A Tribute to the Longest-Serving VON Correspondent in Zamfara State

By Nura Mohammed VON  Minna Correspondent 

In 2011, right after completing my National Youth Service Corps, I embarked on my journalistic journey at Voice of Nigeria (VON). My introduction to VON came through a brother employed by the corporation, who eloquently described the inner workings of the radio station, sparking my interest. On my inaugural day tuning in to Voice of Nigeria, I tuned into a report segment featuring the voice of Danjibga. To my astonishment, I discovered that we both hailed from the same local government in Zamfara state which is Tsafe.

A strong bond formed between us, extending beyond just myself to encompass all the Hausa service staff. His benevolence shone through when I was tasked with covering the 2019 Gubernatorial election. He toiled diligently to ensure the Correspondents' Chapel offered us the necessary support. Furthermore, Hamisu Danjibga made certain we had suitable accommodations, routinely checking on our well-being as the senior colleague with morning calls. Our departure from Zamfara after completing the assignment was marked by joy and contentment, courtesy of his warm reception.

Subsequently, an intimate and affable relationship was established with Alhaji Hamisu Danjibga. He frequently called to extend greetings and ask of other colleagues.

Interactions with him filled me with joy, as he consistently offered prayers in Hausa Language through various social media platforms  for our success and for the well-being of our community in Zamfara state as a result of banditry.

 "Allah ya yiwa alummar jihar Zamfara da sauran alummomin  jahohin kasar nan mafita ta alheri." was  one of his slogans on his Facebook and other social media platforms, signifying, 'May Almighty Allah find a lasting solution for our community and the nation at large.

Based on my limited research, Hamisu Danjibga dedicated most of his journalism career to Voice of Nigeria, making significant contributions by submitting reports and program materials for the Hausa service. With him around during our time in Lagos, we always retained hope of receiving reports from Danjibga whenever the Hausa service is operating at  Lagos station because he consistently delivered.

Hamisu Danjibga stood as one of the leading veterans in the media industry in Zamfara State, actively fostering positive working relationships between journalists and the government of Zamfara State. He played a pivotal role in enhancing Voice of Nigeria's reputation, not only in Zamfara State but across the heart of North-Western Nigeria.

His passing came at a time when the service needed him most, but we firmly believe that one's destiny cannot be surpassed. Nevertheless, he will forever hold a place in the hearts of his family and colleagues in the media industry.

Hamisu Danjibga, may Almighty Allah grant you a place in Jannatul Firdausi and provide your family and colleagues with the fortitude to bear this loss.