Mustapha Ibrahim, an educationist who produced many professors in different fields

The death of the educationist, Mustapha Ibrahim, has attracted tributes from mourners, especially in Kano, where he had been involved in academic development. His death was not only a loss to his family, friends and associates, but also to many who benefitted from his generosity and kindness. In a tribute, his nephew, Umar Tijjani, described […]

The death of the educationist, Mustapha Ibrahim, has attracted tributes from mourners, especially in Kano, where he had been involved in academic development.

His death was not only a loss to his family, friends and associates, but also to many who benefitted from his generosity and kindness.

In a tribute, his nephew, Umar Tijjani, described him as a remarkable personality who touched so many lives.

He wrote: “Today, we honour the legacy of a remarkable Alhaji Mustafa Ibrahim, who died on May 15, 2025. He was such a devoted educationist, banker, board member of TETFUND, leader and philanthropist.

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“As a classroom teacher, principal and executive secretary of Science Schools Board in Kano State, he produced several professors in many fields, especially medicine and technology; and shaped the future of education.

“He established the Mustibra Group of Schools, a private establishment which comprises nursery, primary, secondary and tertiary institutions.

“His tenure as the manager, HR at Union Bank showcased his financial acumen and leadership skills. The late Ibrahim processed the promotion of all the messengers, drivers and approved their upgrade to junior clerks. These were members of staff who spent over 10 years in such same positions.

“The deceased was known for his spirit and zeal for assistance. However, it is his philanthropic spirit, discipline and kindness that truly defined him. His impact extends beyond his professional achievements. He touched many lives within and outside his immediate family, fostered growth and left an indelible mark on his community. We celebrate his life, legacy and the values he embodied.

“Rest in peace, Alhaji Mustafa. Your contributions will forever be cherished.”

Similarly, a civil servant and Kano resident, Fatihu Mustapha, remembers his encounter with the late Ibrahim when he was heading the Kano State Science and Technical Schools Board.

She said she wanted a transfer from Government Technical College, Wudil to Government Science Secondary School, Dawakin Tofa, but despite family ties, the late Mustapha Ibrahim insisted on merit and advised that she remained at GTC, Wudil.

“Fatihu believed that Mustapha Ibrahim was meticulous at any job or task given to him. She prayed for the repose of his soul.”

Born in 1952, the late Mustapha Ibrahim attended Gidan Makama Primary School, Gwale City Secondary School and capped it with a B.A Ed (Economics) from the prestigious Ahmadu Bello University Zaria in 1977.

He started his career as a teacher at the Government Secondary School, Gujungu and later, principal, Government Secondary Science School, Dawakin Tofa, and later, Rano, after which he rose to become the executive secretary of the Kano State Science and Technical Education Board. He was promoted to the post of Director of School Inspection in the state Ministry of Education.

He later joined the Union Bank Plc and rose to the rank of a deputy general manager, human resources in Lagos.

He was also a director in Keystone Bank from 2011 to 2015. Between 2011 and 2014, Mustapha Ibrahim was a trustee representing the North-West in the Board of Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND), where his robust contribution impacted infrastructure and education development.

In addition to a merit award from the Igbo Traders Association for his efforts towards the growth of the commercial city of Kano and Nigeria, Ibrahim received several awards and commendations, including a special commendation for embarking on unpaid services running a free adult literacy programme in Kano.

He was buried at Tarauni cemetery on Thursday evening at ICU, AKTH after he succumbed to the inevitable hands of death.

Many, including relatives, paid glowing tributes to his exemplary and altruistic lifestyle.

Additional contributions from Ahmed Datti, Kano