How I Met Ali Mamman Shuwa Through My Passion for Journalism and Radio

By: Adamu Aliyu Ngulde

MAIDUGURI, Nigeria — Long before I ever set foot in a newsroom, I was just a boy in northeastern Nigeria, glued to a small radio set. From the crackling frequencies of local stations in Maiduguri to the polished broadcasts of the BBC and Voice of America, I spent hours listening, fascinated by the way voices carried news, music, and the world beyond my troubled hometown.

That passion for listening — and later reporting — eventually led me to cross paths with one of the most respected voices in Borno State broadcasting: Alhaji Ali Mamman Shuwa, the man who has now risen to become the new General Manager of Borno Radio Television (BRTV).

A Childhood Inspired by Radio

Growing up in a region defined by insurgency and hardship, the radio was more than just a companion — it was a lifeline. I would sit with neighbors and elders as they tuned in to hear updates about the world, and I began to dream of being the one behind the microphone.

It was during this time that I first heard the voice of Ali Mamman Shuwa on BRTV. His delivery was calm, authoritative, and deeply connected to the people. To me, he was more than just a broadcaster; he was a role model who proved that radio could serve as both education and empowerment.

Meeting a Mentor

Years later, when I began working at BRTV myself, I finally met the man whose voice had guided my early fascination with journalism. By then, Shuwa had already built a reputation as one of the station’s most experienced hands, serving in key editorial and managerial positions.

Our first conversation was brief but unforgettable. I told him how I had grown up listening to his programs, and he smiled, offering encouragement that still drives me today: “Journalism is not just about speaking; it’s about giving voice to those who cannot be heard.”

A Career of Dedication

Ali Mamman Shuwa’s career spans more than three decades. At BRTV, he has anchored news, supervised programs, and mentored countless young journalists, many of whom now work in national and international outlets. His deep knowledge of Borno’s communities and his ability to connect with ordinary listeners have made him a respected figure across the region.

Now, as he assumes the role of General Manager, Shuwa carries the responsibility of leading one of Nigeria’s most important state-owned broadcasters at a time when accurate reporting from conflict-affected regions is more critical than ever.

Radio as a Lifeline

For millions in Borno State, radio remains the most reliable source of information in a region where internet access is patchy and security challenges disrupt daily life. Under Shuwa’s leadership, BRTV is expected to continue bridging the gap between authorities and citizens, while also highlighting the stories of resilience and survival that often go unheard.

A Personal Reflection

For me, meeting Shuwa was not just about crossing paths with a senior colleague — it was about reconnecting with the dream that started with a small radio set. His career is proof that journalism matters, especially in places where conflict and crisis dominate daily life.

As he steps into his new role, I carry with me the lessons from both listening to and learning from him: that journalism, at its core, is about service, truth, and community.