FAAN Celebrates Kabiru Mohammed with Emotional Send-Forth Ceremony
The boardroom of the Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) was transformed last week into a scene of warmth and elegance as colleagues, friends, and family gathered to celebrate the retirement of Alhaji Kabiru Mohammed, General Manager, Research and Development.
The farewell ceremony was not merely a routine send-off; it became a heartfelt tribute to a man whose career left an indelible mark on the Authority. It was an evening steeped in gratitude, admiration, and respect, celebrating a legacy of service, resilience, and humility.
From the opening moments, the atmosphere brimmed with emotion. A citation read by Mrs. Ezinne Oguledo detailed Mohammed’s journey – his humble beginnings, academic pursuits, and professional affiliations – painting a portrait of a life defined by persistence and excellence.
Tributes soon followed, each one reflecting the depth of his impact. FAAN’s Director of Corporate Services, Mr. Jensen Asaba, represented by Mr. Segun Peters, spoke of the bittersweet nature of the occasion: the joy of celebrating Mohammed’s transition into a new phase of life, and the pain of seeing a pillar of the Authority bow out.
Other colleagues echoed similar sentiments. Mr. Hyacinth Ngwu praised Mohammed’s versatility, noting his remarkable contributions across five different departments.
General Managers Mrs. Asmau Nagenu and Mr. Oluwaseun Peter hailed his humility, collaborative spirit, and quiet strength. To them, Mohammed was not just a colleague but a source of inspiration who carried out his duties with grace and purpose.
A deeply personal tribute came from Alhaji Alhassan Gwarzo, a longtime friend and fellow member of the Association of National Accountants of Nigeria (ANAN).
He reminisced about their days as classmates and professional allies, describing Mohammed as an energetic and vibrant figure who remained deeply committed to service beyond his official duties. “Welcome back to private life,” he said warmly, convinced that retirement would not diminish Mohammed’s spirit.
The family’s gratitude was conveyed through his son, Kamal Mohammed, who thanked FAAN for honouring his father. He described his father as strong, vibrant, and still brimming with energy – a man of integrity, humility, and quiet excellence. To them, retirement was not an end, but a culmination of a distinguished journey filled with sacrifices and triumphs.
When Alhaji Mohammed himself took the floor, the room fell silent. In his trademark calmness, he reflected on his years at FAAN as enriching and transformative. He recalled joining the Authority as a stranger to many, but leaving with invaluable friendships and bonds.
Though challenges arose, he saw them as bends in the road that only strengthened his resolve. Above all, he expressed gratitude to the Almighty, his family, and his colleagues for their unwavering support.
“What stands out in FAAN,” he said with quiet pride, “is the culture of love and mutual support among staff. It is remarkable and worthy of commendation.”
The evening culminated in the cutting of the cake, a toast, gift presentations, and a cascade of photographs capturing moments of joy and reflection.
What emerged was more than a retirement ceremony. It was a celebration of a man who walked FAAN’s corridors as a manager, mentor, and friend – a symbol of loyalty and integrity.
Though Alhaji Kabiru Mohammed now bows out of active service, the echoes of his contributions will continue to resonate within the Authority for years to come.
