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Food for Living: The Power of Humility
By Henry Ukazu
Dear Destiny Friends,
“True Humility Is Not Thinking Less of Yourself, It’s Thinking of Yourself Less” – C. S. Lewis
One of the greatest qualities any progressive mind must have is humility. Some people think humility is old-fashioned, that when someone talks about being humble, they’re just looking for a new way to brag about themselves. In some cases, humility is seen as weakness, but, in reality, it is one of the greatest strengths a person can possess. It is a quality that allows us to be open to new ideas and perspectives; to be more forgiving and understanding of others, and to be more compassionate and empathetic.
Personally, nothing endears me so much to anyone than humility. I have attracted so much goodwill by the application of this revered quality. I have seen great people who I doubt if I can measure up to their life accomplishment, yet they are extremely humble. As a matter of fact, I have a mentor who is a sophisticated wealthy man by any measure one can imagine. This man used to be a bus conductor during his teenage years, but luck found him, and he was able to get a decent education. Today, he is one of the most revered Africans who relates with world leaders, especially with presidents of countries.
During one of our physical meetings, he told me he never forgets his humble beginnings because he knows it’s only God that has brought him that far in life. That’s humility! It is however, sad to know some people tend to forget their humble beginnings when their status begins to change. They are ingrates. They fail to understand that the higher you go in life, the more humble you should become.
Humility is not weakness, it is strength. The word humility is underrated in our society. However, great people who think out of the box have discovered the hidden power of humility and have used it to disarm people in addition to attracting opportunities.
Let’s face it, nobody likes a proud mind, but a handsome, intelligent, wealthy, and very valuable, and yet humble person, will be highly celebrated and revered.
Clive Lewis was right when he stated, humility is not weakness, rather it is thinking of oneself less. When you know who you are, you will resist the temptation of announcing yourself. This literally means, a rational being ought to continually see himself or herself as someone who doesn’t know it all, and as such opening oneself to growth opportunities of learning.
Let’s take a moment to share more insights on what humility means. True humility breeds confidence, the kind that doesn’t need to boast accomplishments. True humility allows a leader to listen to others, gather different points of view, and admit they may not have all the answers.
Servant Leadership
There’s no doubt that humility is one of a leader’s most powerful tools. It unlocks the potential of those around them, strengthens relationships, and allows people to trust and respect you.
Great and exceptional leaders are humble people. It takes humility to lead. The hallmark of a leader is applying humility. Servancy is a style of leadership that focuses on putting the needs of others before your own. This type of leadership is based on the idea that if you can help your team members succeed, they will, in turn, help you succeed. Leaders, who practice servant-Leadership are often more successful because they have a motivated team to help them achieve their goals.
Humility also allows us to build better relationships with others. When you are humble, you are less likely to be defensive or to take criticism personally. It takes humility to learn from others because it makes one more approachable and easier to work with, which can lead to better collaboration and teamwork.
Humility can lead to greater self-awareness. When you are humble, you are more likely to reflect on your own behavior, and take responsibility for your actions.
According to a research, people are more likely to succeed when they display humility because humility will make them to be modest, vulnerable, and have empathy for others in addition to having an open mind.
In any sphere of life whether family, work-related, school, personal or professional, humility if properly used can be a game changer.
Humility helps you to admit mistakes. A humble rational mind is open to feedback. It takes humility to accept constructive criticisms.
Shows gratitude: A humble person takes time to show gratitude to their team members, recognizing their hard work and contributions. They express their appreciation in a sincere and meaningful way, which helps to build a positive and motivated team culture.
Active listening: A humble leader is a good listener who gives their full attention to team members when they speak. Listening is one of the essential skills that a leader can possess. They seek to understand their perspective, validate their feelings, and respond in a way that shows they have been heard. A humble mind is someone who leads with empathy, puts the needs of their team first, and fosters a culture of trust, collaboration, and growth.
Seek Help
Humble people are not afraid to seek help. They are more likely to succeed because they aren’t afraid to ask for help. Humble leaders know that they don’t have everything figured out and that they can benefit from the expertise of others.
Humility makes you understand your strengths and weaknesses
Humble leaders are good at knowing their strengths and weaknesses. They don’t try to be something they’re not. Authenticity and honesty are key components to being an effective leader. Humble leaders know that they aren’t perfect, and that there are many things that they cannot do on their own. They also understand that they can learn from others and draw from their knowledge and experience to help them become better leaders.
In conclusion, the power of humility should not be underestimated. Whether in our personal or professional lives, being humble can lead to greater success, better relationships, self-awareness, and happiness. So, let’s embrace this quality and be proud in humility.
Henry Ukazu writes from New York. He works with the New York City Department of Correction as the Legal Coordinator. He’s a Transformative Human Capacity and Mindset coach. He is also a public speaker, youth advocate and creative writer Design Your Destiny and Unleash Your Destiny. He can be reached via info@gloemi.com
News
‘He Died a Natural Death’ – Katsina Govt Announces Death of Gen Rabe Abubakar in Kidnappers’ Captivity
A Retired Major-General and former Director of Defence Information, Rabe Abubakar, is dead.
According to the Katsina state government, Abubakar died in bandits’ captivity.
The retired major-general and his wife were abducted in May while travelling through Katsina.
On June 6, a video showing Abubakar and his wife appealing to the Katsina government for the release of detained bandits and livestock surfaced online.
A statement on Saturday by Nasiru Mu’azu, commissioner for internal security and home affairs, said Abubakar died from complications of diabetes and hypertension.
“It is with profound sadness that we confirm the General’s death while in bandits’ captivity,” the statement reads.
“Despite the relentless and concerted efforts of the State Government and various Security Agencies to secure his safe release, the situation ended in this tragedy.
“The deceased Retired General died a natural death from complications of diabetes and hypertension.
“His abduction and subsequent death are not only a loss to his family and Katsina State but a monumental loss to the entire country.
“His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Katsina State Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, PhD, CON, extends his deepest condolences to the family of the late General and the country at-large.
“The Governor has described this incident as a “dark moment” and a reminder of the urgent need for a collective and intensified front against the criminal elements threatening the peace of our communities.”
The Katsina government added that it remains committed to working with the federal government and security forces to ensure that those responsible for the heinous act are brought to justice.
“We assure the citizens of Katsina State that our resolve to eliminate banditry and ensure the safety of all residents remains unshaken,” the statement added.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved family during this difficult time. May the soul of the departed Retired Major General Rabe Abdulakdir rest in eternal peace.”
By Henry Ukazu
Dear Destiny Friends,
The power in a name, or inspiration and influence they come with, when properly triggered and applied, cannot be overestimated. Influence and name are powerful, and run pari passu. This is because in the journey of life, there are certain heights one can’t attain even with their resources. And that’s where ‘names’ and influence come in.
One might have all the grades, skills, and knowledge, but getting an opportunity might be difficult. Imagine having a good grade in school, but can’t find a commensurate job. As a matter of fact, someone with less qualification and experience might get the job simply because a man of influence endorsed their candidacy. That’s why the saying; ‘a good name is better than riches’ is tantamount to a man with access to power is more influential than a man with knowledge but no access.
For one to succeed in our contemporary society, they need a helper who could either be a mentor, benefactor, an inspiration, or someone with influence, or all in one. All these refer to one thing – name. Names are powerful and open doors. A name can serve as an inspiration which can open doors of opportunity for anyone. I remember the day one of my mentors said to me that for his name to be on my resumè, I must earn it. That’s how powerful names can be.
To further buttress how powerful a name can be, let’s consider the following – In 2018, as a budding author, I reached out to one of my mentors, Chief Dele Momodu to give me a column to write in his online newspaper which is considered one of the biggest, if not the biggest online newspaper in Nigeria. He graciously agreed, advising me to be consistent.
Guess what, since that date, I haven’t missed a week. One may be wondering how I have been consistent,; well the answer is not far fetched, I couldn’t imagine failing Chief Dele Momodu. I couldn’t imagine producing articles that are below standard. In all sincerity, assuming someone else without a big name gave me the opportunity, maybe, I wouldn’t have taken it very seriously like I did for Chief Dele Momodu. This goes to tell you names are powerful.
Can you imagine working for the President of the United States of America or Elon Musk? One will almost be perfect. The same energy and detailed attention one pays to President Trump or Elon Musk will be different if given an opportunity to work for an elected council man or a businessman. This is because one would not like to risk a lifetime opportunity to serve with a man of influence.
The importance of inspiration in the life of a progressive man cannot be overemphasized. Everyone needs inspiration. Inspiration can come from various angles. It can be from a benefactor, mentor, teacher, parent, friend, a Minister of the gospel, or even one’s child.
Let me share a personal experience I had with another of my mentors – Dr. Joe Abah. In 2025, he organized #fitseptember physical exercise where he advised his followers to do a 30 push for the month of September. Again, in January, he organized #fitjanuary and I actively participated in it, and since then I haven’t missed one single day without exercising for at least ten minutes. Why is this analysis important? The name Dr. Joe Abah is a household name in Nigeria social-political space. Assuming it was a regular person who made the announcement on X, the comment wouldn’t have attracted the kind of attention that made it go viral.
Furthermore, it is worthy of note that there are five kinds of authority when it comes to principle of power in a name. They are; Revealed knowledge, empirical knowledge, rational knowledge, intuitive knowledge and authoritative knowledge. The focus here is on authoritative knowledge.
One may be wondering what authoritative knowledge is. This is a kind of knowledge reserved for those who have expertise on a particular issue or subject matter expert. When such a person speaks, their words are like law.
Let’s talk about men of influence. Men of influence are priceless. According to Apostle Joshua Selman, there are four kinds of destiny helpers: Divine Connectors, Men of Influence, Gifted People, and Burden Bearers. For the sake of this article, I will focus on men of influence. These are gatekeepers, mentors, or established experts with high credibility. Their endorsement or advocacy can override limitations, grant you access to closed doors, and elevate your trajectory.
In summary, honor men, but fear God because men are vessels God uses to bless people and humanity.
Henry Ukazu writes from New York. He works with the New York City Department of Correction as the Legal Coordinator. He’s the founder of Gloemi. He’s a Transformative Human Capacity and Mindset coach. He is also a public speaker, youth advocate, creative writer and author of Design Your Destiny Design and Unleash Your Destiny . He can be reached via info@gloemi.com
The Senate, on Thursday, directed the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies to intensify efforts to track, identify and arrest bandits and terrorists, who openly flaunt their activities and wealth on social media platforms.
The upper chamber said the growing trend of criminal groups operating openly online and displaying proceeds of crime without fear of arrest poses a serious threat to national security and undermines public confidence in the authority of the State.
The resolution followed a debate on a motion sponsored by Senator Sunday Karimi (Kogi West) on the worsening security situation in Kogi West Senatorial District and other parts of the country.
Contributing to the debate, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (Kogi Central) expressed concern over what she described as the increasing boldness of bandits and terrorists, alleging that some criminal groups now use social media platforms to showcase their operations and distribute large sums of money.
According to her, suspected bandits recently conducted a giveaway on TikTok, allegedly distributing more than N100 million within 30 minutes through their social media accounts.
She argued that such activities provide security agencies with sufficient digital footprints and intelligence leads to identify and apprehend the perpetrators.
“Bandits and terrorists who carry out these activities live on their social media handles,” Akpoti-Uduaghan said.
“Two days ago on TikTok, bandits conducted a giveaway, distributing over N100 million within the space of 30 minutes through their social media handles.
“I wonder why the Cybercrime Unit and the Police Force generally cannot track these activities and apprehend them since they are on social media.”
Her proposal that the Nigerian Police Force National Cybercrime Centre and other relevant agencies should intensify surveillance of social media platforms and prosecute criminals who openly advertise their activities online received overwhelming support from lawmakers and was seconded by Senator Osita Ngwu (Enugu West).
Responding, Senate President Godswill Akpabio condemned the public display of criminal exploits and huge sums of money on social media, describing it as a direct challenge to the authority of government and security institutions.
“The DSS should be able to track their movements and arrest them because this is a show of impunity, as if there is no law at all,” Akpabio said.
He noted that the online display of cash and criminal activities was designed to ridicule government efforts and create the impression that security agencies were powerless.
“I do not see why we should not have control over the social media space. That idea of showing themselves, showing the cash collected and displaying it is a way of challenging government,” he added.
Akpabio urged heads of security agencies to treat the issue as a major national security concern and take immediate action against those involved.
He further warned that the Senate would demand explanations from relevant authorities whenever individuals who openly reveal their identities and activities online are not apprehended.
The debate arose from Senator Karimi’s motion drawing attention to the escalating wave of terrorist attacks, kidnappings and killings across communities in Kogi West Senatorial District.
Karimi lamented that armed groups had turned several communities into theatres of violence, forcing residents to flee their homes while disrupting economic, social and educational activities.
He cited the recent attack on Iluke-Bunu in Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area, where gunmen reportedly invaded a secondary school and attempted to abduct students writing the Senior Secondary School Certificate Examination.
According to him, the attack claimed the lives of the school’s vice principal, a teacher and another resident.
The senator also recounted a series of kidnappings and killings across Kabba/Bunu, Ijumu, Yagba West, Lokoja and Kogi local government areas, warning that insecurity in the district was worsening and required urgent intervention.
Following deliberations, the Senate adopted a series of resolutions aimed at tackling the deteriorating security situation across the country.
The lawmakers called on President Bola Tinubu, the Inspector-General of Police and the National Assembly to urgently work towards establishing an appropriate legal framework for the creation of state police.
The Senate also urged the Federal government and the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to strengthen the implementation of cashless transaction policies as part of efforts to curb ransom payments and other criminal financial activities.
It further called on the Federal Ministry of Interior and the Nigerian Immigration Service to tighten border security and surveillance to stem the influx of arms and the movement of terrorists and other criminal elements into the country.
The upper chamber equally advised State governments against negotiating or entering peace agreements with terrorists and armed bandits, maintaining that such arrangements have often failed to produce lasting solutions and, in some cases, emboldened criminal groups.
