On July 2, 2026, the Thinklab Group headquarters in Abuja became more than just a venue, it became a sanctuary of gratitude. The Dr. Sa’id Kori Legacy Forum, a community of mentees and beneficiaries whose lives have been transformed by one man’s generosity, gathered to honour their mentor, Dr. Sa’id Alkali Kori, on his 39th birthday.

The day began with a humble reflection. Those who organised the colloquium did not gather to celebrate titles or achievements. They gathered to say thank you. Each person in that room had a story, a moment when Dr. Kori opened a door, extended a hand, or believed in them when they could not yet believe in themselves. The theme, “A Colloquium in Honour of a Legend: A Model of Impact at 39,” was a recognition of a life that has already redefined what it means to lead, to serve, and to build others.

Mr. Yahuza Usman, Chairman of the Organizing Team, opened the event by reflecting on why the Forum was established. “We are not here because we have to be,” he said. “We are here because we want to be. Every person in this room is a product of Dr. Kori’s generosity. We are his living portfolio. And today, we are here to say thank you, and to ensure that his story is never forgotten.”

Dr. Babagana Mohammed Adam, Group Managing Director of Thinklab Group and Managing Director of the Nigeria Food Corporation, delivered the opening remarks. He spoke with admiration of a man he has worked alongside for years, describing Dr. Kori as “an exceptional leader whose vision, integrity, and commitment have inspired countless individuals and transformed institutions.” He noted that birthdays are moments for reflection and gratitude, and that true success is measured not by years lived, but by the positive impact made on the lives of others.

The colloquium featured a paper presentation by Mr. Abubakar Bello, Head of Corporate Services at Family Homes Funds, on “The Impact of Youth Empowerment on Nigeria’s Changing Political Climate.” He argued passionately that with over 70% of Nigeria’s population under 35, youth inclusion in governance is not optional, it is essential. “The greatest investment a nation can make is in its young people,” he said. “When we empower them, we are not just building their futures; we are building the future of our nation.”

Chief John Anichukwu, a renowned real estate expert, delivered a stirring keynote on “Democratising Real Estate.” He challenged the notion that homeownership is a privilege for the few, calling for innovative financing models and public-private partnerships to make housing accessible to all. He cited Dr. Kori’s work at Family Homes Funds and Thinklab Group as exemplary models of affordable housing delivery at scale. “Dr. Kori has shown us that with visionary leadership and innovative partnerships, we can democratise housing and build a more equitable society,” he said.

An interactive panel session, moderated by Miss Fauziya Nasir, Group Head of Corporate Affairs and Strategy at Thinklab Group, brought together Dr. Mala Geidam, Hajiya Fatima Grema, and Mrs. Veronica Braimoh. The panel, titled “The Northern Horizon: Building the Next Generation of Visionaries, Builders, and Industrial Titans,” explored the opportunities and challenges facing Northern Nigeria. Dr. Mala Geidam emphasised the need for technical and vocational education to bridge the gap between learning and employment. Hajiya Fatima Grema called for targeted empowerment of young women. Mrs. Veronica Braimoh stressed the importance of private sector leadership in driving industrialisation and job creation.

But the heart of the event was the launch of the compendium, “Dr. Sa’id Alkali Kori: Achievements, Testimonials and Legacy.” The book, compiled by the Legacy Forum, is more than a biography. It is a labour of love, a document that captures the full arc of Dr. Kori’s life, from his early days in Maiduguri, through his academic achievements, to his current roles as a trusted adviser to governors and chairman of national boards. It includes detailed narratives of his professional achievements, over Twenty heartfelt testimonials from family, friends, and mentees, and prayers for his continued success.

Mr. Abubakar Bello, who served as Chief Launcher, formally unveiled the compendium. “Dr. Kori’s story is not just about success; it is about service,” he said. “It is about lifting others. This compendium is our way of saying thank you and of ensuring that his legacy continues to inspire generations.” The moment was met with a standing ovation, a spontaneous and powerful expression of gratitude.

What followed was even more remarkable. The launch segment transitioned into a fundraising drive, not for personal gain, but to ensure the compendium’s message reaches the widest possible audience. Distinguished launchers and donors raised over One hundred and twenty million naira to support the translation of the compendium into Hausa, Arabic, and French, the distribution of copies to universities across Nigeria, and the ongoing work of the Legacy Forum in mentoring young Nigerians. It was a testament to the trust and admiration Dr. Kori commands across sectors.

Throughout the day, one theme echoed: Dr. Kori’s greatest legacy is not his titles or achievements. It is the people he has built. His mentees are his portfolio. His impact is measured in lives transformed.

When Dr. Kori finally took the stage, he did not speak of his achievements. He spoke of his mentors, his colleagues, and his mentees. He spoke of his family and of Allah, to whom he attributed every success. “At 39,” he said, “I am reminded that life is not about titles. It is about people. It is about the lives you touch, the hope you inspire, and the doors you hold open for others.”

As he concluded with the words that have become his signature, “The best is yet to come”. The room stood in applause. The mentees had come together to celebrate their mentor, their leader, their legend. And in doing so, they had built a movement,
a commitment to carry forward his work of building people, building communities, and building Nigeria.

The Dr. Sa’id Kori Legacy Forum remains steadfast in its mission: to preserve his legacy, to inspire the next generation, and to ensure that the story of Dr. Sa’id Alkali Kori continues to light the path for those who follow.

“A true leader is not the one with the most followers, but the one who creates the most leaders.”