A Call for Vigilance, Nuhu Bamalli Polytechnic Staff Quarters -By Abdullahi Adda’u Turawa

In recent times, the cherished lands upon which our educational institutions stand have come under threat, raising concerns about the future of educational development in our great state. A matter of particular concern is the encroachment into the land of Nuhu Bamalli Polytechnic Zaria, a revered institution that stands as a testament to the foresight of our past leaders.

Addressing His Excellency, Governor Mal. Uba Sani, in an open letter, Ishaq Alhassan Qauranmata articulated the gravity of the situation. He highlighted the historical significance of the North’s leaders, who, with great foresight, established educational institutions and allocated them vast lands in anticipation of future needs and development.

The letter served as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by leaders like Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, Sir Ahmadu Bello the Sardauna, Sir Kashim Ibrahim, Gen. Hassan Katsina, and Alh. Balarabe Musa. It underscored the importance of these leaders’ selflessness in providing a foundation for the education sector to flourish.

Nuhu Bamalli Polytechnic, formerly part of this visionary planning, now faces a challenge as certain individuals within the government appear to prioritize personal gains over the public good. The encroachment has already led to the carving out of approximately 84 plots of land, a move that jeopardizes not only the chance for future development but also the staff quarters integral to the institution.

Governor Uba Sani, as a beneficiary of the foresight exhibited by past leaders, is urged to intervene and protect the institution from this encroachment. The letter draws a parallel with the actions of the previous administration, which, despite its draconian reputation, rejected a similar suggestion to carve the land during its tenure.

The writer stresses the urgency of addressing this issue, especially in the context of the current challenges facing the education sector, such as falling standards, an increase in out-of-school children, and rising crime due to population explosion. Encroaching into institutional lands, particularly those reserved for educational purposes, risks compromising the state’s commitment to improving education infrastructure.

In concluding the letter, the writer calls upon Governor Uba Sani to not only address the immediate situation but also to ensure that no further attempts are made to encroach into institutional lands in the future. The hope is that the governor’s administration will rise above any actions that may tarnish its reputation and continue the legacy of promoting educational development in the state.
As concerned citizens, we echo the sentiment expressed in the letter, urging Governor Uba Sani to uphold the principles of educational progress and protect the invaluable lands allocated to our educational institutions. Our collective future depends on the preservation of these foundations that have been laid with the vision of a brighter, educated society.

Abdullahi Adda’u Turawa, wrote from Zaria.