- By Mike Cerutti Osagie
” The enchanting city of Rome was not built overnight “- Italian proverb
Mallam Garba Shehu, former Special Assistant on Media and Publicity to ex-President Muhammadu Buhari, is currently quite . But beyond the headlines, I want to share the Garba Shehu I know personally.
My experience with him dates back to when he served as the spokesman for H.E Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, the Waziri Adamawa. Even then, one thing stood out. He is a total gentleman. Calm, respectful, and deliberate in how he carries himself.
•A Refreshing Approach
Unlike many Special Assistants who block access and shy away from introducing visitors or media practitioners to their principals, Garba Shehu took a different route. Years back ,He personally took me live to The Waziri Atiku. The Waziri not only received copies of my book on billionaire tycoon Uche Ogah, but also granted me an exclusive interview over a luxury dinner overlooking Atlantic ocean by Eko hotel Lagos . That gesture meant a lot. Atiku appreciated by book gift and pledge to read it till end and laughed that people hardly give him gifts
•A Humanitarian at Heart
From my interactions with him ( Shehu) , I have come to appreciate his humanitarian nature. He is always willing to lend a helping hand to his friends. Wherever I call on him, he picks his calls. He is never proud. That kind of accessibility is rare in high places.
Today, like always, I find myself asking: why do some people in power block others from meeting their principals ? I am trying to reach a few governors and even presidential aspirants. I know their media aides and a few close associates, yet the walls go up. Access becomes a luxury.
Indeed, good men like Garba Shehu are scarce. In a system where gatekeepers often forget service, he remains open. That is why I hold him in high regard. The country needs more public officers who understand that leadership is also about people.
Today like always, I pray for Shehu and wish him all the best in all his endeavours. May God continue to guide him, protect him, and open greater doors for him.
© Osagie, a professional wordsmith and humanitarian, is the publisher of the newly released international magazine brand called Richlist. He sent this piece from his Ikoyi, Lagos base.
He can be contacted via chiefcerrutti@gmail.com. or SMS whatsap +234 7042631895
©