Borno Loses Foremost Educationist: Tribute to Alhaji Barma Kachalla, Former Executive Secretar, Borno Primary Education Board

By Zannah Ibrahim Mustapha
Publisher
Kanempress Digital Hub
31st May 2024

Borno State mourns the loss of a towering figure in education, Alhaji Barma Kachalla, the former Executive Secretary of the Borno State Primary Education Board (Present Borno State Universal Basic Education Board), he passed on at the age of 78.

A revered educationist trained in the United Kingdom, Alhaji Barma Kachalla was an embodiment of excellence and a pillar in the educational community.

He passed away on Thursday evening at the National Hospital in Abuja, leaving behind a legacy that will be remembered for generations. His burial took place on Friday at Gwange Graveyard in Maiduguri, following a solemn prayer at Al-Ansar Central Jumma’at Mosque in GRA Maiduguri.

The news of his passing has cast a shadow over Borno, a state that deeply values the contributions of its educators.

Alhaji Barma Kachalla was more than an educationist; he was a paragon of discipline, charisma, and courageous leader. His journey in the field of education saw him serve as an Education Secretary in several local government areas, including Damasak, Kukawa, Ngala, Biu, and Bama. His dedication and relentless pursuit of educational excellence led him to become the Executive Secretary of the Borno State Primary Education Board, where he worked alongside the late Alhaji Kaderi Beneshikh, the Executive Chairman at the time.

During his tenure as Executive Secretary, Alhaji Kachalla implemented significant reforms that transformed primary education in Borno State and employed many people in to the education sector. His efforts to enhance educational standards and access were widely recognized, and his leadership style was both inclusive and inspiring. He was known for his strong commitment to the betterment of education and his fearless approach to tackling challenges.

Alhaji Barma Kachalla leaves behind a loving family who will continue his legacy. He is survived by his devoted wife, children, and grandchildren, including Hajja Yagana Kachalla, Alhaji Ballama Barma, DPM of Monguno Local Government Area, Alhaji Goni Barma, Salcon Group Manager, Abuja, Hajja Fatima Barma (Yakura), wife of the former Commissioner of Religious Affairs, Mustapha Barma, of the Federal Polytechnic Kontogora, Niger State; Ishaka Barma of the Civil Defence Corps; and Zannah Yahaya Barma. His legacy also extends to numerous grandchildren who will carry forward his values and dedication to education.

Among his notable relatives are former First Lady of Nigeria, Hajja Inna Maryam Abatcha; Dr. Kachalla Grema Kyari, Kachalla Aji Bazam of Bama Emirate, Ibrahim Saleh RN of the National Hospital Abuja; Alhaji Umar Mustapha, Senior Planning Officer LEA Bama; Zannah Ibrahim Mustapha of Voice of Nigeria Broadcasting House Ikoyi, Lagos; and founder/CEO of Kanempress Digital Hub, Mai Ngalama, Muhammad Kaumi, Baba Abdu Mala, reflect the esteemed lineage and impactful legacy of Alhaji Barma Kachalla.

His contemporaries, include elder statesman Alhaji Kaumi Abba Kyari, the Ibrahim Wadaima of Bama Emirate, Alhaji Yarema Bukar, the late Shehu of Dikwa, HRH Alhaji Shehu Muhammad and the late Alhaji Lawan Gulumba among others.

Alhaji Barma Kachalla’s life was a indication to the power of education and the profound difference one dedicated individual can make. His fearless leadership, disciplined approach, and strong commitment to excellence have left an indelible mark on the educational landscape of Borno State.

As we bid farewell to this remarkable figure, we are reminded of his invaluable contributions and the enduring legacy he leaves behind. His spirit and dedication will continue to inspire and guide us in the pursuit of educational excellence. May his soul rest in eternal peace.