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THE MAKING OF A GREAT LEADER : DR HAMZA AL-MUSTAPHA
In antiquity and even in contemporary world, excellence as a distinctive virtue is a rare quality, naturally exclusive to the truism that some are born great, some achieve greatness while some have greatness as natural phenomenon that plays in the affairs of men.
In some African socio-economic cum political system, excellence has been defined and laundered as a mere statement but Major Hamza Al-Mustapha has excelled exceptionally in different leadership capacity that demand excellence.
Al-Mustapha was born in Nguru on July 27 1960. Nguru was part of the old Borno State but in present Yobe State. Major
Hamza was brought up by his parent and maternal Grand Mother
under an atmosphere of love but in strict adherence to Islamic
parenting guidelines.
EARLY EDUCATION:
He attended Hausari Primary School, Nguru between 1967 to 1974 for
his foundation education. Although relatively very young in comparison
with his peers, he was appointed the Class Monitor and a Prefect in his
final year. Young Hamza also attended Government Secondary
School, Nguru between 1974 to 1979, where he was appointed House
Captain and Sports Prefect during his final year.
NIGERIAN DEFENCE ACADEMY:
Major Al-Mustapha was admitted to the prestigious Nigerian Defence
Academy (NDA) as a member of 28 (twenty-eight) Regular Combatant
Course, between 1980 to 1983. He was Sports Captain in his final year
and was given a Cadet appointment (Junior Under Officer). Regarded
as organised and an excellent Cadet, Hamza as he is fondly called,
held many cadet A
appointments while in NDA.
What is clear from his education right from the Primary School through
his graduation at the NDA was his demonstration of unusual
competence, bravery, briliance, capacity, resilience and leadership.
POST GRADUATE COURSES
1. Esep le Berger, University of Cotonou
Benin Republic
Doctrine Degree (Hons)
2. LBBS
LONDON BRIDGE BUSINESS SCHOOL
Post Graduate Certificate in Management (Pg CMgt)
An Executive Education Programme of the London Bridge
2 1
3. LONDON BRIDGE BUSINESS SCHOOL
LBBS
Certificate
The Honorary Doctorate Degree in Public Administration (DPA).
CAREER BETWEEN 1983 AND 1998:
Major Al-Mustapha had a meritorious and a brilliant career in the
Nigerian Army. He was acknowledged by his superiors and
contemporaries as highly intelligent and very brave, an important
quality to a successful military career anywhere in the world. It is
therefore no wonder that even the Late Libyan President, Muammar
Gaddafi among other world leaders, not only acknowledged his
bravery and profcssional briliance, but offered to have him as Chief
Sccurity Officer if Nigeria would oblige. He was highly regarded in
international military circles.
His Military career, which spanned three (3) decades include the
following:
PLACES AND PERIODS SERVED IN THE NIGERIAN ARMY:
1983-1984: Headquarters: Military Intelligence as:
i. Ag. Security Officer Grade I (Intelligence
Operations/Security)
ii. Sports Officer
iii. Security liaison duty
1984 – 1985: Dodan Barracks: Presidency
i. Intelligence Operations/ Security
ii. Foreign Forces Withdrawal from Lake Chad
(International Operation)
iii. Ministry of Internal Affairs (served with Gen. M.
Magoro, who was the Minister then).
1985-1987: Army Headquarters; Office of the Chief of Army Staff
(COAS) as:
i. Officer-in-Charge Intelligence Detachment
ii. Security Officer to COAS
1987-1989: Bakassi (Operations)
i. Headquarters: 13 Brigade, Calabar, Cross River State
ii. Member, States Security Council (Akwa lbom and
Cross RIver States)
1989-1990: Headquarters 82 Division, Enugu (Officer-in- Charge,
Intelligence Operations)
1990
Headquarters Security Group (Apapa, Lagos)
1990-1991
CDS/ CJDS Office: (i) officer-in-Charge Intelligence
Detachment
(ii) Security Officer to CDS/CJDS
1992-1993: Ministry of Defence (MOD) -Sune 4 abeue
1994-1998: Presidency: Chief Security Officer (CSO)
1998
Headquarters 82 Division, Enugu
Second-in-command (2ic) Intelligence
1993 – 1998 PRESIDENCY: CHIEF SECURITY OFFICER TO THE HEAD OF STATE
– Served the Presidency for five (5) years with unblemished records.
SOME OF HIS CONTRIBUTIONS INCLUDES:
1. Initiated the establishment of the Petroleum Trust Fund (PTF) in
1994 which led to an unprecedented nationwide
infrastructural development. PTF was also introduced into the
Armed Forces and the Police. The idea was conceived as far
back as 1987 in South Korea.
2. Contributed to the adoption of the Six (6) Geo-Political Zones
arrangements as a National Policy.
3. Participated in the creation of Gombe, Bayelsa, Ekiti, Ebonyi,
Zamfara and Nasarawa States and the accompanying Local
Governments in 1996 as part of the Political Reform of the
Abacha-led Government.
4. Contributed in Fostering Idea – Based Political Parties during
the Abacha Reforms through the establishment of The
Grassroots Democratic Movement (GDM).
5. Active participation in International Operations in Liberia,
Sierra Leone, Gambia.
HONOURS & AWARDS:
Major Hamza Al-Mustapha is a recipient of Domestic and International
Awards too numerous to mention and was awarded:
Ambassador of Peace to West Africa by the United Nations (UN).
Man of the year award by privilege Magazine and online news
11th Nigerian Leadership Award 2020;
ICON of Peace and Nation Building by Ahmadu Bello University
Zaria Faculty of Postgraduate Representative Council (ABUPRC).
ACHIEVEMENTS AS CHIEF SECURITY OFFICER (CSO) TO GENERAL SANI
ABACHA:
His tour of duties had given him deep insights into the complex nature of
Nigeria’s diverse ethnic, religious and political architecture had
enabled him to develop relationships in every part of the country.
He firstly contributed in stabilising the Abacha Regime. Major Hamza,
given his professional intelligence training at some of the best
Intelligence Schools in the World, was familiar with international best
practices on the role of the CSO. A combination of his unblemished
national tour of duty and service, coupled with his international
exposure and personal efforts assisted him in clearly defining his role.
But he exercised the authority vested on him with the fear of the
Almighty God (Allah) and this he used for the advancement of his Country.
It is perhaps important to note that Major Hamza enjoyed the full
confidence of General Sani Abacha, then Head of State who was
highly regarded as a thorough bred and highly professional General.
Major Hamza was obviously appointed among many arising from his
track records of loyalty, competence and professionalism.
Major Hamza Al-Mustapha put all his energy into the assignment. He
used all avenues available to him to carry out his assignments
specifically to support his Principal General Sani Abacha for the greater
benefit of Nigerians. Indeed, he influenced the policy process towards
the development of the Country. For example, Major Hamza initiated
the establishment of the Petroleum Trust Fund (PTF) which has been
described as the biggest national infrastructural development efforts in
the Country. An agent of unity, Major Al-Mustapha ensured fairness,
equity and justice in the national infrastructural development policy
across the country.
Indeed, there has not been any similar initiative after that. Similarly that,
the policy was introduced into the Armed Forces and the Police, was
due to his influence. The result of these efforts can be described as
revolutionary as Military and Police Barracks witnessed unprecedented development and improvement in infrastructure, logistics, and health.
He participated directly and actively in the creation of Gombe,
Bayelsa, Ekiti, Ebonyi, Zamfara and Nasarawa States as part of the
Abacha Government’s response to agitation for the creation of new
States, the adoption of the Six Geo-Political Zones and the political
retorms embarked upon by the Regime. This was accompanied by the
creation of additional Local Govermments Areas (LGAs) nationwide which Hamza
also actively contributed to.
Very striking to any observer of Nigerian politics is the creation of the
Grassroots Democratic Movement (GDM) to empower the poor and to
provide a platform for the youth to participate in the political reforms
process as well as enhancing the development of the country. The
idea of GDM was revolutionary, and people centred, and an initiative
of Major Hamza. In fact, ) as a passion, Major Hamza used every
opportunity to promote the cause of the Nigerian Youth, strengthen
youth groups, while encouraging them to harmonise efforts to evolve
into formidable organisations that can effectively represent their
collective interest. The result of these visionary steps could be felt in our
polity today.
He registered and nurtured numerous Youth Associations in Nigeria from
1984 to date, he initiated 2 million Man match in March 1998. He is a
Grand Patron and a Patron to many Youth Associations.
COURSES ATTENDED:
Major Hamza Al-Mustapha has attended many professional courses
within and outside Nigeria from 1983 – 1998.
REGIONAL SECURITY:
Major Al Mustapha played very strategic role in bringing peace and
stability to many of the troubled West African Countries from Liberia,
Siera Leone to Chad through effective logistic coordination,
intelligence and political support.
Its evident that Dr Al-Mustapha is well prepared, experienced and equipped in all ramifications to lead a new and progressive Nigeria with brighter future for our youths,our women and the next generation is possible with your efforts, support and votes. A new Nigeria without room for embezzlement,deceit, corruption, kidnapping, terrorism, nepotism, and political recklessness, etc
DR HAMZA ALMUSTAPHA is the answer to the aforementioned.
Join the struggle today for the reform, realisation, mobilization and actualization of Major Al-Mustapha as Nigeria’s next President for a restructured, detribalized peaceful, progressive NIGERIA of our dreams.
Trust
Believe
Support and
Think Dr Hamza Almustapha in 2023.
#HART
#AlMustapha
#EmpoweringNewNigeria
Olowu Celebrates Former Military President, Ibrahim Babangida, At 84
Olowu of Kuta, HRM Oba Dr Hammed Oyelude Makama, CON, Tegbosun III, has congratulated former military president, Gen Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, rtd, who is 84 today.
Olowu, in a statement he signed, eulogised the former military ruler for his modest achievements while he was in power.
According to Olowu, ” IBB is an enigma. He has carved a niche for himself as a former military president. His tenure witnessed the completion of many monumental legacy projects that are still visible today. His Hill Top Mansion in Minna has become a Mecca of sorts for those who aspired to lead Nigeria.”
Olowu, who described Gen Babangida as being grossly misunderstood, said history would be kind to him.
He said, “The launch of Gen Babangida’s Autobiography: ‘A Journey In Service’, and the testimonies from the likes of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, Tony Elumelu, Jim Ovia, Abdusalam Rabiu, Oil Magnate, Arthur Eze, and many others, testified to his goodwill despite leaving public office three decades ago.
” On behalf of myself, my Oloris and Olowu-In-Council.
All members of the defunct IBB Vision 2003 and Vision 2007, I wish President Ibrahim Babangida, rtd, a happy birthday. I also wish him all the best as he aged gracefully,” Olowu added.
Born on August 17, 1941, Gen Ibrahim Babangida, rtd, ruled Nigeria from 1985 to 1993.
His presidency was marked by significant political and economic reforms.
A new dawn breaks over Agunjin — a moment etched in gold in the annals of history — as the crown of the Ariwajoye Adekeye Royal Dynasty returns to its rightful home. With this homecoming, the living legacy of Agunjin’s royal heritage is renewed, strengthened, and destined to shine for generations to come.
The proud sons and daughters of Agunjin welcome His Royal Highness, Oba Isiaka Babatunde Malik Adekeye, Ariwajoye III of Agunjin Land, with joy, reverence, and boundless hope for the future.
A distinguished Nigerian based in New York, Oba Adekeye is a dynamic and accomplished professional whose illustrious career spans cinematography, international trade, and hospitality. Born into the revered Ariwajoye Adekeye Royal Family of Agunjin, in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, His Royal Highness now carries forward an ancestral legacy steeped in honor, dignity, and purpose.
The new Oba Adekeye is the proud nephew of the late Oba Jimoh Ajide Adekeye and the grandson of Oba Alade Adekeye — custodians of Agunjin’s noble traditions whose names remain deeply woven into the history of the land.
As the Yoruba say,
“Adé kì í wọ́ lórí aláìní orí.” — The crown does not rest on a head without destiny.”
His Royal Highness wears the crown not as a mere ornament, but as a solemn trust from his ancestors to his people.
The Adekeye Royal Family extends profound gratitude to: His Excellency, H.E.AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, CON, Chaiman GFON, Sadauna Ngeri of Ilorin, Executive Governor of Kwara State; The Chairman, Kwara State Council of Chiefs, Alhaji (Dr.) Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, Emir of Ilorin; The Chairman, Igbomina Traditional Rulers Forum, Oba (Barr.) Alh. Ismail Bolaji Yahaya Atoloye Alebiosu, Olupo of Ajase Ipo; The Chairman, Ifelodun Traditional Council, HRM Oba (Dr.) Alhaji Ahmed Awuni Babalola Arepo III, Elese of Igbaja; The Ifelodun Traditional Council Members and the Kwara State Traditional Council.
Our heartfelt appreciation also goes to the Hon. Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Community Development, Hon. Abdullahi Bata, and to the Executive Chairman, Ifelodun LGA, Hon. Femi Yusuf, for their steadfast commitment to upholding historical truths and safeguarding the cherished traditions of Agunjin.
As the newly crowned Ariwajoye III, Oba Adekeye brings decades of professionalism, global exposure, and deep cultural pride to his reign. His vision is noble and unwavering — to champion sustainable development across the Agunjin district, preserve the rich traditions of the land, and unite his people both at home and in the diaspora under one banner of progress, peace, and pride.
In the words of an old royal proverb, “When the king builds bridges, the people will cross to a better tomorrow.” Ariwajoye III now stands as that bridge — connecting the heritage of the past with the promise of the future.
Long live Ariwajoye III. Long live the Ariwajoye Adekeye Royal Family. Long live Agunjin Land.
Prince Oluwatoyin Adekeye For the Family
Primate ELIJAH AYODELE: The Seer, And the Country That Listens
By Femi Oyewale
Ejigbo, Lagos — When Primate Babatunde Elijah Ayodele steps onto the pulpit of INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church each week, he does more than preach: he convenes a national conversation. For decades, the clergy has issued blunt, often headline-grabbing prophecies about presidents, markets, and disasters — pronouncements that are dutifully copied, debated, and digested across Nigerian newsrooms, social media, and political corridors.
Primate Ayodele is best known for two things: the regular release of New Year’s and seasonal “warnings to the nation,” and a large, loyal following that amplifies those warnings into national discourse. He publishes annual prophecy booklets, holds prayer mountain conventions where journalists are invited, and maintains active social media channels that spread his messages quickly beyond his church gates. In July 2025, he launched a compendium of his prophecies titled “Warnings to the Nations,” an event covered by national outlets, which Ayodele used to restate concerns about security, governance, and international affairs.
Ayodele’s prophecies have touched on lightning-rod topics: election outcomes, the health or fate of public figures, infrastructure failures, and international crises. Nigerian and regional press have repeatedly published lists of his “fulfilled” predictions — from political upsets to tragic accidents — and his followers point to these as proof of his accuracy. Media roundups in recent years credited him with dozens of prophecies he argued had been realised in 2023 and 2024, and his annual prophetic rollouts continue to attract wide attention.
Impact beyond prediction: politics, policy, and public mood
The practical effect of Ayodele’s ministry is not limited to whether a prophecy comes to pass. In Nigeria’s politicised and religiously engaged public sphere, a prominent seer can:
• Move conversations in electoral seasons; politicians, commentators, and voters listen when he names likely winners or warns about risks to candidates, and his claims sometimes become part of campaign narratives.
• Shape popular expectations — warnings about economic hardship, insecurity, ty or public health influence how congregations and communities prepare and react.
• Exert soft pressure on leaders — high-profile admonitions directed at governors or ministers often prompt responses from the accused or their allies, creating a feedback loop between pulpit pronouncements and political actors.
Philanthropy and institution building
Ayodele’s public profile extends into philanthropy and church development. He runs INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church from Oke-Afa, Lagos, and his ministry periodically organises humanitarian outreach, scholarships, and hospital visits — activities he frames as evidence that prophetic ministry must be accompanied by concrete acts of charity. Church events such as extended “17-day appreciation” outreaches and scholarship programmes have been widely reported and help cement his appeal among congregants who value spiritual counsel paired with material support.
What makes him unique
Several features set Ayodele apart from other public religious figures in Nigeria:
1. Productivity and documentation. He releases extensive, numbered lists of prophecies and compiles them into booklets — a tactic that makes his predictions easy to track (and for supporters to tally as “fulfilled”).
2. A blend of national and international focus. His pronouncements frequently move beyond parochial concerns to name international actors and events, which broadens his media footprint.
3. Media-savvy presentation. From staged press events to active social accounts, Ayodele understands how to turn a prophecy into a viral story that will be picked up by blogs, newspapers, and TV.
The public verdict: faith, influence, and skepticism
To millions of Nigerians — and to his core following — Primate Ayodele remains a pastor-prophet whose warnings must be taken seriously. To others, he is a media personality whose relevance depends as much on spectacle and circulatory power as on supernatural insight. What is indisputable is his role in magnifying the religious dimension of national life: when he speaks, politicians, congregants, and newsrooms listen. That attention, in turn, helps determine which social and political questions become urgent in public debate.
Looking ahead
As Nigeria heads into another cycle of elections and economic challenges, Ayodele’s annual pronouncements will almost certainly return to the front pages. Whether they are read as sober warnings, political interventions, or performative theology, they will continue to shape conversations about destiny, leadership, and the kinds of risks a deeply religious nation believes it must prepare for.
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