By Usman Binji
The news of Garba’s passing on October 4, 2025, sent shockwaves through the media community and the palace circle. For decades, Garba had been the official cameraman of the Sultan, faithfully capturing the journey of leadership, tradition, and faith across generations.
His quiet dedication and professionalism had made him an invisible yet ever-present figure, ensuring that the image of the Sultan and the message of peace, unity, and faith reached millions with authenticity.
Garba’s remarkable career spanned decades, during which he served under four revered Sultans: His Eminence Sultan Abubakar III, Sultan Ibrahim Dasuki, Sultan Muhammadu Maccido, and the current Sultan, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar,
Through his work with the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), Garba had become an integral part of the palace’s media team, documenting every royal engagement, public address, and cultural ceremony with precision and care.
Behind the lens, Garba was a master of his craft. His steady hands and professional eye had captured some of the most iconic moments in the Sultan’s reign. From the grandeur of the Eid-al-Fitr celebrations to the solemnity of the Ramadan prayers, Garba’s camera had been there to tell the story.
His photographs had not only documented history but had also helped to shape the public’s perception of the Sultan and the palace.
Garba’s legacy extends far beyond his remarkable body of work. He had inspired a generation of photographers and journalists, showing them the importance of dedication, hard work, and attention to detail.
His unassuming nature and willingness to learn had earned him the respect of his colleagues and the admiration of his peers.
As the media community and the palace circle mourn the loss of Garba, they also celebrate his life and legacy. His contributions to the documentation of the Sultan’s reign will never be forgotten. Garba may have been a man behind the lens, but his impact on the world will be felt for generations to come.
In a tribute to Garba, Usman Mohammed Binji, Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Sokoto State Council, described him as “a lens that told the Sultan’s story.” Binji praised Garba’s dedication and professionalism, saying that he had “faithfully captured the journey of leadership, tradition, and faith across generations.”
As the world says goodbye to Garba, it is clear that his legacy will live on. His photographs will continue to tell the story of the Sultan’s reign, inspiring future generations to learn from the past and build a better future. Garba may be gone, but his impact on the world will never be forgotten.
Usman Mohammed Binji is the chairman of Nigerian Union of Journalists, Sokoto state council
Leave a comment