The Pantami I Know: A Testimony To His Humility, Wisdom, And Leadership

The Pantami I Know: A Testimony to His Humility, Wisdom, and Leadership By Abubakar Umar

I vividly remember my first encounter with Shaykh Professor Ali Isa Pantami back in 2001. It was at the Ummah Mosque, Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University ATBU Bauchi, shortly after the Zuhr prayer. He had gathered all the new studentsDirect Entry, 100 Level, and Remedial studentsfor a welcome address. In his usual endearing and impactful style, he urged us to fear Allah, dedicate ample time to our studies, and surround ourselves with individuals who would enhance our lives, both in terms of faith and academics. Those golden few minutes have left a lasting impression, serving as a guiding principle throughout my time on campus.

Barely two weeks later, I encountered him again near the popular L.E. Lecture rooms, walking from the car park to the department. I was with a dear friend who happened to be wearing jeans that extended below his ankles. In his characteristic gentle manner, Prof. Pantami greeted us warmly, shook our hands, and kindly corrected my friends attire.

Following that, he inquired about our studies. We responded with an Alhamdulillah, and he imparted more timeless wisdom: Make every effort to understand what youre being taught. For those aspects that require memorization, commit them to memory for those that demand comprehension, ensure you grasp them fully. But remember, there is no time to wastetime runs faster here.

Those words became our mantra, and by Allahs grace, we graduated among the top of our classes.