ABOUT THIS BOOK
Description
Evening in Kofar Jange
It was a calm Sunday evening on July 6th, 1999, in the historic neighborhood of Kofar Jange, Zamfara, Nigeria. A group of vibrant young men had gathered in their usual hangout across from an iconic home — the famed “Gidan Nahuche.” This wasn’t an ordinary house. It belonged to the late Alhaji Mustapha Bilyamin Nahuche, a highly respected statesman, academic, and community figure in Zamfara.
This particular day, the youth weren’t just passing time. They awaited someone special — Habibu Mustapha Bilyamin Nahuche, the only son of the house, and their role model.
The House of Legacy – Gidan Nahuche
This beautifully renovated colonial house stood as a monument to its past. The gold-lettered sign "Gidan Nahuche" above its entrance carried weight. It symbolized integrity, history, and community service.
Only one woman had lived as the wife in that house — Hajiya Kaltume, and she bore just two children with her late husband: Badiyya, who now lived in Kaduna with four children, and the prominent Habibu, the heir to both name and legacy.
The Waiting Crowd
From morning till dusk, the youth of the area waited. They knew Habibu had arrived earlier that day at his GRA residence. It was customary for him to visit his mother every time he returned to Zamfara, regardless of how late it was.
They weren’t just drawn to him for his wealth or influence. He was one of the few who embodied humility, intellect, and support for the youth. Though not a politician like his father, Habibu was a business mogul with national connections, always ready to support his community — especially job seekers and young entrepreneurs.
BBC Hausa Broadcast: A Star is Heard
As the sun began to set, one of the young men turned on the radio. The familiar jingle of BBC Hausa’s "Domin Matasa" aired, and to their amazement, the guest of the week was none other than Habibu Nahuche himself.
“Assalamu alaikum, my name is Habibu Mustapha Nahuche,” came his deep, confident voice with a distinct Bazamfari accent. He shared how he studied locally in Nahuche before earning a PTDF scholarship to Germany, where he studied Hotel Administration at the University of Cologne.
He earned a master’s degree and returned to Nigeria in 2000. He worked with Nicon Noga before establishing Nahuche Hotels, now a group spread across major cities in Nigeria.
The Question of Marriage
BBC interviewer Abdulhadi Taheer asked him about his personal life. Habibu replied subtly, “I have been married before. I have a child.” When pressed for clarity, he responded with emotional restraint, “Interpret it how you wish — it’s correct either way.”
It was clear the question had reopened old emotional wounds, but Habibu held his composure.
The Secret of His Success
Abdulhadi moved to the focus of the interview — what made Nahuche Hotels successful?
Habibu replied firmly:
“Excellent Service Delivery.”
He emphasized discipline, honesty, and continuous innovation in business as key principles. Habibu encouraged youth to respect every profit, no matter how small, and to explore modern business theory and technology.
Where is Nahuche?
The interviewer noted that many Nigerians, outside Zamfara, were unaware of the town "Nahuche." Habibu dove into a historical tale.
Nahuche, a town in Bungudu Local Government Area, had once been ravaged by war. A legendary warrior from Katsina named Juli helped defeat its enemies and was rewarded with land and the noble title “Uban Dawaki.” His descendants remained, intermarried with locals, and produced prominent families like the Nahuches.
Final Words to the Youth
In closing, Habibu gave a heartfelt message:
“Business without integrity has no future. Avoid greedy profits. Focus on innovation and long-term value. Don’t underestimate small beginnings.”
A Hero’s Welcome
As the radio show ended, the young men cheered with joy. Just then, a sleek Porsche cruised into the street. It was him — Habibu Nahuche, dressed simply in traditional white, exuding charisma and humility.
He greeted each youth one by one with genuine warmth and offered his usual financial support without fanfare. Afterward, he entered his family home, still glowing from the encounter with the youth.
Inside the Home of Legacy
Inside, his mother Hajiya Kaltume was reclining on a cushion, listening to the same radio broadcast. As he entered with a smile, she turned off the radio and welcomed him with her own familiar humor.
"Habibu, you should’ve come tomorrow morning to rest first. Since those boys saw you, they won’t let you breathe."
Despite her playful scolding, it was evident she was proud. Her son had not only upheld the family name but had become the hope and heartbeat of his generation.
Legacy Lives On
Habibu’s father, Alhaji Mustapha Bilyamin Nahuche, had held many political offices: local chairman, senator, and federal lawmaker. He was remembered for his integrity and leadership.
Now, his son continued that legacy — not in politics, but in business, community development, and youth empowerment. Habibu Nahuche was more than a name. He was a symbol — a living inspiration to the youth of Zamfara and beyond.
Closing Reflections
“Allah ya bar mana Nahuche,” they whispered in unison as he disappeared inside.
And truly, in a land thirsting for hope, Habibu Nahuche was a fountain.
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