A day with Pantami

BY ABDULLAHI HARUNA

Speaking in esoteric opulence, Professor Isa Ali Pantami serenades listeners with vocal dexterity, weaving a tapestry of words that mesmerize and enthrall. Every syllable uttered is a masterful stroke of linguistic artistry, leaving the audience spellbound and yearning for more.

Just when you think he has reached the pinnacle of eloquence, the scholar plunges deeper into the depths of expressive virtuosity. His words are a symphony of wisdom, a gentle breeze that rustles the mind, awakening hidden truths and stirring the soul.

Recently, I spent a day with Pantami at his office after he scheduled a meeting. The teacher, cleric and politician is Nigeria’s immediate past Minister Communications and Digital Economy and former Director General of National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA).

Pantami walked in and greeted all present with cheerful gestures while strolling to his desk. With a smile, he asked: “Mallam Abdullahi, You speak with the eloquence of a Hausa speaker, but I know you are not one!” I replied: “I am actually Igala but born in Zaria; the melting pot of intellectual seekers.”

As a journalist and author, I was enthusiastic about discussing the book which has generated significant buzz, both praise and criticism, within and outside the country. “Are you not worried about the negative reviews?,” I enquired in earnest.

Pantami’s response was characteristically optimistic: “The greatest tragedy is to write and not get reactions. The demand for mine has skyrocketed, with vendors struggling to keep up. This is how you measure the success of a book.

“The several reactions generated have led to an astronomical increase in demand, such that the book is now sold out. The online vendors are actually overwhelmed by ceaseless demand. I thank those who made this possible,” he said.

The book has been translated into five languages – Spanish, French, Mongolian, Hausa, Arabic – and is being used in universities and other tertiary institutions after grabbing the attention of critical thinkers, creators, innovators and individuals with the mindset of champions.

When asked about time management, given his prolific writing, preaching, and political activities, Pantami stated: “I don’t manage my time, I utilize my time with priority set out. I spend most of my day worshipping my creator, ample time with my family, and the rest researching and reading.”

I was indeed left in awe of my host’s visible passion for education and commitment to empowering young minds, the future leader. His answers quite expository, painting a vivid picture of the human experience and illuminating the path to understanding.

I left, feeling the urge to integrate his teachings into my craft and amplify the positive messages in the publication. I believe Pantami has sparked a revolutionary effect. The onus is now on everyone, especially youths and rising generations, to have degrees backed with skills.

Haruna is author of ‘The Buhari In Us’ and can be reached via [email protected]