Between Pantami and the Men of Yesterday By Abdullahi O Haruna Haruspice
It has been two years since Prof. Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami left office in dignified gusto as the Minister of Communications and Digital Economy. Yet, not a single day has passed without an engagement. From one corner of Nigeria to the farthest reaches of the world, his schedule remains an unrelenting cycle of impactful discourse. The Gombe-born enigma—an intellectual powerhouse—continues to shape conversations beyond public office, proving that leadership is not merely a position but a lifelong responsibility.
In the past two years, Pantami has delivered over a hundred lectures across diverse platforms—engaging students, youth organizations, university communities, rural audiences, religious gatherings, and international think tanks. His discourse cuts across a broad spectrum of subjects that resonate with the realities of human existence, leadership, and governance.
Pantami is institutionalizing a leadership model similar to that of global statesmen, where former leaders dedicate time to sharing their experiences with the people. By doing so, they pass on lessons, insights, and aspirations—helping shape future leaders and institutionalizing knowledge transfer. This is a stark departure from the norm in our clime, where many former officeholders either loiter in search of new appointments or become disruptive antagonists to the new administration.
We have seen, time and again, how some men of yesterday—driven by resentment and a misplaced sense of entitlement—refuse to let go. Rather than allowing the new players their moment on the stage, they throw spanners into the wheel of governance, breeding volatility where there should be stability. But no society thrives when the past refuses to give way to the future. Leadership is a relay race—yesterday was your turn; today belongs to another. The least you can do is cheer, not disrupt the rhythm.
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Pantami’s post-office engagements offer a refreshing contrast. He has demonstrated that leadership is not confined to political appointments—it is a lifelong commitment to service. Even outside government, he remains resourceful, dispensing knowledge and contributing meaningfully to society. Whether as a preacher, lecturer, politician, or author, Pantami continues to shape conversations that matter.
There is no doubt Prof. Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami has remained incredibly busy even after his tenure as Minister of Communications and Digital Economy. Here are some of his notable engagements:
Visit to Al-Farouq Academy and Al-Farouq Multimedia Centre: A demonstration of his commitment to education and community development in Kaduna.
Media Interview after Jama’atu Nasril Islam Meeting: Engaged the media after making a presentation at a Jama’atu Nasril Islam meeting in Kaduna.
Keynote Speech at the University of Maiduguri: Delivered a keynote on “Harnessing Sustainable Development Goals for Economic Frontiers” at the 2nd International Conference.
Appreciation Award and Visit to Al-FURQAN Islamiyya School: Received an appreciation award and attended the 2024 Qur’anic Graduation and Ijaza Presentation Ceremony in Kumo.
Guest Speaker at JIBWIS’ Appeal Fund: Spoke at the JIBWIS appeal fund event for educational development in Abuja.
Resource Person at the 5th African Peace Forum: Served as a resource person in Nouakchott, Mauritania, discussing “The African Continent: The Imperative for Dialogue and the Pertinence of Reconciliations.”
Attendance at the Joint Meeting of the Board of Trustees and Governing Council of Phoenix University: Participated in strategic discussions at Phoenix University, Nasarawa State.
These engagements present Pantami’s beyond a politically inclined interest to education, community development, and international cooperation. His ability to remain an influential figure beyond office speaks volumes about his leadership ethos—one that prioritizes knowledge, service, and the greater good. And it should be a template for yesterday ‘s men.
Impressively musing
