A Legacy of Leadership: Prof. Salisu Shehu’s Farewell to the Executive Secretary, IFN
By
Saleh Adamu Kwaru.
The news came not with a bang, but with a profound and heavy quiet. When Professor Salisu Shehu, our beloved Walin Tafawa Balewa, read before the 67th Executive Council Meeting on that solemn day, July 27, 2025, and tendered his resignation, it was a moment of truth we had anticipated yet silently hoped would never arrive. Like a family bidding farewell to its anchor, we were witnessing the departure of a guiding light whose decade of unwavering service must now make way for a greater national calling.
Those present, led by Alhaji M T Bello, the National Vice Chairman who stood in for Brig. Gen. Ahmad Muhammad Daku (Rtd), recall the IFN before his emergence: dormant, dignified in name but yearning for revival. Following a rigorous search by a restructuring committee, the choice was overwhelming and clear: Professor Salisu Shehu. His appointment in December 2016 marked not just a change in leadership, but the dawn of transformation.
Through his intellect and boundless energy, the Islamic Forum of Nigeria was reborn. His unwavering loyalty to the Council and dedication to excellence were evident from the outset. His legacy glimmers most notably in the establishment of the Annual Ramadan Lectures, a platform that soon evolved into a Mecca of spiritual and intellectual engagement, attracting an incredible cross-section of society, from traditional rulers and government officials to respected Ulama and professionals. The sheer public attendance was always a sight to behold, a testament to the professor’s vision and unifying spirit. Through this initiative, he exemplified Islamic leadership rooted in vision and responsibility.
As our beloved Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) taught: “The leader of the people is their servant.” (Musnad Ahmad), Professor Salisu embodied this principle, never seeking personal gain but prioritizing service, consultation, and empowerment. To execute his vision, he assembled a cadre of dedicated individuals, the Local Organising Committee (LOC). These young, energetic volunteers became the true foot soldiers of the Forum, tirelessly and selflessly giving their time and effort and indeed becoming the Forum’s lifeblood. For nine years, their tireless devotion elevated the Forum, brought prestige and continuity, reflecting the professor’s talent for nurturing leadership in others and the living legacy.
Beyond the National Headquarters, his influence expanded. He transformed the Forum into a hub for collaboration, reaching out to organizations with similar strategic intents, reviving dormant state chapters and positioned the Forum within national conversations. Even after his appointment as Deputy Secretary General of the Nigeria Supreme Council of Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) and later Vice Chancellor of Al-Istiqama University, Sumaila, his contributions to the Forum remained steadfast. Our appeals to him did not go unheard as he stayed, reaffirming his devotion. We are reminded again of the Prophet’s wisdom: “Each of you is a shepherd, and each of you is responsible for his flock.” (Sahih al-Bukhari). Professor Salisu upheld this trust with integrity and vision.
Yet leadership, like life, evolves. His recent appointment by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as Executive Secretary of the National Educational Research Development Council (NERDC) ushered in a new chapter. With responsibilities pulling him away from Kano since December 2024, sustaining both duties proved untenable. And so, with a heavy heart, he stepped aside, not out of resignation, but in fulfillment of a higher national priority.
🙏 وفقه لما تحب وترضى
“O Allah, guide him to what You love and are pleased with”. May He grant him wisdom, foresight, and barakah as he steers the NERDC into a vibrant educational agency.
As we turn the page, we welcome Alhaji Dalhatu Gwarzo, a man of resilience and administrative flair, as Acting Executive Secretary. The Forum stands firmly behind him, ready to uphold the legacy and forge new paths ahead.
Though we bid farewell to Professor Shehu in his official capacity, we do not part in purpose as his imprint remains indelible. The Forum will miss you, Maigirma Walin Tafawa Balewa, but your spirit, vision, and service will echo through our future.
Saleh Adamu Kwaru, is the National Auditor, Islamic Forum of Nigeria
05th August 2025