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War on Terror: The Heroic Exploits of Unsung Heroes (Part 1)
War on Terror: The Heroic Exploits of Unsung Heroes (Part 1)
By: Hamza Suleiman
It is not very often that you get to read about the extraordinary exploits of Nigerian troops at the theatres of ongoing war against Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists or in the various military operations across the country.
In fact, majority of Nigerians outside the epicenter of the crisis, are not conversant with the trajectories of that war on terror being prosecuted by the Nigerian Armed Forces across the country nor do they do have the faintest idea about the gallantry and exceptional heroic feats of some of our officers and men in the trenches.
This is partly because not many reporters or commentators are willing to devote their time, as it were, to the chronicling for posterity, the extraordinary bravery and gallantry of some of the Nigerian troops engaged in the war of attrition against the dreaded Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists. It does appear that what is fashionable for a section of the media is the spotlighting of setbacks and obstacles in the way of our troops.
The very worrisome penchant for bad reviews of military operations across the country in the media is a topic for another day as this serialized reports is meant to share the amazing stories of some courageous and patriotic military officers who have distinguished themselves in the line of duty at the North East Task Force Operation Hadin Kai where Nigerian troops are battling the Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists.
For these brave officers who are deployed far from home and from loved ones for years, the determination to put their lives on the line so that the entire nation can sleep in peace, comes so natural and without any form of compulsion. Like the late Lt Col Abu Ali (whose heroic accomplishments only came to limelight after his demise), these officers in focus all of the Special Forces Battalion are men of steel, courage, passion and exceptional bravery in battle.
Standing tall…
On that eventful day, March 14 2014, a full complement of well-armed Boko Haram terrorists launched massive attack on Giwa Barracks in Maiduguri, Borno state capital. The sprawling barracks became target of their daring attack because within it were held some of their commanders and foot soldiers arrested by the troops of the Nigerian Army. Apparently overwhelmed by the large numbers and grim determination of terrorists making the incursion, the troops on guard the barracks withdrew, and everything were in flurry as the attackers continued to pour in relentlessly, shooting at everything and anything on sight. Their sole aim was to overrun the barracks and set free their members in detention.
On learning of the intrusion of the barracks by the insurgents, a certain Lt Col Ishaya Aliyu Manga left his Sector which was far away from the scene without being prompted or compelled and immediately mobilized troops to go repel the attack. He led his troops into the fray and successfully sacked the terrorists who had almost upturned the entire Giwa barracks. More than 300 terrorists were killed in that encounter and many weapons including Anti-Aircraft (AA) guns and gun-truck vehicles were captured by the officer and his troops from the terrorists.
The swift and furious dislodgement of Boko Haram elements from the Giwa Barracks which the officer spear-headed was not the first nor the most daring of operations he had led or been involved in. As a thorough-bred infantry officer, Manga knew exactly what he and his colleagues in the theatre were up against and as such was mentally and physically prepared to undertake the journey of routing Boko Haram terrorists from any part of Nigerian sovereignty.
Though Manga was under Sector 2 on his arrival, his mode of operation transcended that sector. As a matter of fact, he made himself available and dutifully participated in all attacks on Boko Haram that required reinforcement within Maiduguri metropolis.
He was actively involved in countering book Haram attacks in Bulabulin Garnam, London Ciki, Baga road, Kasuwan Shanu, Millinaire quarters, Headquarters Sector 2, dusman, Post Office and Customs Road, Zabamari, Gongulon, Lawanti, Turshe, among others.
Sometime in January 2014 when the activities of Boko Hara terrorists become a potent threat to the 195 Battalion which was deployed at Bulabulin and Damboa, the former GOC 7 Division, Maj. Gen. Bindawa directed L.t Col. Manga to “marry up” with the Battalion for immediate clearance of the terrorists from their general area of responsibility. The next day at about 10 in the morning, the officer alongside personnel of 195 Battalion launched an operation that culminated in the successful destruction of Boko Haram terrorists in their own strongholds around Alagarno area. In that operation, more than a hundred terrorists were killed while a lot of their equipment were destroyed.
For his outstanding bravery in that attack, the GOC gave him an award. Few weeks later when Konduga which was under the protection of 202 Battalion was overran by the Boko Haram elements, Lt Col Manga was again tasked to go retake the town from the adversaries. On the 14th February, he led his men from the front and successfully dislodged the terrorists and recaptured the town. He was promptly appointed OC (Officer in Charge) of Konduga which he later handed over to 103 Battalion.
At this point, the Yola Born Infantry officer has established himself as the go-to-officer for any difficult operation that required exceptional courage and bravery. Manga was tasked to conduct search and rescue operations for the NAF Mi 35 Helicopter that crashed at Bulabulin general area during an operational flight. For two whole days, the officer and his team were combing the terrorists and IED-ladden forests until they discover the location of the crashed chopper and successfully rescued one of the pilot alive. That uncommon gallantry earned him another commendation from the then GOC 7 Div, Maj Gen Manu Yusuf Ibrahim.
Barely four days after rescuing the NAF pilot, precisely on the 26 July 2014, 251 Battalion and 254 Battalion were tasked to retake Bulabulin and Damboa which were overran by Boko Haram. The 7 Division Garrison was also tasked to provide a robust patrol to assist the units in achieving the daunting task. The lot fell on Lt Col Manga to lead the patrol team under the guidance of the Commander 7 Div Garrison, Col DR Hassan (now retired). The officer again proved himself as he led daring exploits that influenced the successful obliteration of Boko Haram terrorists and the recapture of Bulabulin and Damboa as directed.
Some weeks later, Manga carried out a robust patrol to Kawuri with the sole purpose of degrading Boko Haram who were occupying the area from where they were launching successive attacks on troops’ location at Konduga. Despite the numerical inferiority of his team compared to the adversary’s, they were able to totally decimate the Boko Haram’s stronghold, killing many of them in the process. The patrol team dutifully captured high value assets from the terrorists and brought them back to base. That singular daring operation brought glory to the Division and Nigerian Army at large.
Manga however sustained serious injuries on his hand and ears during the operation and sent to the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital for treatment. Barely three weeks after he went for treatment, he returned back to action.
Following the attack and subsequent capture of Chibok town by Boko Haram terrorists, On November 13, 2014, Lt Col Manga was tasked alongside Col M.O Edide to retake the town. In his characteristic uncommon courage and fearlessness, confronted the terrorists and totally obliterated them.
The team successfully recaptured Chibok on 15 November, killing many of the insurgents while capturing two Anti-Aircraft guns mounted on buffalo vehicles, three Hilux vehicles and over 200 moto cycles.
Again, within a span of weeks, the terrorists launched a heavy attack on Maiduguri metropolis through Damboa and Mafa axis. L.t Col. Manga was again called upon to assist in repelling the attacks from both axis. He characteristically demonstrated uncommon courage during the encounters which enabled him to gain the willing followership of troops in effectively repelling the attacks. His immense contributions influenced the eventual neutralization of many Boko Haram terrorists and capture of several high caliber weapons, vehicles, artillery guns, etc.
Assuming Command
As Commander Sector 2, Lt Col Manga demonstrated his essential leadership qualities in managing man and materials. Owing to his excellent management of his troops, his sector was at all times free and secured from Boko Haram activities.
He artfully ensured that flashpoints within his area of responsibility were kept in check to prevent any form of dissent or criminal activities from any quarter. In addition to his primary task as the Commander, the officer led various operations to route Boko Haram elements, notable of which were at Kulli, Mama, Dongo, Leje, Yale, Bula Galda, Dagumba, Mowa Kasuwa, Boboshe, Boskoro, Kokutuma, Kashimri, Gulumba Gana, Chingori, Dalori, Walasa, Chingurmi, Kwanjima Wurwaza, etc.
His team successfully destroyed Boko Haram terrorists’ camps and markets in those locations while killing scores of the fighters and capturing weapons and equipment. A number of people who were held hostage were also rescued by Manga and his team in a number of those places.
The Officer again proved himself as most outstanding officer by his daring exploits which resulted to the successful vanquishing of Boko Haram elements in Yale on the 7th of June and again on the 19th October, 2016 in which numerous terrorists were neutralized and several AK 47 rifles captured. Additionally, more than 400 Bicycles and 15 Motorcycles were destroyed by Manga’s troops.
Few days later, under the auspices of Op RESCUE FINALE, the officer gallantly led his Battalion into Sambisa forest where they successfully cleared 23 Boko Haram camps and neutralized scores of the terrorists around Sambisa Gate one and Garin Dinya where 19 terrorists were neutralized and various calibers of arms and ammunition captured.
On 2nd January 2018, Manga returned to the Sambisa forest with his unit, this time under the auspices of OP DEEP PUNCH 2. As usual he displayed exemplary leadership qualities in leading his men and instilling boldness in them in the face of danger. His style of command, courage and professional astute led to the destruction of nine major terrorists’ camps including camp Zairo Boko Haram Headquarters, forcing Abubakar Shekau to fled for his life, leaving his flag and other properties.
The unit contributions led to death of many terrorists, destruction and recovery equipment including MBT, VBL, Typhon APCs, gun trucks etc. Other items the troops destroyed were ammunition making factory, weapon factory among others. This uncommon courage displayed by the officer earned him GOC’s commendation letter for act of gallantry.
Back to Op LAFIYA DOLE
Manga commenced his second journey in Op Lafiya Dole after his unit (Chief of Army Staff Special Intervention Battalion II defunct) now 134 Special Forces Battalion was inducted into the Operation on 10 Jan 2020.
His first task was to conduct long range patrol to clear Gudumbali and environs, Jilli, Fuchimiram, Borno Yesu and environs under operation OP TIGER CLAW and OP LEOPARD TRAIL with 5 Brigade. The task was effectively carried out.
Two weeks later, Boko Haram/ISWAP fighters were sighted at Lamboa forest and Lt Col Manga was informed of the development. The senior officer quickly mobilized his team to Lamboa forest. After a fierce battle with the terrorists and due to the team’s resilience, several terrorists were neutralized. The successes recorded on that operation led to the capture of several weapons among which were two gun trucks, five Anti-Aircraft guns and eleven AK 47 rifles.
Sadly the Senior Officer was severely wounded after he was shot three times (2 gunshot wounds and RPG blast), during a hot exchange of gunfire in the evening of March 9 2020 between Boko Haram fighters and troops who were on offensive mission under the auspices of Op AYISO TAMUNOMA within the Alagarno.
He spent three months and two weeks receiving treatment in the hospital. The injuries he sustained did not in any way stop him from doing his best to ensure that the activities of Boko Haram terrorists were nipped in the bud. He immediately commenced operation after his sick leave.
A report came on the 18 of August 2020, that Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists have gathered locals and were delivering sermon to them in Magumeri. Manga quickly mobilized his team to the scene and in his characteristic brave manner, he confronted the terrorists in a fierce battle which led to death of scores of terrorists while many of them escaped.
On the 7th of September, 2020, the terrorists ambushed the officer and his team while on patrol along Gubio and Magumeri road. The team exhibited act of bravery and commitment which influenced the defeat of the terrorists and recovery of a gun truck, two Anti-Aircraft guns, three AK 47 rifles and various caliber of ammunitions.
Additionally, On 26 Oct 20, LT Col Manga and his team neutralized Boko Haram fighters along Karnowa – Magumeri road. They successfully captured an Anti-Aircraft gun, five AK 47 rifles, one Bedford vehicle among other items.
Exploits at OP TURA TAKAI BANGO
Operating under the auspices of Operation TURA TAKAI BANGO, Lt Col Manga, on the January 1, 2021, led his unit into Tinbuktu Triangle, the spiritual home of Boko Haram terrorists along with troops of 198 Special Forces Battalion and 199 Special Forces Battalion under 402 Special Forces Brigade.
Their offensive mission was hugely successful as they were able to destroy several Boko/ISWAP enclaves among which included Gorgi, Kafa, Abagajiri, Dusula, Buk, Manguzum, Gorgore forest and others. Several terrorists were neutralized in that mission while several high grade weapons were recovered or destroyed.
Similarly, 402 Special Force Brigade was tasked to retake Marte from ISWAP and clear Krenoa, Chikun Gudu and environs. Manga led the operation and as usual displayed an uncommon courage which led to the killing of 22 terrorists and retaking of Marte on the 23rd of February 2021.
The Officer was also directed to clear elements of ISWAP hibernating in Ala settlement on Mar 3, 2021. Along with his men, they neutralized four Boko Haram fighters and recovered a number of weapons.
On March 22 2021, 402 Special Force Brigade was also tasked alongside 21 Armour Brigade and 26 Task Force Brigade to conduct clearance operations in Sambisa forest. Manga’s knowledge of the ground came handy as he dutifully assisted the advancing forces in clearing Njimia, Parisu, Somalia, Kuraba, Sabil Huda, Gobara, Dure and other Boko Haram enclaves.
The successes recorded were; neutralization of terrorists capture of two AA guns, one GPMG, two 81mm mor, four AK 47 rifles and destruction of two VBIED. Other exploits with Manga’s footprints include the destruction of ISWAP fighters at Bulabulin in the general area of Damasak and the capture of a gun truck and an AA gun on 24 Apr 2021.
Manga also led his troops to clear BHTs fighters hibernating at Ngwom general area of Mafa LG on 16 June 2021. The officer and his men neutralized six BHTs, captured three AK 47 rifles and two Motorcycles. Manga was very instrumental to the surrendering of some BHTs with assorted weapons. Those eleven Boko Haram elements were among the first batch of the terrorists to surrender to the troops of the Nigerian Army.
Non-Kinetic Efforts
As a thorough-bred professional military officer with clear understanding of the dynamics of asymmetric warfare, the type he engaged in the north east, Lt Col Manga combines both kinetic and non-kinetic efforts to win his battles.
In the course of his deployment in the north east, the officer has influenced the provision of the following humanitarian assistance to communities around the theatre of operations: Medical evacuation of civilian victims of suicide bombers attacks on the locals from Konduga to UMTH Maiduguri; Clearance of 22 km trees and shrubs from Konduga – Aulari along road Maiduguri – Bama to help discourage ambushes on military personnel, Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), other security agencies and civilians plying the road; Provision of medical assistance to CJTF and the local communities within Konduga; repairs of boreholes to enable the local communities access portable water; Patching of 22 km road from Kalari – Konduga – Aulari to deter the insurgents from laying mines along the road; Provision of security to farmers and fishermen in Konduga; Teaching of IDPs by our education personnel in the IDP Camp in Konduga; Payment of N5,000 allowances each to 40 members of the CJTF to enable them work effectively and efficiently in Konduga.
Others include, Payment of N10,000 allowance each to 30 members of CJTF and N20,000 each to 5 informants/guides in Maiduguri, Magumeri and Konduga areas and the provision of food items to IDPs in some selected camp in Maiduguri metropolis.
A highly disciplined, committed and hardworking officer who consistently demonstrates uncommon courage in the face of danger, Lt Col IA Manga’s style of leading from the front has severally endeared him to his troops who are ever willing to follow him to battle.
He has participated in almost all the designated military operations in the north east including, Op Restore Order 1 (2013), Op Boyona (2013), Op Zaman Lafiya (2013-2015), Op Crack Dawn I & II (2015), Op Rescue Finale (2016-2017), Op Deep Punch II (2018), Op Lafiya Dole (2015-2018 & 2020), Op Leopard Trail (2020), Op Tigar Claw (2020), Op Ayiso Tamunoma (2020), Op Fire ball (Oct 2020), JTF Op Hadin Kai North East (2021 to date).
Born in Yola, Adamawa State, Manga who holds two Masters degrees (in Finance and in Defence & Strategic Studies), joined the Nigerian Army in February 2003 as a member of SSC 33, commissioned in August 2003 and was first posted to 3 Battalion Nigerian Army, Takum, to commence his military career.
A proud recipient of the United States –Africa Command Award for Excellence, Force Service Star (FSS) award and Command Medal (CM), Lt Col Manga always approach his duties with zeal, diligence, dedication and high sense of professionalism to the admiration of his peers and superiors. Manga’s story is that of a Nigerian patriot who passionate in defending the motherland from vicious adversaries even at the risk of his own life.
Though unsung in the pages of Nigerian newspapers or television screens, Manga’s numerous successful operations which had resulted to the death of indeterminate number of terrorists and destruction of their sanctuaries and strongholds can never be downplayed or diminished. In view of the indelible achievements and service to humanity, the senior officer is highly recommended for any deserving Awards in recognition of his act of patriotism and professionalism.
Watch out for Part 2 of this special report on gallant Nigerian soldiers doing exploits in the war against terror.
Senator Musa’s Legacy of Intellect, Compassion and Delivery
By Suleiman Adamu
In Nigeria’s dynamic democratic landscape, where leadership often teeters between self-interest and public service, few figures emerge as true exemplars of covenantal representation. Senator Mohammed Sani Musa, CON, affectionately known as “Musa 313,” stands as a beacon of intellectual rigour, empathy, and impactful delivery. Representing Niger East Senatorial District, he has woven a legacy of legislative excellence and grassroots development that resonates far beyond the confines of his constituency, touching the heart of Nigeria’s democratic aspirations.
Great leaders are not born of chance; they are shaped by discipline, preparation, and an unrelenting commitment to progress. Senator Musa embodies this truth. A proud son of Niger State, he embarked on an academic journey that laid the foundation for his remarkable career. At Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, he earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, specialising in Banking and Finance, in 1990. This degree was not merely a credential but a springboard for his intellectual evolution.
Driven by a thirst for knowledge, he pursued further studies at global institutions, securing a Postgraduate Diploma in Public Policy and Management from the University of London and a Postgraduate Certificate in International Management from the University of Liverpool. These academic milestones equipped him with a nuanced understanding of governance, economics, and institutional reform, moulding him into a technocrat with a worldview enriched by comparative models of development.
Long before he stepped into the political arena, Musa was already a thinker whose ideas were informed by global perspectives and a deep appreciation for systemic change. Senator Musa is no ordinary parliamentarian. His presence reverberates from the hallowed chambers of the National Assembly in Abuja to the dusty roads of rural Niger East. He is a statesman whose intellectual sophistication is matched by his accessibility and empathy, a rare blend that allows him to connect with both policymakers and ordinary citizens.
His nickname, “Musa 313” is a symbol of trust and familiarity, a proof of the bond he has forged with his people. Unlike many legislators whose names fade beyond roll calls, Musa has etched his mark on the annals of parliamentary relevance since his election in 2019. As Chairman of the Senate Finance Committee, he shoulders one of the most critical roles in Nigeria’s legislative framework. His committee oversees fiscal discipline, appropriation, and national planning—responsibilities that demand precision, foresight, and patriotism.
Under his leadership, oversight reports and finance bills are scrutinised with meticulous care, earning him the confidence of Nigerians who see in him a guardian of the nation’s economic integrity. Musa’s legislative contributions are profound and far-reaching. His sponsorship of transformative bills reflects a mind attuned to both the immediate needs of his constituents and the structural challenges facing Nigeria.
Among his notable legislative efforts is the Bill to Regulate and Formalise Employment of Domestic Workers, Interns, and Other Informal Sector Employees (SB 629, 2025), currently in its second reading. Another landmark proposal is the National Rural Employment Guarantee Bill of 2021, a bold initiative to combat rural unemployment and foster economic inclusion in Nigeria’s hinterlands. The Critical Infrastructure Protection Bill of 2021 addresses the pressing need to safeguard Nigeria’s assets against sabotage and insecurity, a critical issue in a nation grappling with infrastructural challenges.
Musa’s vision for education is evident in the National University of Health and Medical Sciences, Suleja Bill, which aims to bolster medical training and healthcare delivery. His Loan Recovery Regulation Bill of 2020 seeks to sanitise the banking sector, while the Constitutional Court of Nigeria Bill of 2020 underscores his commitment to constitutionalism. The Constituency Delimitation Centre Bill of 2020 further demonstrates his dedication to strengthening democratic representation.
Each of these bills reveals a legislator who thinks locally but legislates nationally, addressing the unique needs of Niger East while tackling Nigeria’s broader developmental imperatives. Yet, for Senator Musa, legislation is not an end in itself but a means to transform lives. He understands that parliamentary privilege must translate into tangible progress for his constituents. In Niger East, his interventions are a testament to this philosophy, touching every facet of human development.
In education, Musa recognises that knowledge is the ladder by which societies ascend. He has renovated classrooms and constructed a principal’s office at Government Technical College, Minna, ensuring that students learn in dignified environments. His establishment of an ICT Centre in Ija Gwari, Tafa LGA, is a forward-thinking investment in the digital economy, empowering rural youths to compete in a technology-driven world. His scholarship programs, spanning primary, secondary, and tertiary levels, have opened doors for countless students, with international undergraduate opportunities in China and India offering a global stage for Niger East’s brightest minds. These initiatives are not mere gestures but structural investments in the future, ensuring that the next generation is equipped to lead.
In healthcare, Musa’s mantra of “Health is Wealth” guides his efforts to improve lives. Across the nine local government areas of Niger East, he has facilitated the installation of solar power and generators in primary healthcare centers, ensuring that immunisation, maternal care, and rural treatments are not hampered by power outages. His commitment to maintenance ensures these facilities remain functional, bringing dignity and reliability to healthcare delivery.
In agriculture, the lifeline of Niger East, Musa’s benevolence shines through. He has distributed 10,000 bags of grain to alleviate hunger and provided farm implements and fertilisers to rural farmers, boosting productivity and food security. His tailoring empowerment scheme for 100 youths is a deliberate effort to catalyse cottage industries, fostering economic self-reliance and preserving the region’s agrarian heritage.
Musa’s infrastructure projects further illustrate his responsiveness to his people’s needs. In Ginyin Village, Shiroro LGA, he constructed a solar borehole, delivering clean, safe water to residents who once struggled for this basic necessity. A 1km road in Kuta, Shiroro LGA, has improved connectivity, while electrification projects, including 500KVA transformers in Iwa Gurara and other communities, have brought light to darkened villages.
The renovation of Sukeja Town Hall has provided a communal space for gatherings, reinforcing social cohesion. Each project—water for the thirsty, light for the darkened, roads for the isolated—reflects Musa’s ability to listen and act, addressing the immediate needs of his people while laying the foundation for long-term progress. What sets Senator Musa apart is his embodiment of the qualities that define an uncommon parliamentarian: intellectual grounding, legislative productivity, constituency visibility, empathy, and national relevance.
He is not a populist chasing fleeting applause but a leader who feels the pulse of his people and synchronises it with national priorities. While others may settle for episodic empowerment, Musa builds a systematic architecture of development, weaving together education, healthcare, agriculture, and infrastructure into a cohesive vision for Niger East.
In just two years in the 10th Senate, he has redefined parliamentary responsibility, proving that senators need not be absentee representatives or mere voices in the capital. His work is a bridge between law-making and life-building, a testament to his refusal to divorce policy from people.
Musa’s impact extends beyond Niger East. His legislative efforts address national challenges, from unemployment to infrastructure security, positioning him as a statesman of national consequence. His ability to balance local needs with Nigeria’s broader aspirations makes him a model for aspiring leaders. Niger East is fortunate to have him; Niger State takes pride in his achievements, and Nigeria is enriched by his service.
To honour Senator Musa 313 is to recognise a rare fusion of intellect, compassion, and delivery—a leader who has rewritten the narrative of representation. His contributions are luminous chapters in Nigeria’s democratic journey, illuminating the path for others to follow.
*Adamu PhD is a researcher writing from UniAbuja.
Power is a Loan, Not a Possession: The Sacred Duty of Planting People.
By George Omagbemi Sylvester for SaharaWeeklyNG.com
Power is not an inheritance. It is not a birthright. It is not even a possession. Power, in its truest form, is a loan temporary, conditional, and transient. It is entrusted to individuals by people, institutions or circumstances, but it always comes with an expiry date. The tragedy of our world, however, is that too many leaders behave as though power is eternal. They clutch onto it, abuse it, weaponize it and in the end, leave nothing behind but ruins, regret and ridicule.
The French philosopher Voltaire once remarked: “With great power comes great responsibility.” But in our era, we must go further: with great power comes the obligation to plant people. To plant people is to empower them, mentor them, uplift them and prepare them for a time when you are no longer in the spotlight. For one day, inevitably, the motorcades will vanish, the applause will fade and the titles will turn into footnotes. What will remain is the impact you left on human lives.
The Fragility of Power: Why No One Holds It Forever.
History, politics and life itself have shown that power is fleeting. Even the most feared emperors and the most influential presidents eventually yield to time. The Roman Empire, once stretching across continents, collapsed. The mighty Pharaohs of Egypt, who believed themselves divine, are remembered today only as names etched on tombs. Closer to home, African military dictators who once ruled with iron fists now live in obscurity, some begging for relevance in old age.
Former U.S. President Barack Obama put it sharply: “The arc of history is long, but it bends toward justice.” What he meant is that no matter how powerful you think you are, time has a way of humbling everyone. Leaders who imagine themselves irreplaceable soon discover the bitter truth: power is seasonal and every season changes.
This is why the greatest leaders are those who use their moment not to build monuments to themselves but to build people. Because monuments crack, but people remember.
Leadership Beyond Tenure: Planting People as Legacy.
Leadership, in its essence, is not measured by the number of years spent in office but by the number of lives transformed in that period. Nelson Mandela, who ruled South Africa for just one term, remains immortal in global memory not because he clung to office but because he planted people and values. He mentored a new generation of South African leaders, built institutions and showed the world that humility is the highest form of power.
John C. Maxwell, the world-renowned leadership expert, insists: “The greatest legacy a leader can leave is having developed other leaders.” The logic is simple; TITLES DIE, but PEOPLE LIVE ON. The greatest misuse of power, therefore, is to leave people the same (or worse) than you met them.
The Tragedy of Hoarded Power.
When power is hoarded instead of shared, the result is decay. Leaders who suppress others to protect their dominance always end up isolated. They mistake fear for loyalty, but once they step down, the very people who applauded them disappear. History is full of such examples.
Idi Amin of Uganda, Mobutu Sese Seko of Zaire and Sani Abacha of Nigeria all wielded absolute power in their days. But what became of them? Their regimes collapsed in disgrace. They planted no people, built no successors and left their nations bleeding. Today, they are remembered not for greatness but for tyranny.
Contrast this with leaders like Lee Kuan Yew of Singapore, who invested heavily in education, youth empowerment and national capacity-building. Though gone, he planted a nation of thinkers and innovators. Singapore, once a poor fishing island, is now a first-world economy, proof that planting people outlives personal reign.
Why Planting People Matters in All Spheres of Life.
This principle is not limited to politics. In business, religion and community leadership, those who succeed in developing people extend their influence far beyond their lifetimes. Steve Jobs, the co-founder of Apple, understood this. Though a perfectionist, he invested in building a strong leadership culture at Apple. That is why, years after his death, Apple continues to thrive.
In religion, Jesus Christ is perhaps the greatest example of planting people. He never built a palace or wrote a book. Instead, He invested in twelve disciples, ordinary men who later carried His message to the ends of the earth. Over two thousand years later, His influence remains unmatched, because He planted people, not monuments.
The Reality Check: What Happens When Power Ends.
We must never forget: the applause will fade. The titles will become past tense. The security convoys will vanish. The table will empty. At that point, what will remain is not the office you once occupied but the lives you touched.
The 20th-century historian Lord Acton’s timeless warning remains true: “Power tends to corrupt and absolute power corrupts absolutely.” Yet, there is a caveat often ignored; power can also elevate, if used rightly. It can inspire, empower and transform. The leader who recognizes this truth plants seeds in people while their influence lasts, because they know they will not hold it forever.
The Call to Leaders: Plant People While You Can.
To every leader (political, corporate, spiritual or community-based) the call is urgent: plant people while your voice still carries weight. Mentor the youth, empower the voiceless and create platforms for others to rise. While your hand still holds the pen, sign opportunities into others’ lives. Because one day, the pen will no longer be yours to hold.
The Nigerian novelist Chinua Achebe once wrote: “One of the truest tests of integrity is its blunt refusal to be compromised.” The integrity of leadership is tested not by the ability to acquire power, but by the willingness to share it, to empower others and to leave behind a generation better prepared than the one before.
A Personal Reflection.
Every society that has risen to greatness has done so on the back of leaders who planted people. Japan invested in education after World War II and became a global economic giant. Rwanda, under Paul Kagame, rose from genocide by investing in its people, particularly women and the youth. The evidence is overwhelming: leaders who plant people never die; their names are written in the hearts of men.
Conversely, leaders who hoard power, suppress others and treat their positions as private empires often face tragic endings. They die lonely, forgotten or mocked, not because they didn’t once have power, but because they failed to use it meaningfully.
Final Word: Power as a Loan, Legacy as an Obligation.
At the end of the day, the truth remains eternal: power is a loan, not a possession. It is lent for a while and must be returned. But while it is in your hands, you have the sacred duty to plant people.
The applause will fade. The convoys will vanish. The spotlight will dim, but the people you lifted will carry your name across generations. They will become your greatest reference long after the titles are gone.
So, use power wisely. Not to silence, not to oppress, not to immortalize yourself, but to plant others. Because when all is said and done, people are the only legacy that never dies.
Mayor of Brampton Honours IBD Foundation
The City of Brampton has recognised Alhaji Ibrahim Dende Egungbohun for his remarkable contributions to a transformative initiative designed to empower women through essential skill-building for independence and self-reliance. This formal acknowledgment took place on August 15, 2025, in Mayor Patrick Brown’s office during a visit from the Africa Made Economic Growth Initiative (AMEGI) team. Represented by his wife, Mrs. Omolara Egungbohun, Alhaji Dende received the certification amidst an atmosphere of gratitude and celebration. Mayor Brown presented the certificate personally and extended his commendations to the IBD Foundation for their relentless pursuit of women’s empowerment, development, and their philanthropic efforts.
The Certificate of Recognition underscored Egungbohun’s unwavering dedication and tireless efforts to create diverse opportunities for women to enhance their skills, develop their potential, and ultimately prosper in their personal and professional lives. As a philanthropist, esteemed businessman, and influential social figure, his impact in Nigeria and beyond is both profound and far-reaching.
Egungbohun’s generosity and steadfast commitment have significantly bolstered the confidence of program participants, facilitating their ability to envision and construct brighter futures while strengthening community ties. In his acknowledgment, Mayor Brown stated, “Your dedication uplifts those working to inspire others,” highlighting the deep and lasting influence of Egungbohun’s work in empowering women.
This initiative is not just a standalone effort; it harmonizes perfectly with Brampton’s broader mission to advocate for and uplift marginalized groups within the community. Egungbohun’s contributions serve as a vital catalyst for transformative change, offering practical skills that enhance employability while reshaping the economic and social framework for women. Through an assortment of workshops, mentorship programs, and robust support networks, he has fostered an encouraging environment where women can fully explore and realize their potential.
As Brampton steadfastly commits itself to promoting inclusivity and equity, leaders like Egungbohun exemplify how collaboration, vision, and genuine enthusiastic engagement can effectively turn hopes and aspirations into tangible realities. The public acknowledgment from the city not only honors individual efforts but also sends a resounding message, inspiring other community leaders and stakeholders to step up and invest in grassroots empowerment initiatives that uplift and serve those in need. This recognition is a clarion call for collective action toward a more equitable and inclusive society.
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