Last weekend in Morocco, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar attended and chaired the wedding ceremony of Muna Ezeibe and his beloved bride, the daughter of a former Prime Minister of Burkina Faso. Many people wondered why Atiku Abubakar made himself so visible at the occasion despite his busy political schedule. The answer lies in a story that dates back to 1982, during his years as a Customs Officer. While serving in the Nigeria Customs Service in Apapa Ports, Atiku Abubakar encountered three young Nigerians whose determination, hard work, sincerity, and entrepreneurial spirit greatly impressed him.
Acting strictly within his official capacity, he facilitated the issuance of Customs licenses to them as Clearing and Forwarding Agents. Those three men were Otunba Oyewole Fasawe, Chief Okey Ezeibe, and Chief Peter Eloka Okocha.
What appeared to be a routine official responsibility at that time later became the foundation of enduring friendships built on trust, loyalty, and mutual respect. From that humble beginning, small seeds of opportunity grew into mighty trees of success.
Years later, when Atiku Abubakar became Vice President of Nigeria in 1999, he did not abandon the friends he had known from his early public service years. Otunba Fasawe, through Atiku, was introduced to President Olusegun Obasanjo, and both men went on to develop a strong and lasting relationship.
Throughout his career, Atiku Abubakar has quietly touched countless lives. He has mentored many Nigerians, opened doors of opportunity for others, and contributed immensely to the success stories of numerous individuals, not minding their tribe or religion. Many of those who benefited from his generosity and guidance have openly acknowledged his impact on their lives.
It therefore becomes difficult to understand when some people ask what Atiku Abubakar has done for Nigeria and for humanity. The answer is evident. Beyond serving his fatherland meritoriously as a Customs Officer and later as Vice President, he has remained a catalyst for the growth and success of many people. Through his businesses and investments, thousands of families have earned livelihoods, while many young Nigerians have found hope and opportunity in him.
His decision to leave behind pressing political engagements to honour Muna Ezeibe, Chief Okey Ezeibe’s son in Morocco, speaks volumes about his character. It reflects loyalty, gratitude, and the rare ability to sustain friendships across decades.
In a world where many relationships are driven by convenience, Atiku Abubakar continues to demonstrate the enduring value of genuine friendship and human connection.
Senator Ehigie Uzamere
