During the Sallah festivities, I had the privilege of witnessing an extraordinary bond between a remarkable couple that left me feeling both amazed and inspired.
The husband, a skilled butcher, takes on the responsibility of slaughtering and skinning rams, as well as preparing the meat for cooking during the Sallah festivities each year. This lucrative business not only provides a substantial income but also ensures that his family is well-provided for in the days following the celebration. It is astonishing to think that he can earn as much as thirty thousand naira on Sallah day alone! Although the subsequent days yield less profit, as most Muslims prefer to slaughter their sacrificial animals on the main day, the husband's dedication remains unwavering.
On the other hand, the wife of this remarkable couple engages in various household tasks during the festivities to make money. From frying the Sallah meat to cooking the food for the festival, washing the dishes, and overall cleaning of people's house post-celebration, she takes on the role of a diligent and hardworking homemaker.
During this particular Sallah, I quietly observed the couple working in harmony as they collaborated on the butchering of my ram. Surprisingly, the husband had not brought along a boy to assist him in holding the ram, but his wife swiftly stepped in to lend a helping hand. This act of teamwork proved to be highly successful, resulting in a significant sum of money that would sustain them for days after the Sallah festivities. Witnessing their collaborative efforts and the genuine affection they showed for one another was truly a sight to behold.
In conversation with the husband, he shared the story of how he met his supportive wife. He had come to Katsina from Fago in Daura Emirate, Katsina State, with the intention of making money. At that time, he was already married to a woman from Niger Republic. However, when the woman he is currently married to suggested they tie the knot, he expressed his inability to support two wives simultaneously. As fate would have it, his wife from Niger Republic fell ill and sadly passed away not long after their conversation. Shortly thereafter, he married the woman from the Batsari area in Katsina State, who has been a blessing to their union. Together, they have been blessed with a daughter.
This exceptional couple teaches us a valuable lesson, particularly in the realm of collaboration to provide sustenance for their family. Their unwavering support for one another and their willingness to work together exemplify the importance of teamwork in achieving shared goals.
Perhaps, another valuable lesson that can be gleaned from this remarkable couple's story is the significant difference in earnings between skilled jobs and government work. It is evident that skilled jobs, such as the husband's butchering profession, can yield substantial income, as opposed to government jobs that may not provide such immediate financial rewards.
Indeed, it is quite unlikely for any type of government work to fetch a sum as substantial as thirty thousand naira in a single day. This point aligns with the perspective shared by the Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Radda, who encourages graduates to pursue skilled jobs rather than waiting for government employment opportunities that may be scarce. The governor's advice seeks to emphasize the value and potential financial stability that skilled jobs can offer.
Furthermore, Professor Isa Ali Pantami echoes this sentiment in his book titled "Skills Rather Than Just Degrees." In his work, he emphasizes the importance of acquiring practical skills that go beyond formal education. This highlights the fact that possessing a skillset can open doors to lucrative opportunities, allowing individuals to thrive in their chosen fields.
In summary, the incredible couple's story not only teaches us the significance of collaboration but also underscores the financial benefits associated with skilled jobs compared to government work. The viewpoints expressed by Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Radda, and Professor Isa Ali Pantami further reinforce the importance of pursuing practical skills and embracing alternative career paths that offer greater financial prospects.
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