December 5, 2025 marks a historic milestone in Nigeria’s national story as one of the country’s enduring elder statesmen turns 100 years old.
As a centenarian, Tanko Yakasai stands as, in the words of the President Bola Tinubu, “the last man standing” among Nigeria’s frontline freedom fighters.
Born on December 5, 1925 in the old Kofar Mata quarters of Kano City, Yakasai rose from humble beginnings to become a leading figure in Nigeria’s political evolution.
He was among the founding members of the Northern Elements Progressive Union, NEPU, which was one of the organisations at the forefront of Northern Nigeria’s struggle for social justice and political awakening ahead of 1960 independence.
Over the years, Yakasai served in many roles including as Commissioner in various ministries in Kano State and later, in Nigeria’s Second Republic, as Special Assistant on National Assembly Liaison to then-President Shehu Shagari. He remained a committed voice for democracy, unity, and national cohesion.
Now at 100, he stands not just as a survivor of history, but as a living testament to Nigeria’s journey from colonial subjugation to independence, from military rule to democracy, and from division to aspiration for unity.
As the country celebrates with him, tributes have poured in. President Tinubu, who AIT.live understands is planning to host Tanko Yakassai, has personally hailed him as “a shining example of commitment to Nigeria,” lauding his century-long dedication to freedom, democracy, and national unity.
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We here at DAAR Communications PLC wish him a truly wonderful birthday. Happy birthday Sir.
Below is the statement personally signed by President Tinubu as tribute to elder statesman, Tanko Yakassai on his 100th birthday.
STATEHOUSE PRESS STATEMENT
PRESIDENT TINUBU’S TRIBUTE TO CENTENARIAN ALHAJI TANKO YAKASAI
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.
In the aftermath of Nigeria’s Independence in 1960, Yakasai maintained an abiding faith in the country and its development. He 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.
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.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR
President and Commander-in-Chief
Federal Republic of Nigeria
December 4, 2025
(Editor: Terverr Tyav)
