Former Kano State Governor, Senator Ibrahim Shekarau, on Wednesday marked his 70th birthday with a heartfelt call for forgiveness and reflection on a life of public service, gratitude, and faith.
Speaking during an interactive media session to mark his 70th birthday at his Kano residence at Mandubawa, Shekarau reflected on his life’s journey, expressing gratitude to Allah and seeking forgiveness from those he may have offended during his years of public service.
According to him, “By the prophetic statement of our Rasul (SAW), the average age of my people is between 60 and 70 years. At 70, one is at the end of the bracket — anything beyond this is extra time, and the referee can blow the whistle at any moment.
“Having attained the age of 70, I consider this a remarkable milestone and an opportunity to reflect. In the course of serving humanity, I might have offended some people, and others might have offended me.
“I sincerely ask for forgiveness from all, and I have also forgiven anyone who wronged me, knowingly or unknowingly. May Allah, in His infinite mercy, register my forgiveness to all” he said.
Shekarau, who served as a two-term governor, Minister of Education, and Senator, attributed his achievements to divine guidance, good conduct, and lessons learned from his parents and mentors.
He recalled his early days as a teacher and education administrator, describing them as formative years that instilled in him discipline and a commitment to service.
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Reflecting on his upbringing, he shared how his father’s advice on self-reliance and patience shaped his character, highlighting that, his father told him never to depend on anyone but to find his own feet – a lesson that has guided him throughout life.
He urged Nigerians to embrace good conduct, hard work, perseverance, patience, and dependence on God as keys to success, noting that those were pillars that sustained him through life’s challenges.
While thanking his family, colleagues, political associates, and supporters for their contributions to his journey, Sen. Shekarau further urged leaders in the country to act with sincerity and compassion, emphasising that leadership and public service are tests of faith.
