Tribute

One Year After: Remembering The Enduring Legacy Of HRH Alh. Halilu Bala Usman, Osu Ajiri Of Edegye Chiefdom

His Royal Highness, Alh. Halilu Bala Usman, the Osu Ajiri of Edegye Chiefdom, may have departed this world on May 25, 2025, but his remarkable legacy remains deeply etched in the hearts of his people and countless others whose lives he touched across Nigeria.

The news of his demise after a protracted illness threw Edegye Chiefdom into mourning. It was a painful loss not only to the traditional institution, but also to the political, educational and humanitarian landscape of Nasarawa State and beyond. One year after his transition to eternity, the memories of his selfless service, wisdom and fatherly guidance continue to resonate strongly among the people.

Alh. Halilu Bala Usman lived a life defined by service, humility and compassion. His distinguished public service career saw him occupy several strategic positions with dignity and excellence. He served as former Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, former Acting Director General of the Nigerian Ports Authority, former Deputy Governor of Plateau State, and Sarkin Fada Nasarawa of Nasarawa Emirate Council. He also served meritoriously as Acting Administrator of Mada Chiefdom, where his leadership qualities earned him admiration and respect.

He played a significant role in reuniting the Mada Chiefdom, fostering peace, unity and harmonious coexistence among the people during a challenging period in the area’s history.

Yet, beyond titles and offices, the late royal father was a man devoted to the upliftment of his people. He firmly believed that education remained the strongest tool for societal transformation. This conviction inspired him to facilitate the establishment of Al’Iman School, Edege-MBeki, as well as the siting of the Federal Government Girls Junior Secondary School in Eyenu.

His commitment to learning was not merely ceremonial. He personally inspected schools within his domain, encouraged teachers and students, and consistently championed educational advancement.

Many today owe their education and success stories to his benevolence. He paid school fees for countless students, fed and clothed the needy, sponsored vocational and academic training, and used his influence to secure appointments and opportunities for many young people. His generosity cut across ethnic, religious and social boundaries.

Understanding the importance of stability for development, he supported security personnel with operational vehicle and logistics to strengthen security operations and safeguard communities.

Politically, the late royal father remained a symbol of loyalty and ideological commitment. He was a staunch member of the defunct Social Democratic Party (SDP), and from him many people learnt the true meaning of party ideology, loyalty and political consistency. Even after becoming a traditional ruler, he maintained strong attachment to his political associates and always treated his former party members with special regard and affection.

Bala Usman He was a foundation member of the PDP and played a key role during the party’s early formation and first National Convention.

Indeed, Alh. Halilu Bala Usman was not just a royal father. He was a consummate administrator, a seasoned politician, a philanthropist and a dependable father figure to many. The number of marriages he sponsored and homes he helped establish can hardly be counted. To the orphaned and vulnerable, he became a father. To the struggling, he became a source of hope.

Personally, I cherish the many opportunities I had to interact with him. Every encounter with the late Osu Ajiri was a lesson in wisdom, humility and leadership. Whether during visits to pay royal homage or official engagements, he always had words of advice, encouragement and direction for me. His guidance was sincere, fatherly and impactful.

Today, exactly one year after his passing, the people of Edegye Chiefdom he led and the numerous communities he impacted across Nigeria continue to remember and miss him dearly. His footprints remain visible in the schools he built, the lives he transformed, the peace he nurtured and the countless acts of kindness he extended to humanity.

As we reflect on his life and legacy, we pray that Almighty Allah forgives his shortcomings, rewards his good deeds abundantly and grants his gentle soul eternal rest in Jannatul Firdaus. Ameen.

Yahaya Abdulrahman writes from Nasarawa, Nasarawa State, Nigeria