By Abdulrasaq Kamaldeen
In recognition of his relentless dedication and service, Mallam Nasiru Muhammad, a hostel electrician at Usmanu Danfodiyo University Sokoto, received a motorcycle from the Students Union Caretaker Committee.
The award, presented on July 3, 2024, acknowledges Nasiru’s exceptional commitment to maintaining electrical systems in the student hostels, significantly enhancing the welfare and well-being of the students.
The presentation was led by Comrade Abdullahi Sanusi, Chairman of the Students Union Caretaker Committee, and attended by the Dean of Student Affairs, Professor Umar Aliyu, and his deputy, Dr. Tukur M. Mukhtar. Along with the motorcycle, the Dean and his Deputy contributed ₦10,000 for fuel to further support Nasiru’s efforts. “Indeed, your efforts are worthy of emulation,” the Dean remarked during the ceremony.
Nasiru’s journey to receiving this recognition has been marked by perseverance and hard work. Living in Gidan Ruwa, also known as Gidan Safey, a village within the university premises, he has been a steadfast presence at the institution since 2010. Despite the challenges, Nasiru has consistently gone above and beyond his official duties to ensure the electrical systems in the hostels are functioning properly.
“I used to trek from my village to the school’s various hostels from Monday to Sunday, and after the long trek, I did feel pain in my heels,” Nasiru recounted. “Even after closing hours, I would come to the hostel to fix things due to calls from students about electrical issues.”
Nasiru’s dedication has earned him widespread admiration from both students and staff. Mustapha Aliyu, a 400-level Biological Science student, shared his experience: “Nasiru is a hardworking electrician who has dedicated himself to his service. I vividly remember an incident when our room’s electricity developed issues, and despite multiple reports to the school maintenance, nothing was done. A friend directed me to Mallam Nasiru, and he restored our light the same day I complained to him.”
Similarly, Owoicho Helen, a 400-level Zoology student and current hall governor of Kano hostel block A, praised Nasiru’s integrity and dedication. “Whenever there are light issues, I quickly report them to their office, and he always comes to fix them. There is no day you will call him to fix any electrical issues that he won’t come. He is so dedicated to his work; I can attest to that,” she said.
Fatima Abdulaziz Abdullahi, a Forestry graduate and former 2022/2023 SU CTC Vice-Chairperson, described the award as well-deserved. “Mallam Nasiru is the most hardworking maintenance worker I know in Udus,” she noted.
Comrade Abdullahi Sanusi explained the rationale behind the award: “The Students’ Union Caretaker Committee, in its efforts to promote the social welfare of the students and protect their interests, decided to give out one Daylong dark-blue motorcycle to Mallam Nasiru in recognition of his hard work, dedication, and commitment to the welfare and well-being of the students living in the hostel.”
“His dedication and quick response to the students’ calls made a significant impact on their well-being. He sacrifices his time and energy in maintaining and regulating electricity in the hostel,” Comrade Sanusi added.
