It was more than a tribute; it was a history-making celebration befitting a legend.
The Great Hall of the University of Ghana lit up on Friday, June 6, 2025, as generations of broadcasters, academics, entrepreneurs, and loved ones converged to honour a man whose name is synonymous with Radio Univers, Dr (Alhaji) Abubakari Sidick Ahmed.
For over three decades, Alhaji served as a student journalist and eventually as Station Manager of the University of Ghana’s non-commercial campus-based radio station, making him the longest-serving staff in the history of the station.
His influence extends beyond the institution, shaping media excellence across Ghana through mentorship and unwavering service.
The evening was nothing short of pomp and pageantry. The auditorium was transformed into a beautifully styled dinner setting, its elegance matched by the presence of distinguished guests and the razzmatazz that defined the night.
The University of Ghana Pop Band serenaded the atmosphere, their performance in UG@75 cloth setting the tone for what would be an unforgettable night.
A Grand Entrance for a Humble Giant
Alhaji’s entry took everyone by surprise. Known for his calm demeanour, he danced joyously with the Ghana Dance Ensemble, his all-white kaftan gleaming under the lights. His radiant smile set the tone for the night.
Just beside the dancing space stood a large portrait of him, surrounded by some historic photos that showcased his journey, later becoming the backdrop for the official event photos.
As he walked the red carpet into the hall, he exchanged greetings with a constellation of esteemed personalities, including Professor Ivan Addae-Mensah, Emeritus Professor Kwesi Yankah, Professor Clifford Nii Boi Tagoe, Professor Kwame Karikari, Professor Audrey Gadzekpo, and Supreme Court Justice Henrietta Joy Abena Nyarko Mensa-Bonsu. Also present was Professor Abena Animwaa Yeboah-Banin, Chairperson of the University Media Management Committee.
Chairing the event, Emeritus Professor Kwesi Yankah, one of the personalities whose contribution to Radio Univers cannot be overemphasized, commended the organisers , a coalition of former volunteers of Radio Univers, for refusing to let Alhaji’s contribution fade uncelebrated.
“I have to salute the organisers,” he said. “I think we take so many things for granted. People come and sacrifice their lives, time and resources serving big institutions and they pass on quietly, silently. But not volunteers of Radio Univers. They decided that they were not going to allow this vacuum.”
He praised Alhaji, detailing how committed the former Station Manager has been to the radio station since its inception.
“Alhaji Sidick, the one single face, personification of the station. You cannot miss Alhaji: trainer, producer, director, administrator. Virtually everything. But do you know what? This was at a time many other radio stations were starting.
Every radio station wanted Alhaji to resign and join them but Alhaji turned down all the invitations and decided to stick with Radio Univers.
A time came that he started his PhD in South Africa… His doctoral thesis was on Radio Univers.”
While she could not be physically present, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ghana, Prof Nana Aba Appiah Amfo, followed the event virtually and commended Alhaji for his invaluable contribution to the growth of broadcasting in Ghana.
“His role in raising astute broadcasters cannot be overstated. His mentorship and guidance are highly valued. UG appreciates him and wishes him well in his future endeavors.”
Professor Abena Animwaa Yeboah-Banin highlighted Alhaji’s selflessness during a crucial restructuring of the station, “I’m very humbled by your humility,” she said.
“When I took over the charge of the committee, Alhaji was just about retiring and the university was interested in restructuring the station… he took a keen interest in the restructuring work the committee was tasked to do and I think the biggest part of that work is the recruitment of the now General Manager.
“And I dare say that if you look at what has happened this evening and what has happened in the past few months, you’d agree with me that you can afford to retire from Radio Univers.”
Dr Kwaku Botwe, the new General Manager of Radio Univers, also paid glowing tribute to his predecessor.
He acknowledged Alhaji’s “immense contribution to the station,” while using the moment to highlight the legacy of Univers and the calibre of professionals it has nurtured, Bola Ray, Nii Arday Clegg, DJ Black, Bernard Avle, Kafui Dey, George Addo Jnr, and many others across various fields.
He further called for renewed investment in the station, citing logistical challenges among other significant infrastructure gap that need to be resolved.
Before taking the podium, Alhaji was honoured through a moving traditional performance by Seprewa musician Osei Korankye and his daughter, who offered him appellations. The moment deepened the emotional resonance of the evening.
Alhaji, visibly moved, began his speech with the words, “Alhamdulillah, Alhamdulillah. Praise be unto the Almighty Allah for this day.” He described the evening as a “testament to resilience, vision, and the unwavering commitment of those who have shaped the essence of journalism in Ghana.”
He reflected: “Three decades ago, I was much like the young journalists I’ve had the opportunity to work with and mentor: brimming with ambition, driven by dreams and consumed by insatiable hunger to serve truth through story telling.
“ When I first stepped into the University of Ghana, the thought of an independent radio station free from state control seemed audacious, perhaps, even impossible. But as the saying goes ‘the animal that dares the trap often escapes…”
“Capping the evening was a powerful, energetic performance by songstress Sheriffa Gunu, whose dynamic style brought the night to an exhilarating close.
“The event was masterfully organised by a group of former volunteers of Radio Univers. Working tirelessly as the Central Planning Committee were Albert Quashigah, Esq, Nana Ayesua Tham-Akowuah, Nathan Kwabena Anokye Adisi (Bola Ray), Dr Kwaku Botwe, Pascaline K. Songsore, Sanjay Mirchandani, John Samlafo, Kwesi Amoak, Kweku Obeng-Adjei, Linda Temah Yeboah, Jeffrey Nyabor, Perpetual Osei, and Albert Benefo Buabeng (Abrantepa).
Organisers made three symbolic presentations to Alhaji Sidick—each carefully chosen to reflect their deep appreciation and admiration for him.
First was a beautifully woven smock, representing leadership, tradition, and honour. It was followed by a citation, eloquently capturing his immense contributions, selflessness, and enduring impact on student and professional broadcasting in Ghana.
The final presentation, a stunning pencil art portrait, immortalised his likeness and legacy, a visual reminder of the countless lives he’s touched.
Each gift was more than a token; it was a symbol of gratitude from a community he helped shape and a generation he inspired. In celebrating Alhaji Sidick, the night, hosted by Bernard Avle and Pascaline Songsore, reaffirmed what those who passed through Radio Univers already knew: that greatness is often built not just on talent, but on humility, sacrifice, and a lifetime of silent, consistent service.
PHOTOS: Former @univers1057fm volunteers made a special appearance at #TheTouchdown yesterday to celebrate Alhaji, former Radio Univers Station Manager, for his outstanding 20-year contribution to the station.#UniversNews#RadioUnivers#VoiceOfLegon pic.twitter.com/6lfoG0evrB
— Radio Univers 105.7FM (@univers1057fm) June 7, 2025
Members of the planning committee for #TheTouchdown — an event organized by former Radio Univers volunteers to honour Alhaji Abubakari Sidick Ahmed, former Station Manager, for his dedicated service.#RadioUnivers #VoiceOfLegon pic.twitter.com/isXEztLhyG
— Radio Univers 105.7FM (@univers1057fm) June 7, 2025
