Nasarawa State, with its prime location and abundant resources, is like a goldmine waiting to be tapped. But let’s be honest – having resources is one thing, knowing how to use them is another. That’s where mentorship comes in. And if we’re going to build a brighter future, we can’t just cross our fingers and hope for the best. We need people who know what they’re doing to guide the rest of us!
This article kicks off a series that will shine a spotlight on Nasarawa’s hidden gems – the indigenes whose talent and achievements can spark progress. First up is a man I’ve been following (online, no stalking involved!) for years: Dr. Ishaku Akyala.
Dr. Akyala: The Man Who Makes Science Look Cool
Let’s get one thing straight: Dr. Ishaku Akyala isn’t just a doctor; he’s basically a superhero in a lab coat. Born in Obi LGA, he’s a molecular virologist, public health epidemiologist, and an Associate Professor of Infectious Diseases. His resume reads like an academic action movie, featuring global research, vaccine design, and consulting gigs with major health organizations like WHO.
I’ve never met Dr. Akyala (never even spoken to him!), but I’ve been following his work online for years. His achievements caught my attention, and trust me, when someone with this many degrees and accolades stands out, you know they’re doing something right. It’s high time we gave this man some public recognition.
As someone once said, “Success is not counted by how high you have climbed, but by how many you have brought with you!” Dr. Akyala is that someone for Nasarawa.
Youth Empowerment: Because We’re Tired of Complaining About Unemployment
In an open letter to Governor Abdullahi Sule on 18th March, 2022, Dr. Akyala threw down a challenge. He proposed the creation of a Youth Development and Empowerment Agency for Nasarawa. This isn’t just a pipe dream; it’s a concrete plan to make sure our youth have something productive to do other than scroll through social media all day.
One point, in particular, got me excited: his suggestion to focus on skills like enterprise development, vocational training, and even leveraging entertainment and sports. Let’s face it, “Idle hands are the devil’s workshop” – or, in today’s case, TikTok’s workshop! Dr. Akyala knows that empowering youth with real skills is the only way forward.
Dr. Akyala: Because the Best Mentors Don’t Just Lecture – They Lead by Example
Dr. Akyala is not only book-smart but also street-smart when it comes to public health and entrepreneurship. His life story is a real-life example of what Nasarawa’s youth can achieve with the right guidance.
Mentorship isn’t just about passing down knowledge; it’s about teaching others how to navigate the real world. As I’ve watched Dr. Akyala’s trajectory, it’s clear he’s the type of mentor who doesn’t just talk the talk – he walks the walk. His combination of brains and bold action is exactly what we need.
As the saying goes, “The road to success is always under construction” – and with mentors like Dr. Akyala, at least we’ll have someone directing traffic!
What Are We Waiting For? The Future Won’t Fix Itself
We can talk about youth empowerment all day, but talk doesn’t plant crops, create jobs, or start businesses. Dr. Akyala has laid out a plan, and it’s high time we put it into action. Creating a Youth Development and Empowerment Agency isn’t just a good idea – it’s a lifeline for the next generation.
We’ve all heard the quote, “The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second-best time is now.” Well, the best time to invest in Nasarawa’s youth was yesterday. The second-best time? Right now.
Mentorship – The Secret Ingredient for Nasarawa’s Recipe for Success
If you want Nasarawa State to succeed, it’s time to roll up our sleeves and start mentoring the next generation. Dr. Ishaku Akyala has already shown us the way forward, and the future looks bright – if we’re willing to put in the work.
To all the future leaders, entrepreneurs, and innovators out there, remember this: “Behind every successful person, there’s a mentor who’s been there, done that, and knows where the pitfalls are.” Let’s tap into the wealth of experience people like Dr. Akyala have to offer. The future of Nasarawa depends on it.
As they say, “The best way to predict the future is to mentor it!”
Abu can be reached via danjumaabu3750@gmail.com or +2348062380296
