By Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed
I warmly congratulate Brigadier General Sani Kukasheka Usman (rtd), mni, on attaining another remarkable milestone with the award of a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Defence and Security Studies from the prestigious and iconic Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), Kaduna.
This achievement is a fitting addition to a career defined by service, knowledge and professional excellence. He received his PhD certificate at the Academy’s 36th Convocation on September 24, 2026. Barakallah!
For those of us who have encountered General Usman beyond his impressive résumé, this accomplishment comes as no surprise. I had the privilege of attending a strategic communication training in Kigali, Rwanda, where he served as the lead facilitator. His mastery of strategic communication was evident in the depth of his presentations, his practical understanding of stakeholder perception management and, importantly, his ability to simplify complex communication issues for leaders. I left that training with a deeper appreciation of his knowledge and experience.
Indeed, his performance in Kigali gave me a clearer understanding of why his tenure as Director of Army Public Relations and Spokesman of the Nigerian Army remains highly regarded within professional communication circles. He retired voluntarily in February 2019 after reaching the highest leadership position in the Directorate of Army Public Relations. The Nigerian Army Resource Centre credits him with helping to transform the Army’s public relations practice and strategic communication.
So, retirement has certainly not retired his knowledge. Senior and junior military institutions continue to tap from his reservoir of experience. He remains active as a lecturer and resource person on leadership, crisis management, public relations and strategic communication at military institutions and professional engagements. In November 2024, for instance, he delivered lectures at the Air Force War College Nigeria on public relations, media engagement and strategic communication for military commanders.
General Usman is equally a journalist’s delight. His understanding of the media, combined with his security background, makes him a valuable voice in national conversations. He remains a regular guest on major television and radio programmes, where he discusses national security, public policy and strategic communication. What distinguishes him is his ability to approach security communication not merely from the perspective of a retired military officer, but also from that of a trained communicator who understands the importance of public confidence, credible information and responsible engagement.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, I particularly cherish the personal relationship we have built over the years. Whenever Brigadier General Usman is in Katsina, my office is usually one of his first ports of call. Sometimes, even when I am not around, he would call and say, “I am in your office; where are you?” That simple gesture speaks to the warmth and humility of a man whose accomplishments have never prevented him from maintaining genuine relationships.
The PhD is therefore more than another academic title. For General Usman, it represents the continuation of a lifelong commitment to learning, service and the sharing of knowledge.
Congratulations once again, Brigadier General Dr Sani Kukasheka Usman (rtd), mni. This is a well-earned honour and a proud milestone. May Allah increase you in knowledge, wisdom and good health, and grant you many more years of impactful service to Nigeria and humanity. Barakallah!
Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed is the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Katsina State .
