Usman @83: Saluting a true Nigerian treasure
By Khalid Imam
TODAY marks the 83rd birthday of one of Nigeria’s most distinguished patriots and statesmen, the esteemed Dr. Bukar Usman. He is by all accounts, a true patron of Nigerian culture, history and literature! Born on December 10, 1942, in Biu, Borno State, Dr. Usman has led an astonishing life as a public policy maker, folklorist, historian, and writer, and who has made an indelible mark on Nigerian literature and in the public service.
With over 40 books to his credit, covering wide a range of topics such as children’s literature, public policy, media, security, and folklore. Dr. Usman’s awesome literary contributions are a true testament to his remarkable dedication to preserving Nigerian cultural heritage. His autobiography, Hatching Hopes, and other works like My Literary Journey and My Public Service Journey… among others showcase his creative ingenuity, remarkable storytelling ability, depth of knowledge and rich experience.
Personally, as a writer who has developed a keen interest in Dr. Usman’s fascinating contributions to Hausa literature in particular and Nigerian Literature in general, I must say that my very close association with him in the last two decades has been beneficial in honing me to be a better and productive writer. To stress, for instance, enjoying his wonderful cooperation and generous support, l have authored the following books: Justice, Fairness and the Quest for an Egalitarian Society (essays – LAP LAMBERT Academic Publishing, Germany; 2016), Falsafar Bukar Usman (poetry, 2019), Kundin Hirarrakin Bukar Usman (Interviews, 2018), Songs for Bukar Usman, (poetry, 2020), Conversation with Bukar Usman (interviews, 2021), among others. And not yet done, following my visit to Biu, his birthplace in 2023, works on these forthcoming titles are nearing completion: Yamtarawala: Kudin Wasu Waƙoƙin Ziyarar Kasar Biu (poetry), Biu Hamshaƙin Birni A Kan Tsauni (travelogue) and Discourses on Bukar’s Folklore Studies and Social Impact (essay).
To me and dozens of other young writers, a worthy whetstone indeed he is and will continue to be. Dr. Usman is a pan-Nigerian who is famed for silently supporting numerous literary events and conferences across Nigeria. An unmatched generous philanthropist, patron and donor of books he is to scholars, individuals, schools, tertiary institutions, public libraries, and books lovers not only within Nigeria and Africa, but across European universities as well.
As the founder of Dr. Bukar Usman Foundation and President of Nigerian Folklore Society, Dr. Usman has tirelessly worked to promote knowledge, public enlightenment, and cultural preservation. His numerous awards, including the Linguistic Association of Nigeria (LAN) award, the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) award, and Fellow of Nigerian Academy of Letters are a testament to his outstanding contributions to Nigerian literature.
Considering Dr. Usman’s most fulfilling life and sparkling accomplishments both during his career as a disciplined and astute public officer and his awesome life after service, describing him as a true Nigerian treasure is not hyperbolic! Sir, may your shining legacy continue to inspire us and generations to come!
Wishing my great mentor a life full of happiness, sound health and continued selfless service to humanity.
* Imam is a Kano-based multiple award winning writer and educator
