President Bola Tinubu has congratulated elder statesman, Alhaji Tanko Yakasai on the celebration of his landmark centenary, describing him as a symbol of resilience, patriotism, and commitment to Nigeria’s unity and democratic advancement.
In a heartfelt message, President Tinubu said joining family, friends and associates to celebrate Yakasai at 100 also means honouring “a century of dedicated service to freedom and democracy and many years of supporting him and the progressive cause.”
President Tinubu commended the elder statesman for maintaining a steadfast belief in Nigeria throughout the decades, describing him as “the last man standing among the noble men and women who fought ceaselessly for the nation’s liberty.”
He noted that Alhaji Yakasai has, throughout his youth and old age remained a shining example of devotion to national cohesion and peaceful coexistence, consistently offering guidance that strengthens Nigeria’s democratic journey.
“In both youth and old age, Yakasai remains a shining example of commitment to Nigeria. He is a consensus builder who consistently weighs in on the side of national cohesion, peaceful coexistence, and democratic consolidation.
“In celebrating Baba Yakasai today, I am not only celebrating the man and his personal achievements, but also a century of dedicated service to freedom and democracy and many years of supporting me and the progressive cause.
“I am pleased to join family, friends and associates to celebrate the life and commitment of Alhaji Tanko Yakasai as he turns 100 on December 5,” the Nigerian leader said.
He recalled the elder statesman’s courageous role in the anti-colonial struggle, where his outrage at oppression and injustice propelled him into activism as a journalist, freedom fighter and one of the leading voices of the Northern Elements Progressive Union (NEPU) under the leadership of the late Mallam Aminu Kano.
“Of the noble men and women who stood firm for our liberty and freedom from repressive colonial subjugation, Alhaji Tanko Yakasai is the last man standing. Born a hundred years ago in Kano City, Alhaji Yakasai exemplifies a purposeful life, carving out a meaningful legacy despite humble beginnings.
“Disturbed by the injustice and maltreatment he witnessed under colonial rule, he chose to join the fight for Nigeria’s liberation. As a young man, Baba Yakasai channelled his energy into the struggle for the emancipation of his people and the rest of the country as a freedom fighter, journalist, and frontline political activist.
“His activism led him to join hands with comrades in the Northern Elements Progressive Union (NEPU), led by the visionary radical Mallam Aminu Kano. Through NEPU, Yakasai and his co-travellers launched a massive awakening campaign in Northern Nigeria, igniting the fire for the Independence struggle” he said.
The Nigerian Leader further highlighted Yakasai’s post-independence contributions, including his service as a State Commissioner in Kano under Governor Audu Bako and later as Special Assistant on National Assembly Liaison to President Shehu Shagari during the Second Republic.
President Tinubu prayed for continued health, strength and peace for Yakasai, adding that his life remains an enduring inspiration to generations of Nigerians.
Lateefah Ibrahim