In life, we all have people we admire from childhood for reasons sometimes difficult to explain. They become our inspiration, our compass, and, in many ways, the silent architects of our dreams and values.

As a child, my greatest hero was my father. To me, he was the best man in the world, and because he was an accountant, I once dreamed of becoming one too. As I grew older, however, I became even more attached to my mother because of her discipline, principles, and upright nature. She became my best friend, my role model, and my confidant. The older I became, the more I understood her wisdom and embraced the values she lived by, values that have greatly shaped and redefined me today. May Allah forgive her shortcomings and grant her eternal rest in Aljannah, Ameen.

My father’s younger brother, Baba Hassan, was another personality I deeply admired for reasons known only to my heart. In fact, all my friends knew about my admiration for “Baba Hassan,” as I fondly called him. It even became a subject of playful teasing among friends. My dear friend, Aisha Sidi, would jokingly say, “Baba Hassan Heron Murjanatu Abba.” At home, too, some family members nicknamed me “Murjan-Baba Hassan.” Such was the depth of admiration I had for him.

Beyond family, however, life blesses us with people we encounter in our academic and professional journeys who leave lasting impressions on our hearts. One of such rare personalities for me is the gentle, kind-hearted, and exceptionally disciplined woman I have admired both secretly and openly since joining the services of Ahmadu Bello University, the remarkable woman who transitioned from Malama to Dr., and now Professor Maryam Ibrahim.

Professor Maryam Ibrahim is a woman of grace, discipline, compassion, hard work, integrity, and honesty. She embodies punctuality and quiet excellence. She is not loud, nor does she seek unnecessary attention. Instead, she carries herself with maturity, dignity, and admirable composure.

From a distance, one might easily assume she is a strict, no-nonsense lecturer, and indeed, she is disciplined and serious about her work. Naturally, unserious students may find such a principled lecturer intimidating, but for focused and determined students, she is the kind of mentor from whom one gains lifelong lessons.

Professor Maryam is a true silent achiever. Even in a small gathering, her presence is calm and unobtrusive, yet her impact speaks volumes. She is humility and discipline personified.

Yesterday, when the Vice-Chancellor of Ahmadu Bello University honoured and recognised outstanding staff members within the university community, it came as no surprise to me that Professor Maryam Ibrahim emerged as the Great Fellow of the Year from the Faculty of Social Sciences. The recognition was not only well deserved but also a reflection of years of dedication, excellence, and selfless service.

 My joy knew no bounds upon hearing the announcement. I sincerely pray that Allah continues to elevate her, honour her efforts, and grant her even greater achievements in the years ahead.

Interestingly, this recognition comes barely a year and a half after her hometown, Udubo in Bauchi State, held a grand celebration to honor her as the first female professor from the community, a remarkable milestone that continues to inspire countless young girls and women.

May Allah continue to increase you in wisdom, honour, good health, and greater heights.

Congratulations to my mentor and role model.

Congratulations to the silent achiever.