Ammar Ali: The 13-year-old motorcycle craftsman defying odds in Yobe

By Kasim Isa Muhammad

Ammar Ali, an extraordinary 13-year-old residing in the Takari Area of Gashua Local Government Area of Yobe State, has already demonstrated tremendous talent despite facing educational challenges. Due to financial constraints, he had to drop out of primary school at the fourth-grade level, but this setback didn’t deter his determination to follow his dream of becoming a mechanical engineer.

In an exclusive interview with Kasim Isa Muhammad, Ammar shared insights into his life and aspirations.

Neptune Prime: Ammar, could you tell us a bit more about yourself and your background?

Ammar Ali: Certainly. I’m Ammar Ali, and I live in the Takari area of Gashua town. My father is a farmer, and I’m just 13 years old. What sets me apart is my overwhelming passion for becoming an engineer. This passion is what drove me to start working on making these motorcycles.

Neptune Prime: You mentioned that you had to withdraw from primary school due to financial constraints. Can you share more about your experiences during this time?

Ammar Ali: Yes, it was a difficult decision to leave school when I was in the fourth grade. My parents simply couldn’t afford my education. While I wasn’t attending school, I spent my time at home crafting these motorcycles that you see in front of me today.

Neptune Prime: What inspired you to start making these motorcycles?

Ammar Ali: My dream has always been to become an engineer, someone who can create real cars, motorcycles, and even aeroplanes. I knew that to embark on this journey, I had to start somewhere, so I began making these small motorcycles. However, what keeps bothering me is that I’m not currently attending school, and I believe that achieving my dream without proper education will be incredibly challenging.

Neptune Prime: Did you receive any assistance or guidance while producing these motorcycles, or did you tackle this project entirely on your own?

Ammar Ali: I didn’t have any external help; I crafted all these motorcycles by myself. It took me quite some time, sometimes up to a month, to create each one. It was a labour of love and an indication of my determination to pursue my dreams.

Neptune Prime: That’s incredible, Ammar. Can you tell us more about the process of making these small motorcycles?

Ammar Ali: Sure, I gather sticks and other materials like plastic and rubber to create the frame and wheels. I also use my imagination and what I’ve seen of real motorcycles to design them.

Neptune Prime: What challenges have you faced while making these motorcycles on your own?

Ammar Ali: The biggest challenge is the lack of proper tools and resources. I have to be creative with what’s available. Sometimes, it’s difficult to find the right materials, but I try my best.

Neptune Prime: Have you showcased your creations to anyone in your community or received any recognition?

Ammar Ali: Yes, some people in my neighbourhood have seen my motorcycles, and they are impressed. They say I have a talent. I hope to show them to more people someday.

Neptune Prime: You mentioned your dream of becoming a mechanical engineer. How do you plan to pursue this ambition despite not currently attending school?

Ammar Ali: I hope that someday, someone will notice what I’m doing and help me get an education. If I can go to school and learn more about engineering, I believe I can achieve my dream of building real cars, motorcycles, and even aeroplanes.

Neptune Prime: Ammar, do you think you would benefit from assistance or support from the government to pursue your education and dream of becoming an engineer?

Ammar Ali: Yes, I believe government support would make a big difference in my life. It would allow me to go to school and learn the skills I need to achieve my dream.

Neptune Prime: What message do you have for other children who may face challenges in pursuing their dreams?

Ammar Ali: I would say to never give up on your dreams, no matter how difficult it may seem. Keep working hard and be creative with what you have. If you have a passion, it’s possible to make it a reality with determination and some help along the way.

Ammar Ali’s story is a strong indication of the resilience and ambition of young minds, even in the face of adversity. His intriguing journey towards becoming an engineer may have hit obstacles, but his spirit remains undeterred, and he continues to dream of a future where he can contribute to the world of mechanical engineering.