Published in 1960, twelve years after it was written, the Passport of Mallam Ilia appeals to young readers. It is a story of Mallam Ilia who spent a greater part of his life seeking revenge for wrong done to him by one Usman. Though he was able to avenge the wrong done to him, it came at a very high price. This novel explores themes of trust, betrayal and revenge.

The Passport of Mallam Ilia is an important classic for both young and old.