There are moments in life when joy arrives quietly, then suddenly overwhelms the heart. Such was my moment when I came across “How I returned from the gate of the other world (1)” by Hassan Gimba. Before I could finish the opening paragraphs, I knew this was not just another column, it was a return. A return to life. A return to voice. A return to us.
I have known Dr Hassan Gimba from time immemorial, dating back to my days as a primary school pupil. But it was in my adolescence that I came closer to him and in that closeness, I encountered not just a man, but a rare personality; resourceful, generous and deeply inspiring. He is the kind of person whose company people long for, not out of obligation, but out of genuine admiration. In my own journey, he is more than a mentor, he is a turning point.
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It was through his encouragement and motivation that I discovered my writing ability. What began as a spark under his guidance has today grown into a path, with dozens of published articles across newspapers. He gave me my first platform, publishing my work in Neptune Prime, where he serves as founder, publisher, and Editor-in-Chief. That singular act of belief in a young and novice writer is something I carry with enduring gratitude, perhaps a story for another day.
Then came a period that tested hearts.
In November 2025, news of his ill health spread and like many others, I felt compelled to visit. When I reached out, he graciously asked me to come early, as he was preparing to travel. On Friday, 28th November, I journeyed to Abuja and spent three days in his home. The warmth of the reception, the generosity, the kindness; these are memories that remain deeply etched in my heart. We parted ways on Monday, 2nd December and by the next day, he had travelled to Saudi Arabia.
What followed was a season of anxious waiting.
Our communication continued for a while, then suddenly ceased. Calls no longer went through. Concerned, I reached out to his son, Barrister Gimba, who assured me that he was getting better, but added that he was in the Intensive Care Unit. That moment was a shock, one that stirred not panic, but prayer. I held on to hope and like many others, I turned to Allah, trusting in His mercy.
Even in his absence, his presence lingered.
Between 20th and 30th April 2026, while in Abuja for official duties, I felt an obligation to visit his office at Yobe Investment House, beside the Federal Ministry of Finance in the Central Business District. If I could not see him, I would at least stand where his work continued. I met with members of his team; dedicated individuals keeping the engine running. We spoke about the newspaper, about standards, about continuity. It was a quiet but meaningful visit, an affirmation that his legacy was still alive, even as we awaited his return.
Then came the moment.
Seated in the comfort of my room, scrolling through my messages, I saw the title: “How I returned from the gate of the other world (1).” I paused. Opened it. Read the first lines. And in that instant, my heart knew what my mind was still confirming he was back.
Alhamdulillah.
No announcement could have been more powerful. No message more reassuring. The pen had spoken and in its voice was life, strength and gratitude.
That article was not just a narrative; it was a testimony. A bridge between a difficult past and a hopeful present. It carried the weight of experience and the light of survival. For those of us who know him, who have learned from him, who have been shaped by his words, it was a moment of collective relief and celebration.
Dr Hassan Gimba is not just a columnist whose works traverse multiple newspapers across the world. He is a builder of minds, a nurturer of talent and a voice that has, for years, enriched public discourse. His absence was felt, but his return is deeply cherished.
Today, I write not merely to acknowledge his article, but to welcome him back warmly, joyfully and prayerfully.
Welcome back to life.
Welcome back to strength.
Welcome back to the arena of writing where your voice continues to matter.
May Allah (SWT), in His infinite mercy, perfect your healing, strengthen your body and elevate your pen to even greater heights. May your return remind us all that sometimes, after standing at the edge of the other world, one comes back not just to live but to inspire more deeply than ever before.
Welcome back, Baba. We missed you. And we thank Allah for you.
Yusuf Alhaji Lawan writes from Hausawa Asibiti Ward, Potiskum, Yobe State. He can be reached via nasidi30@gmail.com.