By MUHAMMAD NUR TIJANI

Elder statesman and veteran politician, Alhaji Tanko Yakasai, on Friday held a special prayer session at his residence in Kano to mark his 100th birthday, expressing gratitude to Allah, his family and the people of Kano for celebrating the milestone with him.

Yakasai, who addressed relatives, friends, political associates and well-wishers at the gathering, said he was overwhelmed by the outpouring of goodwill and solidarity.

“I want to begin by expressing my heartfelt gratitude to all my children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. I am also thankful to everyone who was invited and those who came on their own to honour this occasion.

“Your presence means a lot to me,” he said.

He described attaining 100 years as a rare blessing and thanked Allah for sparing his life to witness the day.

The elder statesman prayed for continued peace in Kano and Nigeria and urged leaders at all levels to prioritise unity, justice and the welfare of citizens.

“Today is Friday, and many people cherish attending the mosque at this time. Yet you chose to be here. I sincerely appreciate the sacrifice,” he added.

Yakasai also prayed for safe journeys for all attendees and thanked the organisers for ensuring the success of the event.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Yakasai is one of the country’s most prominent political figures, known for his long-standing contributions to national development, public discourse and democratic governance.

A founding member of several political movements since the First Republic, he has played advisory roles to governments and leaders at different times, and remains respected for his advocacy for unity, justice and good governance.

The prayer session was attended by family members, religious scholars, community leaders, politicians and youth groups who described him as a symbol of wisdom and national service.

His son, Abdullahi Tanko Yakasai, Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Tinubu on Community Engagement (North West), described his father as a principled leader, disciplinarian and source of inspiration.

He said the centenarian had consistently guided his family and the nation with wisdom, patience and integrity.

Malam Salisu Yakasai, former governorship candidate and media aide to former Governor Abdullahi Ganduje, said his father’s humility, simplicity and passion for justice remained qualities that endeared him to people across generations.

He said his father’s life had been defined by unwavering principles and a deep sense of responsibility, noting that his counsel shaped not only their upbringing but also the lives of many Nigerians who looked up to him.

Family members, friends and political associates prayed for God to grant him more years of good health and continued contributions to national development. (NAN)

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