By joshua Rufus Obafemi Bids Dr. Mbashir Lanre Farewell, Recalls Mentor’s Enduring Impact
***Former NALISS President, KSP Chapter, Mourns University Librarian as Teacher, Mentor and Father Figure
The Personal Assistant to the Governor of Kogi State on Ministry of Education and former President of the National Association of Library and Information Science Students (NALISS), Kogi State Polytechnic Chapter, Comr. Rotr. Obafemi Adekunle Rufus, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Dr. Mbashir Abdulateef Lanre, the University Librarian of Kogi State University, Kabba.
In a condolence message, Obafemi described the late Dr. Mbashir as more than a lecturer during his Polytechnic years, recalling him as a mentor, teacher, adviser, role model and guardian whose influence left an indelible mark on his academic and personal development.
According to him, Dr. Mbashir’s words of encouragement, wisdom, guidance and genuine concern for the growth and success of his students distinguished him as an exceptional scholar and a father figure to many.
He noted that the deceased possessed a rare ability to inspire students and colleagues to pursue excellence, remain focused on their aspirations and contribute meaningfully to the academic and library profession.
Obafemi said the death of Dr. Mbashir was not only a personal loss to him but also a significant loss to the academic community, library profession, colleagues, students, family and all who encountered his remarkable personality.
While acknowledging that words were inadequate to capture the depth of the loss, he expressed gratitude for the privilege of being taught, mentored and guided by the late scholar.
“Dr. Mbashir Abdulateef Lanre, your legacy will continue to live on through the lives you touched and the knowledge you imparted,” he stated.
Obafemi prayed to Almighty Allah to forgive the shortcomings of the deceased, grant him Al-Jannatul Firdaus, and give his family, colleagues, students and loved ones the strength to bear the irreparable loss.
He concluded: “Rest in Perfect Peace, Sir. Rest in Peace, my Teacher, Mentor, Adviser, Role Model and Guardian.”
Signed:
Comr. Rotr. Obafemi Adekunle Rufus
NALISS President, 2013/2014