By Chimezie Godfrey
The Alumni Association of the National Institute (AANI) has congratulated Brigadier General Sani Kukasheka Usman (rtd) mni fnipr on the occasion of his birthday, describing him as a distinguished patriot and strategic communicator.
In a congratulatory message, the President of AANI, Ambassador Emmanuel Obi Okafor, said the association was celebrating “one of our most outstanding members, our dear brother, friend and colleague,” as he marked another remarkable birthday.
He said Usman’s life reflects “service, sacrifice, integrity, intellect and uncommon commitment” to the association and national development.
According to him, “Brigadier General SK Usman (rtd) mni’s distinguished military career, crowned by his outstanding tenure as Director of Army Public Relations, remains a benchmark in professional military communication, civil-military relations and strategic engagement.”
Okafor added that “beyond the uniform, he has continued to serve Nigeria with passion and principle, through thought leadership, mentoring of younger professionals, scholarly contributions, public policy advocacy and steadfast commitment to professional institutions.”
He said Usman’s voice “has consistently been one of reason, patriotism and balance, especially in moments of national challenges.”
Describing his personal qualities, Okafor said Usman is “widely respected as a bridge builder and unifier, a consummate team player whose honesty, loyalty and deep respect for colleagues and institutions have earned him enduring admiration.”
He noted that as National Publicity Secretary of AANI, Usman “brought professionalism, excellence, clarity, credibility, discipline and strategic direction to the Association’s communication architecture.”
According to him, Usman also “projected AANI with dignity, intellectual depth and national relevance.”
Okafor said the recent “Sentinel of Freedom Service Award” conferred on him by the Ministry of Defence and the Armed Forces of Nigeria further affirmed his sacrifices and leadership.
He said, “This rare recognition eloquently affirms the enduring value of his lifelong commitment to the defence, security, national unity and stability of our country.”
He added that AANI is proud of the honour.
Okafor prayed that God grants him “many more years in sound health, renewed strength, deeper wisdom and greater opportunities to continue serving Nigeria.”