseverance. He is driven by a vast reservoir of knowledge, believing it to be the foundation of lasting success. I learned from him early in life that knowledge is power and the surest guarantor of progress.
Beyond that, Mal. Ali is a charmer—sharp-witted, innovative and stylish. He is equally at home in traditional kaftans and Western attire. He is a playful icon who carries himself without pretence. He has an enduring passion for journalism, an unquenchable thirst for self-development and a remarkable ability to spot talent that others overlook.
Outside journalism, Ali’s infectious enthusiasm finds expression elsewhere. Motorcycling and basketball are impossible to miss. They call him “Dunk Wizz” on the court, though at 60, I am not entirely sure he would still attempt a dunk. On the bike, however, I would wager that he is still in motion, albeit at a gentler pace than before.
Congratulations, Sir, on arriving at the 6th floor. You are truly Destined for the Top. Even now, you carry the composure, energy and calmness of a youthful spirit. Happy birthday once again, Sir. May Allah SWT preserve you. Amin.
If Allah grants us life to witness it, I look forward to writing another tribute when you turn 70, In Sha Allah.
Ahmad Deedat is the Chairman of Nurses and Midwives Connect. He writes from Kano State and can be reached at didatbabbangida@gmail.com
