By Ogochukwu Isioma
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has paid glowing tribute to elder statesman Alhaji Tanko Yakasai as he marks his 100th birthday, describing him as the last surviving giant among the men and women who fought for Nigeria’s independence.
In a heartfelt message he personally signed on Wednesday, the President celebrated the centenarian as “the last man standing” from the generation that resisted “repressive colonial subjugation” and helped shape Nigeria’s path to nationhood.
“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,” President Tinubu said. “Born a hundred years ago in Kano City, Alhaji Yakasai exemplifies a purposeful life, carving out a meaningful legacy despite humble beginnings.”
Tinubu recalled how the injustices of colonial rule stirred the young Yakasai into activism, prompting him to channel his youthful vigour into the nationalist movement as a freedom fighter, journalist and political organiser.
“Disturbed by the injustice and maltreatment he witnessed under colonial rule, he chose to join the fight for Nigeria’s liberation,” the President noted. “As a young man, Baba Yakasai channelled his energy into the struggle for the emancipation of his people and the rest of the country.”
The President highlighted Yakasai’s collaboration with Mallam Aminu Kano and other progressives in the Northern Elements Progressive Union (NEPU), a movement that led an extensive grassroots mobilisation across Northern Nigeria during the independence struggle.
“Through NEPU, Yakasai and his co-travellers launched a massive awakening campaign in Northern Nigeria, igniting the fire for the Independence struggle,” Tinubu added.
After independence, Yakasai remained active in nation-building, serving in key roles including Commissioner under Kano’s Military Governor Audu Bako and Special Assistant on National Assembly Liaison to President Shehu Shagari during the Second Republic.
Tinubu described him as a lifelong advocate of unity, democracy and peaceful coexistence.
“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,” he said.
Beyond his national contributions, Tinubu acknowledged Yakasai’s personal support for him and the progressive movement over the years.
“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.”
The President joined family, friends and associates in wishing the elder statesman a joyous 100th birthday on December 5.
