Allah, in His infinite wisdom, mercy and knowledge, decreed the affairs of His creations long before He created the heavens and the earth. As Muslims, we believe that nothing escapes His knowledge and that every human being has a unique destiny, with different opportunities, challenges and encounters, all within His divine decree. It is by the will of Almighty Allah that I became part of the Masari political circle, where my association with Alhaji Ibrahim Kabir Masari has taught me invaluable lessons about discipline, sacrifice, commitment and, above all, loyalty.
For approximately three months, I contemplated writing this article. I hesitated because, from my experience, Alhaji I.K Masari does things for the sake of Allah without seeking unnecessary publicity. However, I eventually realised that there are lessons worth sharing, particularly with young Nigerians who desire success and political relevance but may not fully appreciate the discipline, sacrifice and consistency required to achieve them.
Many people admire those who enjoy access to influential figures without understanding the responsibilities and sacrifices that sustain such relationships. My purpose, therefore, is not merely to celebrate Alhaji Masari but to share lessons I have learnt from being close to him, especially his loyalty to his principal, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.
Loyalty Beyond Words
In Northern Nigeria, even before the commencement of the 2023 election campaigns, I observed Alhaji I.K Masari working tirelessly to promote President Tinubu’s candidacy and communicate his vision to Nigerians. His concern was how to showcase the President’s achievements, explain his policies and build support for his political objectives.
At a time when some members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) appeared reluctant to speak openly about the President’s re-election prospects, Masari remained actively engaged. He continued meeting stakeholders, building relationships and making the case for the President.
His engagements extended to traditional rulers, religious leaders, community leaders, political office holders, party leaders, youth representatives, women’s groups, professional associations, business people and other influential stakeholders across the North.
These efforts taught me that political commitment goes beyond public declarations and campaign slogans. It requires consultation, persuasion, patience and the ability to engage people from different backgrounds. Loyalty, in this sense, is demonstrated not merely by what one says but by the work one is willing to do.
Today, this action has inspired even those who were previously reluctant to openly campaign for the President to now rally behind him, driven by the strength of his grassroots political network and behind-the-scenes efforts.
The Nights That Revealed His Commitment
Some of my most instructive experiences with Alhaji Masari occurred late at night, when most people would ordinarily be resting.
Alhaji I.K. Masari’s commitment to his responsibilities is reflected in the countless hours he devotes to engaging with various stakeholders and participating in strategic discussions on the country’s political direction and the way forward for the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
On many occasions, these engagements extend well into the early hours of the morning, sometimes until 3:00 or 4:00 a.m., leaving him with little or no time for his family. Yet, despite the exhaustion that such demanding schedules inevitably bring, he rarely allows himself the luxury of rest. Immediately after one meeting, he may proceed to another or continue with other pressing responsibilities, remaining focused on the tasks before him.
What makes this commitment even more remarkable is his consideration for those working alongside him. There were times when, despite our youthful energy and eagerness to keep working, he would insist that we retire and get some rest while he continued attending to his responsibilities. His actions demonstrated not only his personal dedication but also his concern for the well-being of those around him.
These experiences gave me a practical understanding of sacrifice. I learnt that meaningful political work often takes place away from the public eye, through consultations, planning and sustained effort. Those who have been entrusted with responsibility must be prepared to embrace the demands that come with them rather than merely desire the privileges.