A conversation with PANS-BUK’s calm, structured, and highly respected Secretary General—fondly called Commander—on leadership, discipline, and the power of service.
Before every successful administration, there’s always that one person holding the structure together, the bridge between information and action, the coordinator behind the scenes, the keeper of order. In PANS-BUK, that role belongs to one man everyone fondly calls Commander.
Firm, organized, calm under pressure, and always a step ahead, Commander has become the backbone of communication, documentation, and coordination within the association. Today, we sat with him for a conversation that reveals the mind behind the minutes, and the leader behind the title.
THE INTERVIEW
1. Can you introduce yourself; your name, background, and where you’re from?
My name is Murtala Saleh Ayuba, from Garko Local Government, Kano State. I began my education at Rariya Primary School, continued at Unity Boys College GSS Karaye, and completed my senior secondary education at Sani Bello Science College Dawakin Kudu, where I was actively involved in various leadership roles. I am currently a PharmD student at Bayero University Kano. These stages of my educational journey shaped my discipline, values, and passion for service.
2. Growing up, what experiences shaped the values you carry into your work today?
Growing up, I was always involved in school clubs and leadership activities. Those experiences taught me discipline, responsibility, and the importance of teamwork. I learned early that when people trust you with responsibility, you must never take it lightly.
3. What drew you into studying Pharmacy and what keeps you motivated?
My interest in Pharmacy came from a desire to serve society through healthcare. I loved science from a young age, and Pharmacy gave me the opportunity to combine that passion with real impact. What keeps me motivated is the knowledge that pharmacists play a critical role in patient care and public health.
4. How has your experience been as a Pharmacy student at BUK?
It has been both challenging and rewarding. BUK provides a strong academic environment and the lecturers are committed to bringing out the best in us. The workload is heavy, but it has shaped me into a more disciplined student.
5. Which part of the academic journey is most rewarding, and what challenges helped you grow?
The most rewarding part is the feeling of progress—understanding complex topics that once looked impossible. The challenges, especially tight schedules and demanding courses, pushed me to develop better time management and resilience.
6. Which area of Pharmacy fascinates you the most, and has that interest evolved?
I’m particularly fascinated by Public Health Pharmacy and Antimicrobial Stewardship. Over time, my interest deepened as I became more involved in AMR advocacy and community health education.
7. How do you balance academics, leadership, and personal life?
For me, planning is everything. I prioritize tasks, break them into smaller steps, and avoid procrastination. I also remind myself to take breaks when needed because burnout doesn’t help anyone.
8. What motivated you to take up the role of Secretary General?
I have always enjoyed organizing, coordinating, and helping people stay informed. Becoming Secretary General felt like a natural way to contribute to PANS-BUK in a meaningful way.
9. How would you describe your experience so far... what has leadership taught you?
It has been a fulfilling journey. I’ve learned patience, diplomacy, and how to listen to people with different perspectives. Leadership is not about giving instructions; it’s about service and understanding.
10. What has been your biggest challenge in managing the responsibilities of the office?
The biggest challenge is ensuring timely communication in a busy academic environment. People have different schedules, so coordinating effectively requires consistency and flexibility.
11. What strategies help you maintain effective communication and organization within PANS-BUK?
I rely on structured documentation, proper planning, regular updates, and making sure every member has access to needed information. Clear communication is something I always prioritize.
12. How have you worked with other executives to ensure smooth running of the association?
We maintain a spirit of teamwork. Everyone brings unique strengths, and we complement one another. Regular meetings and honest communication have helped us stay united.
13. What areas do you still hope to strengthen before the end of your tenure?
I hope to strengthen our documentation culture and ensure smoother transitions for future administrations. Good records make life easier for those coming behind us.
14. If you could make one lasting change in PANS-BUK operations, what would it be?
I would love to see a more digitalized system for communication, archiving documents, and coordinating activities. It will make the association more efficient.
15. How do you relax or recharge?
I enjoy taking quiet moments, listening to motivating talks, or spending time with friends. Sometimes, a simple walk is enough to clear my head.
16. Do you have any hobbies or hidden talents?
I enjoy reading, especially about leadership and personal development. I also like organizing events; it’s something I naturally enjoy.
17. Who inspires you most and why?
I draw inspiration from people who lead with humility and knowledge. I admire leaders who balance faith, professionalism, and service to humanity.
18. What’s your go-to mood lifter?
Honestly, good food and motivational talks always lift my mood.
19. What do you hope to accomplish before your tenure ends?
I hope to conclude all ongoing projects, improve our documentation system, and leave behind a legacy of effective communication and teamwork.
20. How has being Secretary General prepared you for future leadership roles?
The role has strengthened my communication skills, decision-making, and ability to manage people. These are qualities that will help me anywhere professionally or in leadership.
21. What advice would you give to pharmacy students aspiring to leadership?
Leadership is service. Start with a genuine intention to help people. Be humble, be organized, and don’t be afraid to learn. Most importantly, balance leadership with academics, because both define your future.
CONCLUSION
In every administration, there are voices you hear and faces you see — and then there are pillars working steadily behind the scenes. Commander embodies the latter: calm, relentless, organized, and deeply dedicated to service.
His journey reflects the essence of leadership, not in titles or authority, but in responsibility, humility, and commitment to the growth of others. As his tenure continues, one thing is clear: PANS-BUK runs smoother because Commander is behind the wheel.
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