By Uche Amunike
The death has been announced of former Managing Director of the Nigerian Printing and Minting Company (NPMC) and Chairman, Jigawa State Elders Forum, Suleiman Baffa, who died, in the early hours of Tuesday, according to a statement released by media aide to the Jigawa State governor, Hamisu Gumel.
According to the statement, Governor Umar Namadi expressed his sadness at the passing of the elder statesman whom he described as a great leader. Recall that until his death, Suleiman Baffa was the Chairman of the Jigawa State Elders Forum.
Speaking, through the statement, Governor Namadi avowed thus: ‘It is with profound sadness and a heavy heart that Governor Mallam Umar Namadi announces the passing of a great leader and pillar of the Jigawa community, Alhaji Sulaiman Baffa, Chairman of the Jigawa Elders Forum.’
‘Alhaji Sulaiman Baffa departed from this world in the early hours of today (Tuesday) leaving a void that will be hard to fill’, he stated.
The 85 year Suleiman Baffa was a banker and administrator who rose to the position of Managing Director of two old-generation banks, aside being the Managing Director of the Nigerian Printing and Minting Company, before his active retirement from service in 1999.
The statement further read: ‘The late Alhaji Sulaiman Baffa was not just a prominent figure in Jigawa State but also a highly respected elder statesman and a dedicated servant of the people. His life was a testament to his unwavering commitment to the betterment of our dear state and its people. He dedicated himself to the pursuit of peace, progress, and prosperity for Jigawa State throughout his long and illustrious career.’
‘As Chairman of the Jigawa Elders Forum, Alhaji Sulaiman Baffa played a pivotal role in fostering unity, understanding, and collaboration among various communities and stakeholders in our state. His wisdom, guidance, and tireless efforts were instrumental in resolving conflicts and addressing the concerns of our people. He was a true bridge-builder and a source of inspiration to many.’
Hamisu Gumel continued: ‘Governor Mallam Umar Namadi extends his heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and associates of Alhaji Sulaiman Baffa during this difficult time. The Governor also calls on the people of Jigawa State to join him in mourning the loss of this remarkable leader and in celebrating the legacy of service and dedication that Alhaji Sulaiman Baffa leaves behind.’
‘The Governor, on behalf of the government and people of Jigawa State, expresses gratitude for the invaluable contributions of Alhaji Sulaiman Baffa to our state’s growth and development. His memory will forever be cherished, and his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.’
He also prayed for the soul of the late elder statesman and prayed that he finds eternal peace, while encouraging his family to find strength and solace during this trying time of their lives.
Suleiman’s death was announced a day after the death of another elder statesman from Borno State, Umaru Shehu, died. Shehu was a renowned academic and professor of Medicine. He was also one of the founding fathers of the Bornu Elders Forum.
