An elder statesman and former Pro-chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Adamu Fika is dead.
Fika, who had been battling with health related problems for some time, died last night, October 24, on his return from a London hospital to Kaduna. He was 90.
Funeral prayers has been scheduled to hold at Sultan Bello Mosque, Kaduna today, October 25th, by 4:00pm.
Malam Adamu Fika, born in Fika in 1933, had an illustrious career, serving also as Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF).
The deceased, who until his death was Wazirin Fika in Yobe State, began his educational journey at Kaduna Government College and the Nigerian College of Arts, Science, and Technology, now known as Ahmadu Bello University. He started his career as a Mathematics and Physics teacher at Barewa College in Zaria, where he influenced the lives of many students, including General Theophilus Yakubu Danjuma and the late Emir of Lafia, Isa Mustapha Agwai.
Throughout his career, Malam Adamu Fika held several significant positions, including Permanent Secretary of various federal ministries, such as Internal Affairs, Commerce, and Communications.
He also served as the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation and made invaluable contributions to the development of Nigeria. He resigned in protest when the government of General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida splitted the office of the Secretary to the Government and Head of Service to the federation, warning that it would destroy the civil service. He received numerous honors and awards for his exceptional service, including the Commander of the Federal Republic (CFR) by the Federal Government in 1992.
He was revered for his dedication, integrity, and leadership skills, making him a highly respected figure in Nigeria.
His passing is a great loss to the nation, as he leaves behind a legacy of excellence, professionalism, and selflessness.
Malam Adamu Fika’s contributions to education, public service, and the development of Nigeria will be remembered and cherished for years to come.
Incidentally, last week, the Governor of Yobe State, Mai Mala Buni, visited him on his sick bed at the London hospital when he visited the United Kingdom on a working visit.
