By Abdullahi Bala Isa
July 2025 marks 35 years since the passing of one of Nigeria’s foremost elder statesmen, Sir Kashim Ibrahim, CBE, GCON, LLD, Wazirin Borno, whose selfless service and modest legacy continue to inspire generations. Born in 1910 in Gargar Ward, Yerwa (now Maiduguri), Sir Kashim rose from a humble Qur’anic education background to become a towering figure in Nigeria’s political and educational development.
A man of extraordinary intellect, humility, and deep patriotism, Sir Kashim began his formal education at Borno Provincial School in 1922, completing it in 1925 due to his outstanding academic performance. He proceeded to Katsina Training College (now Barewa College, Zaria), where he graduated in 1929 with a Grade II Teachers Certificate. He began his career as a schoolteacher at Borno Middle School and quickly rose through the ranks, becoming a Provincial Visiting Teacher in 1933 and later Senior Visiting Teacher.
In 1935, he was conferred with the traditional title of Shettima of Borno, and by 1942, he became the Shehu of Borno’s representative in the Education Department. His rapid ascent in public service culminated in his appointment as Provincial Education Officer in 1949.
Sir Kashim’s influence went beyond education. In 1951, he ventured into politics under the platform of the Northern Peoples Congress (NPC), representing Borno in the Northern Regional Assembly. His brilliance earned him a place in the Federal Cabinet as Minister for Social Services, overseeing education, health, and social welfare. He later served as Minister for Social Development and Surveys in Northern Nigeria.
A man of integrity and simplicity, Sir Kashim Ibrahim was appointed Wazirin Borno in 1956 and became the first indigenous Governor of the Northern Region on June 21, 1963—a position he held until the First Republic was truncated by the January 15, 1966 coup.
Following his exit from public office, Sir Kashim returned to Maiduguri, where he lived a quiet life, devoted to farming and traditional leadership. His commitment to education never waned; he authored several elementary-level books in Kanuri and donated part of his only personal residence for use as a school.
Chairman, College Council of the Nigerian College of Arts, Science and Technology, Zaria (1958)
Member, Law Reform Panel for Northern Nigeria
Member, Senate of the Federal Republic (1960–1962)
Chancellor, University of Ibadan (1966–1977)
Chancellor, University of Lagos (1977–1984)
Pioneer Chairman, Provisional Council of the University of Northern Nigeria (now Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria)
Chairman, Borno State Council of Chiefs
Sir Kashim was known for his modesty, discipline, and unshakeable dedication to public service. Unlike many public figures of his time—and certainly of today—he lived a simple life, owning only one house in Maiduguri. His literary works, including Kanuri Reader and Kanuri Arithmetic series, played a key role in promoting mass literacy.
Commander of the British Empire (CBE), conferred by Queen Elizabeth II
Member of the Order of the Niger (MON)
Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON), one of Nigeria’s highest national honours
Numerous institutions, buildings, and streets have been named in his honour, including the Kaduna State Government House and facilities at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria.
Sir Kashim Ibrahim passed away on Wednesday, 25th July 1990, at the age of 80. His death marked the end of an era of selfless leadership, but his legacy lives on.
May Allah grant him Aljannatul Firdaus. Ameen.
