A Legacy of Integrity: Remembering a Forthright Mentor, Mallam Kabir Dangogo
Today, we bid farewell to a man of exceptional character—a distinguished, impartial, and extraordinary gentleman whose life was a testament to integrity, forthrightness, and detribalized patriotism. Mallam Kabir Dangogo was not only a consummate Public Relations professional but also a mentor whose guidance I will forever cherish. As the head of Public Relations at Union Bank, he set a gold standard for excellence, running a seamless office that became the benchmark for his peers.
Mallam’s door was always open to me, and his mentorship was instrumental in shaping my career. When I single-handedly established the Public Relations Department at the Nigerian Export-Import Bank, he guided me through the fundamentals of the profession with unwavering patience and generosity. Unlike many of his contemporaries, Mallam went above and beyond, providing me with access to critical information, PR courses, and invaluable connections that helped mold me into a proficient practitioner. The rest, as they say, is history.
Mallam’s belief in my potential was unwavering. He consistently included me in his new initiatives and introduced me to the Federation of African Public Relations Associations (FAPRA), now known as the African Public Relations Association (APRA). He even recommended me as his successor for the position of General Secretary. Though I did not secure the role, his faith in me left an indelible mark on my professional journey and outlook.
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His influence extended far beyond my personal growth. Mallam played a pivotal role in my becoming the first female Chairperson of the Lagos Chapter of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR). He facilitated my connections with PR luminaries such as Hajia Lami Tumaka, Eddy Wikina, and the late President Bob Ogbuagu. While the late Gbade Sanda introduced me to the NIPR, it was Mallam Kabir who nurtured me, personally and professionally, with a rare blend of wisdom and encouragement.
One of Mallam’s most enduring legacies is the Association of Corporate Affairs Managers of Banks (ACAMB). When he first proposed the idea, he ensured that I was included as a founding member. Today, ACAMB stands as a highly reputable body within the financial sector’s public relations landscape, boasting over 350 members. I am deeply honored to serve on its Board of Trustees, a testament to Mallam’s foresight and commitment to fostering excellence in the field.
Mallam’s forthrightness was both his strength and his hallmark. He called a spade a spade, never sugarcoating issues or compromising his principles. Black was black, and his yes was yes. This unwavering honesty, while admirable, sometimes led to misunderstandings, and he was occasionally labeled as proud for refusing to condone inappropriate behavior. His relocation to Kaduna further distanced him from some of his professional colleagues, but ACAMB remained a steadfast supporter of its founder throughout his illness. For this, we remain eternally grateful to this esteemed body of financial PR professionals.
Just two days ago, I found myself revisiting Mallam’s authored works, unaware that the Spirit of God might have been preparing me for the news of his passing. His books, like his life, are a treasure trove of wisdom and insight. I will deeply miss him, as will the entire Public Relations community in Nigeria and across Africa. We have lost an icon, a mentor, and a true gentleman.
Adieu, Mallam Kabir Dangogo. Fare thee well. Your legacy of integrity, mentorship, and excellence will continue to inspire generations of PR professionals.
Nkechi Ali-Balogun Ph.D, fnipr
Former Chairman, NIPR Lagos State Chapter
CEO, NECCI Consulting
