A Personal Encounter With a King Whose Wisdom, Simplicity and Humanity Left a Lasting Impression
AWC COMMENTARY, SEPTEMBER 2026
The African Writers Centre has expressed deep sadness over the passing of the Emir of Gumel, Alhaji Dr. Ahmed Muhammad Sani II, CON, who died on Thursday, September 3, 2026, in Cairo, Egypt, after an illustrious reign spanning 46 years.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has also mourned the revered monarch, describing his 46-year reign as a remarkable era and celebrating his contributions to education, peace, development, culture and national cohesion.
For the Director General of the African Writers Centre, however, the passing of the Emir carries a deeply personal memory dating back to 1999, when he served his compulsory National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) programme in Gumel Emirate, Jigawa State.
During the orientation period, the late Emir personally came to address and encourage the corps members. It was an encounter that left a lasting impression on the young AWC Director General.
In an interesting coincidence, the Director General was chosen to deliver the vote of thanks on behalf of the corps members, formally expressing their appreciation to the Emir for taking time to visit them, speak to them and inspire them.
Decades later, that encounter remains vividly remembered.
The late Emir was described as an exceptionally educative, enlightening and engaging personality—a traditional ruler who combined the dignity of his office with remarkable simplicity and warmth.
His accommodating nature was particularly striking. Visitors to Gumel found in him a monarch who was approachable, receptive and genuinely interested in people. Even within the traditional grandeur of his palace, he maintained a simplicity that made people feel welcomed and respected.
For the African Writers Centre, the encounter in 1999 was more than a ceremonial visit by a traditional ruler. It was an opportunity to witness firsthand the character of a monarch who understood the importance of knowledge, youth development, dialogue, culture and service to humanity.
The Centre joins the Emirate of Gumel, the Government and people of Jigawa State, the royal family and the entire Nigerian traditional institution in mourning a distinguished monarch whose 46-year reign became an important chapter in the history of Gumel and Northern Nigeria.
The African Writers Centre believes that while the throne of Gumel has lost a remarkable custodian, the memories of his wisdom, humility, hospitality and service will continue to live in the hearts of the many people whose lives he touched.
“For me personally, the Emir of Gumel was not merely a monarch I read about. I met him in 1999. I listened to him speak to young Nigerians preparing for national service, and I had the privilege of thanking him on behalf of the corps members. His simplicity, wisdom and receptiveness made that encounter unforgettable.”
The African Writers Centre extends its deepest condolences to the Gumel Emirate, the royal family and the people of Jigawa State.
Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji’un.
May Allah forgive the shortcomings of the late Emir, accept his good deeds, illuminate and widen his grave, grant him Jannatul Firdaus, and grant the royal family, the Gumel Emirate and all who mourn him the sabr (patience and fortitude) to bear this great loss.
May his noble soul rest in eternal peace. Ameen.
— African Writers Centre (AWC)
