Tribute: President Tinubu hails centenarian Tanko Yakassai

*President Bola Ahmed Tinubu describes Alhaji Tanko Yakassai as the last man standing among the noble Nigerian men and women, who stood firm for the country’s liberty and freedom from repressive colonial subjugation

Alexander Davis | ConsumerConnect

Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has eulogised Alhaji Tanko Yakassai for exemplifying a purposeful life, building a meaningful legacy despite humble beginnings at 100.

Tinubu stated this in a tribute he personally penned and issued Thursday, December 4, 2025.

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The President stated that of the noble men and women who stood firm for Nigeria’s liberty and freedom from repressive colonial subjugation, Alhaji Yakasai is “the last man standing”.

Born a hundred years ago in Kano City, Northern Nigeria, Tinubu stated Alhaji Yakasai “exemplified 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, the President said.

He further recalled that as a young man, 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.

President Tinubu further said the centenarian’s activism led him to join hands with comrades in the Northern Elements Progressive Union (NEPU), led by the visionary radical Malam Aminu Kano.

The Nigerian leader stated: “Through NEPU, Yakasai and his co-travellers launched a massive awakening campaign in Northern Nigeria, igniting the fire for the Independence struggle.

“In the aftermath of Nigeria’s Independence in 1960, Yakasai maintained an abiding faith in the country and its development.”

According to him, Yakassai played several significant roles, including serving as State Commissioner in Kano under Military Governor Audu Bako and as Special Assistant on National Assembly Liaison to President Shehu Shagari during the Second Republic.

Tinubu said: “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.”

The President stated: “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….”

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