Prime Business Africa
When Deputy Corps Commander Abdullahi Sani retired from the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) on 7 December 2025 after 35 years of service, he carried with him more than a commendable record – he carried the imprint of a mentor who helped shape his career: former FRSC Marshal and Minister of Aviation, Osita Chidoka.
In 2007, while serving as Corps Marshal, Chidoka received a letter from a Deputy Route Commander in Kaduna. “The cadence, clarity and confidence of the writing caught my eye immediately,” he recalled. “I asked to see the officer.”
Join our WhatsApp ChannelWhen Sani arrived, his modest appearance belied the sharp intellect that emerged in conversation. “Within minutes his composure and confidence were unmistakable,” Chidoka said. He offered Sani a simple question: “Are you available to work with me?”
Sani accepted and was appointed Staff Officer, Media. He excelled under Chidoka and later served two successive Corps Marshals in the same capacity. “He was the kind of officer you could trust with your most important messages,” Chidoka noted.
Even after Chidoka transitioned to the Ministry of Aviation, he continued to call on Sani for major speeches. “I often fell back on him to craft my key remarks,” the former minister said.
Beyond professional duties, the mentorship extended to personal life. “He kept me informed about his children’s progress,” Chidoka added with a smile. “They were a source of pride to all of us, and I was honoured to be their ‘Uncle.’”
Last year, Chidoka visited Sani at his Lekki command, where he observed an office that was “orderly and professional, with staff morale evident on every face.” The visit left him “deeply proud” of the leader Sani had become.
Reflecting on the experience, Chidoka said, “Abdullahi Sani was one of my great human‑resource revelations in the public sector. He reaffirmed my long‑held belief: every state in Nigeria has outstanding talent – what often differs is opportunity.”
Sani, now retired, expressed his gratitude: “I am humbled by the trust and guidance I received from Mr Chidoka. He taught me that excellence, humility and integrity are not optional; they are the foundation of leadership.”
Chidoka concluded, “I have no hesitation in recommending him to any state government or institution. He possesses Uche (knowledge), Uchu (hard work) and EgwuChukwu (high moral conduct). I wish him a fulfilling retirement and look forward to seeing him contribute further – perhaps as an Athena Fellow.”
The story of Sani’s 35‑year career, framed by Chidoka’s mentorship, underscores how a single leader can cultivate a network of disciplined, integrity‑driven professionals across Nigeria’s public institutions.
