By Comrade Umar Saleh Osude
An atmosphere of gratitude, emotion, and deep reflection filled the hall on Wednesday, 28th January 2026, as Information Officers gathered to bid farewell to the retiring Director of Information, Danmusa Mohammed, whose years of service left an indelible mark on the Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism.
The farewell ceremony, organised by the Information Officers, was a heartfelt tribute to a leader whose legacy is defined by visionary leadership, mentorship, compassion, and selfless service.
Declaring the ceremony open, the Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Nasarawa State Council, Mohammed Salihu Alkali, showered encomiums on the outgoing Director, describing him as a transformational leader who repositioned the Ministry to meet global best practices.
He acknowledged Danmusa Mohammed’s strategic contributions to the growth of the information sector and openly credited him for the guidance and support that contributed to his own emergence as NUJ Chairman.
He further applauded the Director’s humanitarian spirit, noting that his generosity and kindness set him apart as a role model to Information Officers across the state.
In his remarks, Mallam Shehu Ibrahim reflected on the remarkable transformation of the Department of Information, particularly in the area of ICT development, attributing much of the progress to Danmusa Mohammed’s foresight and determination.
He emotionally recalled their cordial working relationship spanning over two decades, urging Information Officers to emulate the outgoing Director’s dedication, discipline, and humility. He also appealed to Danmusa Mohammed to keep his doors open to officers who may seek guidance, wisdom, and mentorship even after retirement.
The emotional peak of the event came during the remarks by Mercy Tanze and Adama, who were visibly overwhelmed by emotions and struggled to speak.
They described Danmusa Mohammed as a father, mentor, and moral compass, whose counsel and encouragement shaped their careers and lives. With tears and gratitude, they thanked Almighty Allah for his life, appreciated his unwavering kindness and love, and wished him a fulfilling and peaceful retirement.
Other speakers, including Mr. Adigidzi, Ibrahim Dauda (B.Y), Mr. Joel, the Chairman of the Information Chapel Murtala Nuhu, and several others, also paid glowing tributes to the outgoing Director.
They unanimously praised his inclusive leadership style, mentorship culture, and consistent humanitarian gestures, stressing that his impact went far beyond official duties.
Responding, Danmusa Mohammed, filled with gratitude, thanked the Information Officers for the overwhelming love and honour accorded to him. He urged them to uphold unity, harmony, and professionalism, advising officers to focus on his positive contributions rather than personal shortcomings. In a powerful closing message, he reminded them of the importance of sharing, compassion, and brotherhood, emphasizing that even in scarcity, officers should learn to support one another.
The ceremony ended not as a goodbye, but as a celebration of a life of service—one whose legacy will continue to inspire generations of Information Officers in Nasarawa State.
