In a gesture underscoring respect for national service and elder statesmanship, former Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, recently paid a courtesy visit to retired Major General Mohammed Magoro. The meeting, held at General Magoro's residence, highlighted the enduring bonds among Nigeria's public servants and the importance of acknowledging the contributions of past leaders.
General Mohammed Magoro, born on May 7, 1941, in Kebbi State, is a distinguished figure in Nigeria's military and political history. He enlisted in the Nigerian Army in 1962, alongside notable contemporaries such as Ibrahim Babangida and Sani Abacha. Throughout his military career, Magoro held several key positions, including Commander of the Brigade of Guards and Commandant of the Nigerian Army School of Infantry. He furthered his military education at prestigious institutions like the Indian Military Academy and the United States Army War College.
Transitioning to public service, Magoro served as the Federal Commissioner for Transport under General Olusegun Obasanjo's military regime and later as Minister of Internal Affairs during General Muhammadu Buhari's tenure from 1984 to 1985. In this role, he oversaw significant internal policies, including the repatriation of undocumented immigrants in 1985. After retiring from active military service in 1995, Magoro ventured into the private sector, becoming Chairman of Ocean and Oil Services Ltd., which later evolved into Oando Plc following the privatization of Unipetrol Nigeria. His political journey continued when he was elected Senator for Kebbi South in 2011, serving until 2015.
Malami's visit is seen as a recognition of General Magoro's extensive service to Nigeria. While specific details of their discussion remain private, such interactions are emblematic of the respect accorded to elder statesmen and the value of their insights into national affairs.
Observers note that engagements like this reinforce the continuity of governance and the importance of learning from the experiences of past leaders. General Magoro's legacy, marked by dedication to national service across military, political, and private sectors, continues to inspire current and future generations of Nigerian leaders.
Tags
Newa