Aliyu Ahmed Bichi

My Graduate Story

After completing my studies, I participated in the mandatory one-year National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), during which I was posted to the North East Development Commission. That experience gave me practical exposure to public sector operations and deepened my understanding of development work in Nigeria.

A few weeks after completing my NYSC, I secured a role at the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), where I currently work in the Office of the Director General. The transition was quite smooth, and I believe my proactive attitude during service, along with the skills I developed, played a key role in landing the job.

A Day in My Life

A typical day in my role as Personal Assistant to the Director in the Office of the Director General at NITDA is fast-paced and dynamic. My day usually starts with reviewing and prioritizing correspondence—emails, memos, and requests that require the Director’s attention. I prepare briefing notes, arrange meetings, and ensure the Director’s schedule is well-organized and efficient.

Throughout the day, I coordinate with other departments, attend internal meetings to take notes or follow up on action points, and handle administrative tasks like drafting letters or reports. I also act as a liaison between the Director’s office and external stakeholders, ensuring that communications are clear and responses are timely. Flexibility is key, as priorities can shift quickly depending on emerging issues or high-level directives.

My Journey to the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA)

In my current role, I serve as the Personal Assistant to the Director in the Office of the Director General at the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA). I’m responsible for coordinating the Director’s daily schedule, managing correspondence, and supporting high-level administrative and strategic activities across departments. My work also involves liaising with both internal teams and external stakeholders to ensure smooth operations and timely execution of the Director’s priorities.

My Birmingham Experience

My time at the University of Birmingham was unforgettable – a chapter of life filled with rich memories, lasting friendships, and deep personal growth.

I had the privilege of meeting incredible friends from all over the world – Egypt, Oman, Palestine, Canada, Morocco, Syria, Bangladesh, the UK – and over time, they became more than friends; they became family. We learned from one another, laughed together, and stood by each other through the highs and lows of university life.

One thing I loved most was the campus itself. Tucked away from the bustle of the city centre, Birmingham’s closed campus and the warmth of Selly Oak created a true sense of community. You’d walk past Old Joe, breathe in the autumn air, hear a dozen languages around you, and still feel right at home. The Nigerian Society and Islamic Society were anchors for me – spaces that celebrated identity and made belonging easy. Whether it was Friday prayers, cultural nights, or society debates, there was always something to be part of.

Some of my fondest memories? The friendly football league between societies – full of competition, unity, and laughter. Late-night FIFA battles on someone’s console. Movie marathons, where we’d argue over popcorn flavours and what to watch. Spontaneous food orders, tea runs, and café outings that turned into hours-long conversations. And those nights we’d just storm one another’s flats, no plan, no agenda – just us, and the comfort of shared space.

Those years shaped me in ways I’m still grateful for. They taught me to appreciate diversity, to build bridges, and to hold on to joy in the little things. To any student reading this: embrace it all. These days are fleeting, but their memories stay with you for life.

Birmingham’s Impact

The learning experience on my course was instrumental in shaping my career. My academic background provided me with a strong foundation in critical thinking, communication, and research skills—all of which are essential in my current role. Beyond the theoretical knowledge, the course also emphasized practical applications, teamwork, and understanding complex systems, which directly translate into how I approach my day-to-day responsibilities.

It also helped me develop a structured way of analyzing problems and proposing solutions, which is crucial in a fast-paced government environment like NITDA. Overall, the course equipped me not just with knowledge, but with the mindset to continuously learn, adapt, and add value wherever I find myself.

I didn’t make extensive use of the University’s support services like the Careers Network, mainly because I had a clear intention to return home to Nigeria after my studies. Most of the resources and opportunities offered were more tailored to the UK job market. That said, the overall academic environment and exposure I gained during my time at the university—through interactions with lecturers, course projects, and a diverse student body—still played a big role in shaping my mindset and readiness for the professional world back home.

My Achievements

One of the best things about my course was how interactive it was. The learning environment encouraged open discussions, debates, and critical engagement with both lecturers and classmates from diverse backgrounds. This made the classroom experience dynamic and thought-provoking, rather than just passive learning.

I particularly enjoyed how real-world case studies and current global issues were woven into the curriculum—it helped bridge theory and practice in a very engaging way. The course also allowed room for independent thinking and research, which helped sharpen my analytical and communication skills—skills I rely on every day in my current role.

Advice for Students

Embrace it all. These days are fleeting, but their memories stay with you for life.