By Iliya Kure
The life of Mallam Umaru Lakorok—fondly known as Baba Umaru Lakorok—stands as a testament to the enduring power of education, faith, and selfless service. He was a teacher by calling, a leader by example, and a father figure whose influence extended far beyond his immediate family and community.
Born on 10 October 1939 in Banganje District of Billiri Local Government Area, in present-day Gombe State, Baba Umaru emerged from humble beginnings to become a respected educationist and traditional ruler. His early life was marked by hardship, having lost his father at a young age. He was raised by his aunt, Lamonje Mati, in Kalmai, where he began the journey that would define his life—one rooted in learning, discipline, and resilience.
A defining moment came when an elder of his clan, the late Tanko, encouraged him to pursue formal education. That advice planted a seed that blossomed into a lifelong devotion to teaching. From Antawalam Primary School to Billiri Primary School, and later to Teachers’ College, Kaltungo, Baba Umaru steadily built his academic foundation. He went on to earn Teachers’ Grade III and II certificates and, decades later, a National Certificate in Education (NCE) from the Federal College of Education (Technical), Gombe, in 1987—demonstrating his belief in lifelong learning.
Baba Umaru Lakorok devoted his entire working life to education. He began as a pupil teacher at SIM Primary School, Billiri, and later served in Lalaipido, where he forged deep and lasting bonds with the community. His most impactful years were spent at Demonstration Primary School (now Nassarawa Primary School), Kaltungo, where he served as headmaster during what many regard as Nigeria’s golden era of public education. Known for his punctuality, discipline, and dedication, he shaped generations of pupils and mentored young teachers with quiet authority and compassion.
His career later took him into supervisory roles in Billiri Local Government Area and to Government Girls Secondary School, Yana, in Bauchi State. He retired in 1997 from Government Science Secondary School, Billiri, leaving behind a legacy of professionalism and moral uprightness in the education sector.
Faith was central to Baba Umaru’s life. Baptised in 1962 at Teachers’ College, Kaltungo, he remained a committed member of the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) throughout his life and served for many years as an elder at ECWA Church, Termana. His faith informed his values, leadership style, and approach to community life.
In 1964, he married the late Mrs Dinah Umaru Lakorok (née Alim Laukeltu). Together, they built a home defined by love, hospitality, and service. Their marriage was blessed with six children, and their household became a refuge not only for family but also for relatives, friends, and those in need of guidance. Baba Umaru was a devoted husband, a caring father, and a proud grandfather to twelve grandchildren, all of whom carry forward his values.
His commitment to service did not end with retirement. In recognition of his integrity and standing in the community, the Government of Gombe State appointed him Village Head of Sabon Layi in Banganje District on 20 May 2005. He served with humility and wisdom, overseeing 23 Jauro and fostering peace, unity, and cooperation among his people. He was not merely a traditional ruler but a mentor, mediator, and unifying force. Through his leadership, the community undertook self-help development initiatives, including forestry projects and other grassroots efforts.
Mallam Umaru Lakorok’s life was one of quiet impact. He sought no acclaim, yet earned respect wherever he lived and served—from Lalaipido to Kaltungo and across Tangale land. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched: the pupils he taught, the teachers he mentored, the community he united, and the family he raised.
As family, friends, and communities reflect on his life, Baba Umaru Lakorok will be remembered as a man of principle, faith, and unwavering service—a teacher who never stopped teaching, and a leader who led by example. May his legacy continue to inspire generations to come.
