Th e union of a theorist, an organizer and a leader in one man is the rarest phenomenon on this earth, therein consist greatness”. Since the beginning of social dynamism of humanity, provisions have been carefully structured in order to recognize and award those whose performance aff ected mankind and changed communities. Unfortunately, there is vast number of remarkable men and women who have carved a niche for themselves through personal and offi cial interventions, but these people are rarely recognized and celebrated.
Some refuse to make headlines while some either by omission or commission have been sidelined; Sir Joseph Ari, Director General/ Chief Executive Offi cer, Industrial Training Fund, ITF, is in this category of personalities. Joseph Ari might not been heard or seen on the path of those recognized and awarded, but deep down Ari has achieved and accomplished remarkable feats in every responsibilities he found himself. Remarkably, Joseph Ari faced the challenges he met with equal prowess and patriotism. He thinks outside the box to be able to turnaround things positively. Th e scattered structures he met at ITF can only be imagined than said.
Th e dilapidated structures all over the nation were refurbished, renovated while state-of-the-art furniture were put in place. In line with the agency’s mandate, the DG initiated an idea for youth empowerment and self-reliance. Present statistics indicate that over forty thousand youth have been trained in various trades and gainful skills acquisition. Th is positions them for self-reliance and the utilization of their Godgiven talents to promote the Federal Government’s vision of self-reliance and job creation throughout the nation.
It is also revealing that before Ari’s appointment, the federal government had procured some veritable items and equipment. But such equipment were not put to use. However, on the appointment of Ari, the equipment were immediately deployed to serve their purposes. In spite of the paucity of funds, Ari manages to keep the system moving. Yet, in all of these momentous achievements, he is not recognized. Th at is why we are taking the bull by the horn to blow the trumpet of his accomplishments across the nation. He exhibited tact, wit and sagacity in his delivery. Joseph Ari has come, he has seen and has conquered; he has made himself relevant and his name will be mentioned in the history books yet to be written.
Th e DG of ITF since his appointment has redefi ned the agency’s concept, ideas and structures with astute dynamism. He revived the once moribund and residue ITF. Germane to these, Ari combined exceptional intellect and vision upon which the agency was founded- to create changes and innovation. With every sense of modesty, this piece is not in any way bearing the narrative of politics. It was compelled by the candour, patriotism and passion he brought to bear in the discharge of his responsibilities. Yet Joseph Ari has never been mentioned in any tabloid in spite of his progressive ideals and pragmatic initiatives through his tireless and audacious dynamism.
Ibrahim Daura and Lukman Ibrahim, Buhari/Osinbajo Social Support Group
