SPEECH DELIVERED BY HON.ABUBAKAR BAWA BWARI DURING THE VALIDITORY SESSION IN HONOUR OF THE FORMER SPEAKER LATE HON.GHALI UMAR NA'ABA HELD BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ON 22/2/2024 IN ABUJA.

FAREWELL TO GHALI UMAR NA'ABBA

Today is a day of mixed feelings for me. It is a day of gratitude for the honour my being bestowed on our great leader of blessed memories and a yet a sad one because our hearts are heavy as I bid farewell to a dear friend and esteemed colleague, Rt.Hon.Ghali Umar Na'aba. We shared a bond that transcended politics, a bond built on trust, respect, and mutual admiration. Hon. Na'aba was not just a political figure to me, but a confidant, a mentor, and a source of inspiration.

I recall the countless times we worked side by side in the House of 1999, facing the challenges and triumphs of our roles together. Hon. Na'aba led with unwavering integrity, never wavering in his commitment to upholding the values of honesty and transparency. He was a pillar of strength in times of turmoil, a voice of reason in moments of chaos, and a beacon of hope in the face of adversity.

One of the qualities that I admired most about Hon. Na'aba was his fearlessness. He never backed down from a fight, always standing up for what he believed in, no matter the consequences. His courage was a guiding light for us all, reminding us that true leadership requires the willingness to take a stand, even when it's not the popular choice.

But perhaps what I will remember most about Hon. Na'aba was his ability to unite. In a House divided by political affiliations and personal agendas, he was a unifying force, bringing us together in pursuit of a common goal. He understood the power of collaboration and consensus-building, and he worked tirelessly to bridge the gaps that divided us, fostering a spirit of unity and cohesion.

As I stand here today, mourning the loss of my dear friend, I am filled with gratitude for the time we shared, the memories we created, and the lessons he taught me. Hon. Na'aba's impact on me, on the House of 1999, and on Nigeria as a whole, will live on long after his passing. His legacy of integrity, leadership, and patriotism will continue to inspire us to strive for a better future, to fight for justice, and to never back down from doing what is right.

To the House of 1999, Hon. Na'aba's absence leaves a void that can never be filled. He was not just a member of our team but a guiding force, a mentor, and a friend. As we navigate the days ahead without him, let us honor his memory by upholding the values he cherished, by standing up for what is just, and by working towards a Nigeria that he would have been proud of.

Rest in peace, dear friend. Your spirit will forever live on in our hearts, guiding us, inspiring us, and reminding us of the incredible legacy you leave behind.

The world will not forget you in a hurry.

HON.ABUBAKAR BAWA BWARI
FORMER MINISTER OF SOLID MINERALS & STEEL DEVELOPMENT.