The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has bid an emotional farewell to one of its finest officers, Alhaji Kabiru Mohammed, General Manager of Research and Development. The ceremony, held in the boardroom of the Managing Director, was transformed into a warm and elegant setting where memories, gratitude, and admiration flowed freely in honour of a man who dedicated decades of service to the Authority.
Far from a mere retirement party, the occasion became a celebration of life, loyalty, resilience, and professional excellence — a crowning moment for a man who walked FAAN’s corridors with grace, quiet strength, and an unwavering commitment to public service.
A Journey Marked by Persistence and Excellence
The event began with a moving citation read by Mrs. Ezinne Oguledo. She traced Alhaji Mohammed’s humble beginnings, his academic pursuits, and his professional affiliations, painting a portrait of a career defined by persistence, focus, and achievement. Her words set the tone for a day filled with tributes that underscored the depth of Mohammed’s impact on FAAN.
Colleagues Reflect on a Career of Service
Tributes poured in from senior officials and colleagues who worked with Mohammed over the years.
FAAN’s Director of Corporate Services, Mr. Jensen Asaba, represented by Mr. Segun Peters, delivered a heartfelt speech that captured the bittersweet nature of the event. He described Mohammed’s retirement as a joyful milestone yet acknowledged the significant void his departure would leave in the Authority.
Other tributes followed in quick succession. Mr. Hyacinth Ngwu praised Mohammed’s rare versatility, having served with distinction across five departments. General Managers Mrs. Asmau Nagenu and Mr. Oluwaseun Peter highlighted his humility, teamwork spirit, and quiet leadership, qualities that made him more than a colleague — but also a mentor and a source of inspiration.
Perhaps the most personal tribute came from Alhaji Alhassan Gwarzo, Mohammed’s longtime friend and professional ally. He recalled their days as classmates and fellow members of the Association of National Accountants of Nigeria (ANAN), describing him as a man of boundless energy whose service extended beyond the corporate sphere. With warmth and humour, Gwarzo welcomed his friend “back to private life,” confident that retirement would not diminish his vibrant spirit.
A Family’s Voice of Gratitude
The emotional weight of the occasion deepened when Mohammed’s son, Kamal, spoke on behalf of the family. He thanked FAAN for honouring his father in such a grand way, describing him as strong, vibrant, and a living embodiment of integrity and humility. For the family, retirement was not simply the closing of a chapter but the recognition of a distinguished life dedicated to service and sacrifice.
Mohammed’s Reflections: A Life Well Served
When the man of the hour finally took the stage, silence filled the boardroom. In his calm and dignified manner, Alhaji Kabiru Mohammed reflected on his years at FAAN, describing them as deeply enriching and transformative.
He recounted how he began his journey at the Authority as a stranger but leaves with invaluable friendships and bonds that became treasures for life. He acknowledged the challenges along the way but described them as necessary bends in the path of growth. Above all, he credited the Almighty for strength and life, while expressing gratitude to his family for their sacrifices and to his colleagues for their unwavering support.
“What stands out in FAAN,” he said with pride, “is the culture of love and mutual support among staff. It is remarkable and worthy of commendation.”
A Celebration Etched in Memories
The ceremony reached its climax with the cutting of the cake, a toast, presentation of gifts, and a cascade of photographs capturing the joy of the moment. It was not just a retirement send-forth, but a festival of appreciation, where colleagues celebrated the life of a man who had walked FAAN’s corridors not only as a manager but also as a mentor, a friend, and a symbol of integrity.
As the evening drew to a close, one thing was clear: while Alhaji Kabiru Mohammed may no longer serve within FAAN’s boardrooms, the echoes of his contributions will continue to shape the Authority’s legacy for years to come.
FAAN has honoured Alhaji Kabiru Mohammed, General Manager of Research and Development, with a heartfelt send-forth ceremony. The event celebrated his decades of service, humility, resilience, and impact on Nigeria’s aviation sector.
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