For some people service and a commitment to excellence are simply a way of life. Every day, waking up with purpose is often driven by a higher calling to do right by others and leave a lasting legacy that changes lives. Whether big or small, we can all do our part to make this world a better place, and that is a virtue that pilot and philanthropist Jamil Mohammed Abubakar incorporates into his career and personal life. From building a career as a pilot to establishing his charity foundation, Abubakar talks about what inspired him.
Born in Gusau, Abubakar is the son-in-law to the richest man in Africa. Working hard to get to where he is now, Abubakar is a commercial pilot with over 11 years of experience. “Becoming a pilot made a lot of sense to me,” says Abubakar. “It’s a challenging career where the safety and comfort of others are paramount. I love my work.” While Abubakar finds incredible happiness in his job, he was not content to settle when he knew he was capable of even more.”
Coming from a background of hard work and into a life of tremendous wealth propelled Abubakar to create an NGO that serves those less fortunate. Jamil founded the JMD Foundation in 2012 to help people build better lives through aid and relief programs. “The focus of the JMD Foundation is to lend a helping hand to the needy and improve the quality of life for all of us,” says Jamil. “No one should live in poverty when we have the tools to prevent it. It’s about working together.”
Enthusiastic about traveling and embracing humanity and nature, Abubakar looks to the world as a place of so much potential, which is not surprising. Known for the awards, accolades, and distinctions garnered in his education and career, Abubakar does not let an opportunity go to waste. “I think when we push ourselves to do better, we can give more because we have more,” explains Abubakar. “I build success and wealth to share it. There is more than enough to go around.”
A graduate of the Nigerian Military School and a mentor to future pilots, Abubakar has a pretty full plate. He laughs, “I wouldn’t have it any other way. Seeing others thrive motivates me every day.” A well-rounded and fascinating man, Abubakar aspires to bring more to the nation of Nigeria and beyond as he builds his charity foundation.