By CHARLES IWUOHA

The Alumni Association of the National Institute (AANI) has honoured a former governor of Sokoto, Yahaya Abdulkarim.

AANI President, Ambassador Emmanuel Obi Okafor Okafor, bestowed the honour when he recently led a high-powered delegation to visit the first democratically elected Executive Governor of Sokoto State at his residence in Gawon Nama, Sokoto.

Ambassador Okafor, during the visit, stated that it was ?imperative to pay homage to leaders like Mallam Yahaya Abdulkarim, who have made significant contributions to the growth of AANI.?

He briefed the former governor on the current activities and initiatives of the association under his leadership. Expressing gratitude for Mallam Abdulkarim?s unwavering support to the Sokoto State chapter and AANI at large.

He also lauded his sterling leadership qualities and immense contributions during his public service as a governor, minister and other various national strategic appointments.

This was contained in a statement issued on Thursday by Brigadier General Sani Kukasheka, AANAl National Publicity Secretary, and made available to News Express.

The AANI President reaffirmed the association?s pride in Mallam Abdulkarim?s achievements and extended warm wishes for his 80thbirthday, praying for continued blessings and good health.

Responding, Mallam Yahaya Abdulkarim expressed joy and pride in the visit, commending the efforts of the AANI leadership. He encouraged Ambassador Okafor and his team to continue repositioning the association for greater impact.

Reflecting on the current state of the nation, Abdulkarim voiced concern over the growing insecurity and widespread poverty.

He urged for collective action in addressing the country?s recurring conflicts, emphasising the need for all stakeholders to work together.

Furthermore, he called on the security agencies to adopt more proactive strategies, urging them to pursue bandits and kidnappers into their known enclaves.

He also encouraged AANI to remain a strong voice against societal ills.

In a gesture of appreciation, Ambassador Okafor presented a token souvenir to the former governor.

Similarly, the host also reciprocated with the presentation of souvenirs to the President and members of the delegation.

The visit was graced by key AANI members, including the Sokoto State Chapter Chairman, Mallam Abubakar Sokoto Mohammed, mni; Alhaji Samaila Umar Sifawa, mni; Magajin Garin Sifawa; AANI National Treasurer, Brigadier General SK Usman (rtd), mni, AANI National Publicity Secretary; Alhaji Muhammad Nasir Ladan, mni, Director of Administration of AANI; Alhaji Muhammad Mainasara Ahmad, mni, Sokoto State Chapter Secretary General; Alhaji Shehu Usman Ladan, mni, Auditor; Hajiya Aisha Umar Hassan mni, Social/Welfare Secretary and Hajiya Aisha Mohammed Dantsoho mni, Legal Adviser for the Sokoto Chapter.

Upon arrival earlier in the day, Ambassador Okafor mni was warmly received at Sultan Abubakar International Airport, Sokoto, by the Sokoto State Chapter Chairman, Mallam Abubakar Sokoto Mohammed, mni, and several members of the State Executive Committee.

Ambassador Okafor and his delegation were in Sokoto for the AANI Sokoto State Chapter?s 2024 Annual General Meeting (AGM) and elections, scheduled to take place over the weekend.