By Nura Suraj Gusau It was a dark evening for me when I received the news of Alhaji Sagir Balarabe, the Kaduna State HCD Focal Person, passing. I could not believe that he was gone because he was a man we looked up to for direction in our drive to achieve a productive population in Nigeria. His absence is difficult to accept, given the role he played in shaping ideas, guiding leaders, and strengthening the Human Capital Development space across the North. Balarabe served as Special Adviser and Focal Person on Human Capital Development to the Governor of Kaduna State and Chairman of the North West HCD Focal Persons Forum. In these roles, he stood out as a committed public servant who understood the value of investing in people. His work was driven by a clear vision that development must begin with human capacity, and he dedicated his time to ensuring that this vision translated into action. He was a man of deep faith, humility, and integrity. Those who encountered him will remember his calm disposition, his willingness to listen, and his ability to offer thoughtful and practical solutions. He carried himself with a quiet confidence that inspired trust and respect. His intellectual strength was evident, yet he remained approachable and sincere in all his engagements. On a personal note, his impact on my journey remains significant. When I was appointed Special Adviser to the Governor of Zamfara State on Human Capital Development, he was the first person I contacted for guidance. He welcomed me warmly and shared his experience without reservation. His advice on establishing and managing the Human Capital Development Secretariat in Zamfara provided a solid foundation for the work we continue to do today. Balarabe believed strongly in collaboration and partnership. He understood that meaningful progress in Human Capital Development required collective effort. Through his leadership, he encouraged coordination among states and ensured that knowledge and experience were shared. His influence extended beyond Kaduna State, as he supported other states and mentored many who are now contributing to the HCD agenda. His commitment to service was evident in the way he engaged with people. He was always willing to guide, support, and encourage others, especially emerging leaders. He never withheld knowledge, and he took pride in seeing others succeed. His presence brought clarity and direction, and his absence will be deeply felt across the HCD community. Balarabe’s legacy lives on in the institutions he helped to strengthen, the leaders he mentored, and the lives he touched. His contributions will continue to shape Human Capital Development outcomes in the North and across Nigeria. He has left behind a standard of service that will remain a reference point for many. On behalf of the Government of Zamfara State, the Human Capital Development Secretariat, and the HCD National Core Working Group, I extend heartfelt condolences to the Government and people of Kaduna State, his family, friends, and colleagues. His passing is a great loss to the North West, to the Human Capital Development community, and to the nation. We pray that Almighty Allah forgives his shortcomings, grants him Aljannatul Firdaus, and gives all those he left behind the strength and patience to bear this loss. Ameen.
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