The Bauchi State Government has officially renamed the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) orientation camp in the state in honour of the late educationist, Malam Y.M. Baba.
This announcement was made by the state Head of Service, Sani Umar, during a symposium held on Saturday in Bauchi to pay tribute to the late Baba.
Umar stated that the renaming is intended to immortalise Y.M. Baba, who was a dedicated champion of education.
“By the grace of God, in his honour, the state is doing a lot in education. But first of all, I would like to make it clear that the name of Bauchi State NYSC orientation camp has been formally changed to Malam Y.M. Baba Orientation Camp,” he said.
He added that the state government was also working to improve the quality of education, particularly through the recruitment of more teachers in core subjects at both primary and secondary school levels.
Commenting on Bauchi’s ranking among states with high numbers of out-of-school children, the Head of Service noted that the situation had improved.
According to him, several communities in the state have requested the conversion of day schools into boarding schools to boost enrollment and retention.
He disclosed that the government had already responded by converting about 10-day schools into boarding schools across the state.
On his part, the convener of the symposium, Adamu Yashi, described ‘Malam Yusuf Muhammad Baba’ as a true servant of the people who lived a life of discipline, honesty, humility, and wisdom.
Yashi, while addressing participants at the event, said Baba was not an ordinary man but a father, a teacher, a leader, and a community builder whose impact was felt in Bauchi State and Nigeria at large.
He noted that many people were familiar with Baba’s name and story, but insisted that it was not enough to merely know about him.
According to him, citizens must learn from his life, emulate his values, and uphold the principles he stood for.
“This symposium is therefore a chance for us to remember the good life he lived, learn from his values of honesty, humility, and hard work, encourage the younger generation to walk in his footsteps, and strengthen the link between education, tradition, and leadership,” Yashi stated.
He emphasised that leadership was not about power or position alone but about service, sacrifice, and care for others.
Listing Baba’s contributions, Yashi recalled that the late educationist served as a class teacher, principal, provost, registrar, permanent secretary, Secretary to the State Government, district head, and above all, a father figure to many.
“The best way to honour Mallam Yusuf Muhammad Baba is not just by talking about him, but by living like him.
“Be disciplined, be respectful, be truthful, and be committed to making society better. That is how we keep his legacy alive,” he added.
The convener further expressed appreciation to Mohammed for supporting the programme, as well as traditional rulers, special guests, and partners who graced the occasion in honour of the late Baba.
Y.M. Baba is the eldest biological brother of the Bauchi State Governor. He is said to be the guardian of Governor Bala after the death of their father.