Introduction In a world where power often seeks attention and authority announces itself with noise, life with General LF Abdullahi unfold...
Introduction
In a world where power often seeks attention and authority announces itself with noise, life with General LF Abdullahi unfolded for me as a quiet revelation-an encounter with a rare form of greatness defined not by display, but by depth. It was, indeed, a time well spent exploring the astonishing qualities of a man whose life gave profound meaning to leadership, generosity and service to humanity.
General Abdullahi was not merely a thinker of the moment, but a master of foresight, one who understood that true strategy lies not only in action, but in anticipation. His mind moved with precision and gentility, calmly navigating complexity-never hurried, never careless. In moments where uncertainty clouded judgment, he remained composed, guided by discipline and an unshakable clarity of purpose.
Beyond his strategic brilliance stood a thoroughbred professional, refined, principled and unwavering in standards. For him, professionalism was not a garment worn for appearance; it was a code deeply internalised. Every decision, every directive and every engagement bore the imprint of excellence. He demanded much, yet never unjustly; he led firmly, yet never harshly. Under his command, structure did not suffocate humanity-it refined it.
What made life with him truly remarkable was the seamless harmony between authority and humility. He embodied a rare balance: approachable yet deeply respected, simple yet profoundly impactful. Rank did not elevate him above others in attitude; rather, it deepened his sense of responsibility towards them. He listened-truly listened-and in doing so, gave voice to those who might otherwise have remained unheard.
His presence inspired not fear, but confidence; not distance, but connection. He understood that leadership is not measured by how many obey, but by how many are uplifted. He neither chased recognition nor depended on it, yet his influence spoke volumes. His humility was not weakness, but strength in its most refined form-the kind that restrains ego and elevates purpose.
As a patriot, General Abdullahi stood firmly rooted in service to his nation. His commitment was not shaped by convenience, but by conviction. He understood that the true defense of a nation lies not only in arms and strategy, but in integrity, sacrifice, dedication, constant supply of electricity, and the empowerment of those entrusted with its protection. In him, patriotism was not proclaimed-it was practised, consistently and selflessly. Thus, life with the Humble-General was far more than shared moments; it was an enduring lesson in character-a reminder that greatness does not need to be loud to be felt, nor forceful to be respected. It revealed that the most powerful leaders are those who combine intellect with humility, generosity with humanity, authority with compassion, and duty with honour.
An Encounter with General
One fateful afternoon, a friend of mine, Hon. Najib Ibrahim Danmalam, called to discuss a job opportunity in Abuja, an opening facilitated through the General’s associate, Alhaji Lawal Lankasta. As a young and vibrant graduate with a passion for business, I initially resisted, preferring the independence of my modest enterprise to the structure of salaried employment. Yet he insisted, reminding me that opportunity rarely knocks twice. That evening, after closing from work, I returned home deep in thought, torn between ambition and caution. In the end, I accepted, trusting that time would reveal the wisdom in the decision. Upon arrival in Abuja, we passed through the Federal Ministry of Works and Housing, where we met Engr. Aliyu Faskari, who later conveyed us to the General’s residence. That very night, after the Isha’i prayer, he conducted a capacity assessment, simple in form, yet profound in intent.
At the time, my mind was still tethered to business aspirations, and I must admit, I did not commit my full energy to the exercise. Yet, through the encouragement of friends and family, I eventually embraced the opportunity fully. Indeed, Allah’s plans are always perfect. Soon after, I returned to Abuja, this time, not with hesitation, but with purpose.
The Nigerian Defence Academy Journey and Unmatched Generosity
After gaining admission into the Nigerian Defence Academy for Postgraduate Studies in Electrical Engineering (Electronic and Communications), the General was among the first to congratulate and encourage me to pursue.
One particular challenging day, without funds to travel or even Photocopy Lecture Materials, I found myself in quiet distress. Yet, in a moment that can only be described as divine intervention, the General discerned my situation without words. With remarkable generosity, he provided support far beyond expectation, enough not only for my immediate needs but for sustenance beyond the journey. It was not an obligation. It was pure altruism-the mark of a true professional and a compassionate leader. Even after my Master’s Programme, his encouragement did not cease; he continued to urge me toward greater academic heights, including a PhD.
A Life of Simplicity and Depth
Not long after my arrival, an Islamiyya school was established under the International Management Development and Language Learning Academy (IMADELLA). Among the students were myself, Malam Na’im, Baba Maigadi (Mohammed Lawal Idris), his orderly (LCpl Yakubu) and remarkably, the General himself.
Here was a Two-Star General, a PhD holder in Sociology, eloquent in Arabic, and deeply grounded in Islamic knowledge, humbly seated as a student learning Qur’an, Fiqh, Hadith and Arabic alongside those young enough to be his children, except for Baba Maigadi. It was humility in its purest and most practical form. On one occasion, while we were digging a hole to erect flags for IMADELLA, he quietly took the tool and joined in the labour, working until someone gently relieved him.
Another day, at his office in the Nigerian Army Resource Centre, a visitor mistook me for his son. With a gentle smile, he simply replied, “He is my brother.” That response spoke
volumes-not merely of humility, but of inclusiveness and human dignity. Even in moments of authority, his composure never faltered. During an encounter with security officers who unknowingly overstepped, he responded not with intimidation, but with quiet dignity, revealing his identity only when necessary and departing without spectacle.
A Prayer Warrior and Intercessor
General Abdullahi was a man deeply rooted in faith, one who believed in the power of prayers with unwavering conviction. There was a time he invited Huffaz (Memorisers of the Holy Qur’an) to complete it at IMADELLA, seeking divine blessings. His devotion extended beyond public acts; his prolonged supplications after obligatory prayers and his private night vigils (Qiyamul-Lail) spoke of a deeply personal relationship with his Creator. Indeed, he stood out as an intercessor-one who rises not only in strength but in supplication; a man whose presence bridges burdens and brings relief, standing in the gap for others with faith, courage and compassion. During Ramadan, he encouraged a culture of learning by assigning Ta’alim sessions after Taraweeh prayers, engaging everyone, including his children, in teaching and reflection. His concluding remarks were always rich with wisdom, gratitude and prayer.
A Father and Mentor Par Excellence
To me, the General remains a profound source of motivation, academically and beyond. His guidance extended into every aspect of life, blending discipline with genuine care. When he tasked me with preparing a presentation for the Federal Ministry of Youth and Development, he ensured not only intellectual readiness through rehearsals but also personal presentation, even advising on attire.
On the day of the event, he provided his personal Vehicle and logistical support. Upon return, however, his only question was simple: “How did it go?” That trust spoke louder than any interrogation ever could. He treated everyone around him like family-attentive to their well-being, resolving conflicts with fairness and nurturing growth with patience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the time spent with General LF Abdullahi stands as a rare privilege-an immersion into a life of purpose, discipline and quiet excellence. His legacy transcends rank and accomplishment; it lives in the standards he upheld, the lives he transformed and the enduring values he embodied. To have known and served under him is to encounter a timeless truth: that the highest form of leadership is not in commanding from above, but in inspiring from within. He has indeed left indelible footprints on the sands of time. His life affirms that leadership anchored in purpose can shape destinies and elevate generations.
A servant-leader who leads from the front!
A mentor to our generation!
A soldier’s General-courageous, fearless, yet deeply approachable!
His gentility, humility and generosity remain unmatched; intellectually, he stands as nothing short of a moving Encyclopedia.
Engr. Kamal Badamasi Labbo writes and can be reached at:
kamalablabbo@gmail.com / kamalablabbo@yahoo.com
08063313758 / 08066600886 / 08026942822.
kamalablabbo@gmail.com / kamalablabbo@yahoo.com
08063313758 / 08066600886 / 08026942822.
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