Recent stories of Nigerians returning lost items highlight a remarkable sense of honesty and integrity across the country and beyond.
Daily News 24 reports that this trend of selflessness and adherence to high moral standards is being widely recognized and celebrated.
READ ALSO: Nigerian man returns 14,000 dollars mistakenly sent by crypto trader
In a notable example, Auwal Ahmed Dankode, an airport worker at Malam Aminu Kano International Airport (MAKIA), returned $10,000 (approximately N16 million) he found while cleaning an EgyptAir aircraft. Dankode discovered the money in an envelope during his routine cleaning duties on Wednesday and promptly reported it to the airline manager, who verified and returned the funds to its rightful owner.
In 2023, Kano tricycle rider Auwalu Salisu made headlines for his integrity by returning N15 million to a Chadian passenger who had forgotten the money in his vehicle. Despite personal financial challenges, Salisu chose to return the money, earning praise from Kano lawmakers and the Kano State Matchmaking Marriage Association, which offered him the opportunity to choose four wives from a selection of ten.
In 2019, Aircraftman Bashir Umar of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) was recognized for his honesty after finding €37,000 while patrolling the Hajj Camp Market in Kano. Umar’s decision to return the money led to commendation from the NAF, with plans for a formal reward in recognition of his exemplary behavior.
Salihu AbdulHadi Kankia, a member of the First Aid Group of Jama’atu Izalatil Bid’ah Wa Iqamatus Sunnah (JIBWIS), received widespread admiration during the Ramadan Tafsir closing ceremony in Bauchi for returning a bag containing over N100 million. Kankia’s act of integrity earned him a sponsored Hajj pilgrimage, N2 million from Hon. Abdulmalik Zannan Bangudu, and a business bus from Governor Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed.
Recently, Muhammad Na’Allah, a pilgrim from Zamfara State, demonstrated similar honesty during the Hajj pilgrimage in Makkah, Saudi Arabia, by returning €1,750 to the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON). Na’Allah found the money in a waist bag and reported it to NAHCON, reflecting his commitment to ethical behavior. The commission praised Na’Allah’s actions, noting that his name, meaning “closeness to Allah,” is fitting for his virtuous behavior.
These few stories collectively showcase a strong tradition of honesty and integrity among Nigerians, showcasing their commitment to doing what is right in various circumstances.
