By Solomon Igwe
The new generation of auctioneers, innovators, professionals, and digital-age leaders have stepped forward, ready to carry the noble auctioneering profession from its rich past into a dynamic and technology-driven future.
This generation is not detached from history; rather, it is firmly grounded in the wisdom, discipline, and technical foundations laid by our founding fathers and past leaders. They are equipped, inspired, and prepared to advance those legacies to greater heights.
Among the distinguished candidates presented to the Nigeria Association of Auctioneers (NAA), the following gentlemen stand out as tested, trusted, and forward-looking leaders capable of steering the affairs of our great Association:
Auct. Engr. Isibor Benjamin Abhulimen for National President, NAA.
The candidacy of Engr. Isibor Benjamin Abhulimen represents continuity, innovation, and purposeful leadership. A true pace-setter, trailblazer, and innovator, his impact has cut across the length and breadth of the NAA. It is difficult to find a member who has not directly or indirectly benefited from his progressive initiatives.
As the saying goes, “When the elephant walks through the jungle, it creates the smoothest pathway for others to follow.” Such a leader deserves to be honoured with the responsibility of piloting the affairs of the Nigeria Association of Auctioneers as National President. His landmark initiatives particularly the certified and collaborative training with the South African College of Auctioneering have expanded our professional scope, strengthened capacity, and positioned auctioneering as a billion-naira industry. These contributions cannot be forgotten in a hurry.
Auct. Mohammed Abatcha for Vice President, NAA.
Fondly referred to as the gentle giant, Alhaji Mohammed Abatcha is a man of vast connections, influence, and credibility. If connection had a name, it would bear his. He understands the corridors of opportunity and knows how to unlock doors for collective progress. These are the qualities required in a Vice President to help actualize the aspirations and goals of the NAA.
Auct. Dr. Duze Lawal Mohammed Kamal, PhD for Secretary General of NAA.
A young, vibrant auctioneer of the digital generation, an academic, and a product of a strong auctioneering lineage, Dr. Duze Lawal Mohammed Kamal brings intellect, energy, and innovation to the table. A good listener, administrator, and strategist qualities that define effective leadership he is well suited for the role of Secretary General in this new era.
Auct. Dr. Ekundayo W. Balogun for Public Relations Officer (P.R.O.), NAA
The choice of Dr. Ekundayo Balogun as P.R.O. is timely and strategic. Information management, public engagement, and media visibility of the NAA can only improve under his stewardship. His passion for communication and image-building aligns perfectly with the future needs of our Association.
Collectively, these gentlemen have proven their worth and can rightly be described as prime-time auctioneers—leaders with coordination, vision, and capacity to sail the ship of the NAA to its desired destination for the benefit of all.
Dr. Ekundayo’s quest also takes me down memory lane.
I recall 2009 my early interaction with Alhaji Ahmadu Abubakar (Alhaji 1010) of blessed memory and one of his bosom friend, our paths crossed at the Daily Trust Newspaper, where I served for nearly 14 years. They brought auction adverts for publication, and through curiosity and consistent engagement, my interest in auctioneering grew. They introduced me to the larger NAA family, and from there, history was made.
I vividly remember the 2013 NAA general elections. With utmost respect to our founding fathers and past leaders, auctioneering then occupied the backseat in the Nigerian media space. I had to encourage emerging leaders to embrace media engagement, often drafting press releases myself and persuading them to sign and publish. We learned together, step by step, until the transformative leadership of Auct. Engr. Isibor Benjamin Abhulimen expanded our visibility, and repositioned the profession nationally and internationally.
Now is the time to consolidate these gains by assembling a vibrant media and communications team for the Association starting with Dr. Ekundayo Balogun for a brighter, more visible future for the NAA.
I sincerely commend and appreciate our revered elders, founding fathers, Board of Trustees, and the Electoral Committee ably chaired by our mother, Hajiya Salamatu Abdullahi for their wisdom, dedication, and commitment in holding the Association together.
Special recognition goes to HRM King Alfred Diete-Spiff, Chief W. Kalu, Alhaji Mustapha Babura, Hon. Magaji Samke, Alhaji Musa Sule, Pa Ajuwon, Nze Aguoha, all the State and Zonal Chairmen and many others who laid and sustained this noble foundation.
I also respectfully acknowledge the noble quest, courage, and commitment of all other contestants. Their willingness to serve reflects the strength and depth of leadership within the Nigeria Association of Auctioneers.
Distinguished members of the NAA across all our group media platforms, this is a defining moment. It is time to take a stand and not sit on the fence. Lend your voices, engage constructively, and exercise your civic responsibility within our Association. Every vote truly counts.
Together, let us choose progress, unity, experience, and vision.
Vote wisely.
Vote visionary leaders
Igwe.
For: Isibor Rescue Mission Team (IRM-T)
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