The April edition of the Inspiring Leadership Reflection Interactive Series (ILERIS), hosted by the Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD), featured an engaging session with Malam Adamu Aliyu Kiyawa, Dan Masanin Dutse and District Head of Kiyawa. Held on April 22 in Kano, the event drew a vibrant audience of students, academics, community leaders, and young professionals eager to learn from a man whose career spans education, journalism, public service, and entrepreneurship.
Malam Kiyawa is a veteran educator and broadcaster, former BBC journalist, serial commissioner in Jigawa State, and founder of several prestigious schools including Dutse International Model School and Gateway International Schools. With degrees from ABU Zaria and the University of Wisconsin-Madison, he has contributed significantly to Nigeria’s educational and media landscapes.
Opening the session, Mr. Isah Garba, CITAD’s Senior Programme Officer, described ILERIS as a generational bridge—connecting youth with seasoned leaders through shared reflections and life lessons.
Rather than a formal lecture, Kiyawa delivered a heartfelt conversation. He emphasized the value of staying active and purposeful, warning that idleness breeds misdirection, while consistent effort builds resilience. He spoke of the power of persistence, urging attendees not to be discouraged by setbacks or slow progress.
“Books,” he said, “are loyal companions that shape your thinking and character.” He encouraged participants to cultivate a reading culture, surround themselves with people of integrity, and avoid destructive habits like gossip and revenge. “The wrong company can quietly derail your path. But if you dare to walk alone in truth, you will stand out.”
Kiyawa also reflected on delayed rewards, reminding the audience that early roles often come with little financial gain. “Give more than you’re paid for. The reward will come—if not now, then later, and in greater measure,” he said.
Another core theme of his message was people-centered leadership. Quoting the Prophet Muhammad (SAW), he underscored empathy, community-mindedness, and humility as essential leadership values. He advised young leaders to maintain moral discipline, forgive easily, and lead by example in both public and private life.
Touching on personal well-being, Kiyawa emphasized faith and health as essential pillars of leadership. The Qur’an and prayer, he shared, had guided his life, while physical health remained critical to sustained impact.
As he neared the end of his reflection, Kiyawa offered a profound message on retirement and legacy: “Retirement should never mean the end of purpose.” He remains active in education and media, living proof that a commitment to service transcends age or formal roles.
The session concluded with a token of appreciation from Muhammad Sani Saidu, CITAD’s Human Resources Officer, who presented Kiyawa with a set of CITAD publications.
The April ILERIS session was more than an event—it was a masterclass in purpose-driven leadership. It reminded participants that true leadership is not a position, but a lifetime of service anchored in principle, perseverance, and compassion.