By Fatimah Bintu Dikko

In today’s fast-paced world, where materialism and individualism seem to reign supreme, the need for compassion and empathy towards our fellow human beings is slowly fading away. The recent tragic death of Aliyu Jamiu, a young man who lost his life to kidney failure due to the lack of funds for a life-saving transplant, serves as a stark reminder of the repercussions of this loss of humanity in our society. As we mourn the loss of Aliyu, it is imperative that we reflect on how we can instill the values of compassion, kindness, and empathy in the next generation to prevent such tragedies from occurring again.

The story of Aliyu Jamiu is a heartbreaking reminder of the harsh realities faced by many individuals in our society today. Aliyu, a promising young man with dreams and aspirations, was diagnosed with end-stage renal disease, a condition that required a kidney transplant to survive. However, due to financial constraints and a lack of access to proper healthcare, Aliyu was unable to undergo the life-saving surgery, ultimately leading to his untimely death.

The sad truth is that Aliyu’s story is not an isolated incident. Every day, countless individuals around the world suffer due to the lack of basic necessities such as food, shelter, and healthcare. The rising levels of poverty, inequality, and social injustice have created a society that is increasingly devoid of compassion and empathy towards those in need. As a result, many individuals like Aliyu are left to suffer and die alone, without the necessary support and care that they deserve.

The loss of humanity in our society can be attributed to a variety of factors, including the increasing emphasis on individual success and material wealth, the erosion of community and social ties, and the breakdown of traditional values and norms. In a world where self-interest and greed are often prioritized over the well-being of others, it is not surprising that acts of kindness and compassion are becoming increasingly rare.

As parents, educators, and members of society, it is our responsibility to reverse this troubling trend and revive the values of humanity and compassion in the next generation. By raising our children to be empathetic, caring, and socially conscious individuals, we can create a more compassionate and inclusive society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive and succeed.

One of the first steps in cultivating a sense of humanity in our children is to lead by example. Children learn by observing the behavior of their parents and caregivers, so it is crucial for adults to demonstrate acts of kindness, empathy, and compassion in their daily lives. Whether it is volunteering at a local charity, helping a neighbor in need, or simply being kind to strangers, every act of compassion helps to instill the values of humanity in our children.

Additionally, it is important for parents to openly discuss issues of social justice, inequality, and poverty with their children, helping them to develop a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by others in our society. By encouraging children to ask questions, think critically, and engage with issues of social importance, parents can empower their children to become advocates for positive change in their communities.

Furthermore, parents should make an effort to expose their children to diverse perspectives, cultures, and experiences, helping them to cultivate a sense of empathy and understanding towards others. By fostering an appreciation for diversity and inclusivity, parents can help their children develop a strong moral compass that guides their actions and decisions in the future.

In memory of Aliyu Jamiu and all those who have suffered due to the lack of humanity in our society, let us commit to raising our children to be compassionate, empathetic, and socially responsible individuals. By instilling the values of kindness, generosity, and solidarity in the next generation, we can create a more humane and caring society where no one is left behind.

In conclusion, the tragic death of Aliyu Jamiu serves as a sobering reminder of the urgent need to revive humanity in our society. As we mourn the loss of a promising young life, let us honor his memory by committing to raise our children with compassion, empathy, and a strong sense of social responsibility. Together, we can create a more inclusive and caring society where every individual is valued and supported. Let us not wait for another tragedy to strike before we take action. The time to revive humanity is now.

May the soul of ALIYU JAMIU be forgiven by God and be granted the highest rank of paradise . Amen

Fatimah Bintu Dikko is a Girl Child Rights activist and can be reached via 0805688298