Why I consider being the first child a privilege – Bala Habule
Story by Maryam Saleh Isah
Bala Habule: Disa was born and raised in Potiskum local government area of Yobe State. He studied at the University of Maiduguri, Borno, and has a career in public service with the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC). He currently serves as the Deputy Commander and Head of Operations, Yobe State Command. In this exclusive and insightful interview with Neptune Prime’s Maryam Saleh Isah, he speaks about his childhood, the challenges of the nation in contemporary times and the general matters of life.
Neptune Prime: Can you tell us about your childhood and what life was like when you were growing up?
Bala Habule: Life was joyful and peaceful. As the firstborn in my family, I was very close to my parents and enjoyed their presence, care, and attention. I was well catered for and surrounded by love, which gave me confidence and a strong sense of belonging from an early age.
Neptune Prime: What are some of the happiest memories from your early years?
Bala Habule: One of my happiest memories is the privilege I enjoyed as the first child. I often got what I wanted, and in many ways, I was pampered. However, my parents ensured that this did not spoil my character. They trained me morally and instilled discipline in me, so in everything I did, I remained conscious of their expectations and feelings.
Neptune Prime: Were there any challenges you faced as a young person that shaped the way you see life today?
Bala Habule: The major challenge that shaped my life was the constant demand to be upright and straightforward. Standing by the truth is not always easy, but I learned early that integrity is non-negotiable. That lesson continues to guide my decisions today.
Neptune Prime: What values or principles do you think every young person should live by?
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Bala Habule: Young people must learn to be honest with themselves. They should clearly understand what they can and cannot do and be bold enough to speak the truth about it. Clarity, sincerity, and self-awareness are forms of self-respect.
Neptune Prime: What advice would you give young people about handling failure or disappointment?
Bala Habule: Both success and failure come from Allah (SWT). When Allah says “yes,” no one can stop it, and when He says “no,” no one can force it. Young people should trust Allah completely, remain patient, and understand that disappointment is part of life’s divine process.
Neptune Prime: If you could go back to your youth, what is one thing you would do differently?
Bala Habule: Honestly, there is nothing I would do differently. My life and academic journey were smooth. I am content with how my youth unfolded.
Neptune Prime: In your lifetime, what kind of leaders have inspired you the most, and why?
Bala Habule: I am inspired by leaders who possess wisdom, integrity, honesty, experience, and who are trustworthy in both words and actions. Leadership should be about character as much as authority.
Neptune Prime: What qualities do you believe good leaders should have to guide society?
Bala Habule: Good leaders must be honest, disciplined, fair, and accountable. They should lead by example and remain faithful to the trust placed on them by the people.
Neptune Prime: What life lessons have you learned that you wish more people understood?
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Bala Habule: One important lesson I have learned is that your actions do not define who you are permanently. What truly defines you is your character and consistency over time.
Neptune Prime: How do today’s leaders differ from those of your time?
Bala Habule: Many leaders today prioritise themselves and their families before the community. In the past, leaders were more community-oriented and placed collective welfare above personal gain.
Neptune Prime: How do you spend your time now, and what keeps you happy as you grow older?
Bala Habule: I enjoy my time by being productive in whatever I do. Providing for myself, my family, and contributing positively to my community gives me a deep sense of fulfillment and happiness.
Neptune Prime: How would you like to be remembered by your family and community?
Bala Habule: I would like to be remembered as a man of wisdom, integrity, honesty, and trustworthiness—a generous person who served his family and community with sincerity.
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Neptune Prime: What message would you leave for future generations?
Bala Habule: Right will always be right, even if no one practices it. Wrong will always be wrong, even if everyone accepts it. May Almighty Allah guide and protect us all. Ameen Ya Hayyu Ya Qayyum.
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