March 29, 2024

 

Late Nigerian Nationalist, Alhaji Yusuf Maitama Sule has been described as a unique, exceptional and revered statesman, who used everything he had during his lifetime to promote unity among Nigerians and prosperity of the country.

This was made known by scholars, historians and associates of the late Dan Masanin of Kano during a National Colloquium organized by the Centre for Black Culture and International Understanding, Osogbo on Saturday.

The colloquium, which was held virtually through zoom, had in attendance scholars drawn from different Institutions across the country, former diplomats and associates of Maitama Sule. Former Minister of Interior, Lt. Gen. AbdulRahman Dambazau chaired the event, while Registrar of Joint Admission and Matriculation Board, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede was the moderator.

In his opening remark, the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of CBCIU, Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola said Maitama Sule was a foremost Nationalist, politician of repute, intellectual orator and a consummate diplomat, adding that he became the emblem of hope and aspiration as Nigeria faced diverse challenges.

Extolling the legacies of Maitama Sule further, Oyinlola said, “Alhaji Yusuf Maitama Sule stood against military dictatorship and all forms of misgovernance, and ultimately stood for peace and unity of Nigeria. No wonder, he’s fondly called the geniuse orator and the golden voice by reason of his oratory prowess, where he laid emphasis on his greatest dream for Nigeria among leagues of nations.”

In his welcome address, the Executive Director of CBCIU, Professor Siyan Oyeweso said the centre has continued to recognize the hard work, dedication and truth of noble Nigerians with the intention of re-orentating younger generations.

Speaking on the choice of Maitama Sule, the University Don said the worthy legacies and invaluable contributions of the honouree are what attracted the centre.

“The choice of Alhaji Maitama Sule is predicated on the Centres entrenched efforts at extending its frontiers to other parts of Nigeria where outstanding individuals with sterling qualities and invaluable legacies are singled out for celebration. Without gainsaying, Alhaji Maitama Sule eminently qualify for such honour. It is for this reason that I celebrate with all Nigerians, the people of Kano and the family of the great Nigerian we are celebrating today whose impact on the unity and progress of our dear country remain indelible.

“The late Maitama Sule was a widely known figure across the length and breadth of the country and cast a very respectable personality within the international community. He was at different times a politician, diplomat and elderly statesman who used his rich experience for the progress and to stir national development for our great country.
Alhaji Yusuf Maitama Sules life and times is replete with important lessons and legacies worthy of emulation for contemporary Nigeria youths.” He said.

In his speech, Former Secretary-General, Organization of African Trade Union Unity, Owei Lakemfa described Sule as the President Nigeria never had.

Lakemfa described the late Chief whip of House of Representatives as a man with good quality of leadership, a bridge builder and cultural promoter, who excelled at both national and international assignments.

The Chairman of the event, Dambazau called on Nigerians to imbibe the spirit of patriotism and leadership qualities exhibited by the Sule.

In her contribution, the Director of Gender Studues, Bayero University, Kano, Prof. Aisha Abdul-Ismail said, “For me the lessons from Danmasani’s life and speeches is on the breakdown of the family institution, respect for elders and constituted authority. The family is the nucleus of the society and the feeder of the society where the values of respect, justice, leadership, teamwork, cooperation, kindness and fairness.

“His ability to speak truth to power should be emulated by other elders and those that have the opportunity to do so. He used every opportunity to stress the significance of justice and qualities of leadership for a united Nigeria.

Also on the panel at the webinar are; Dr. Shuaibu Shehu Aliyu, Director, Arewa House, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria; Dr. Ayuba Tanko Abubakar, Former Secretary to Jigawa State Government and former Head of Civil Service, Jigawa State; Prof. Dahiru Yahya, Department of History, Bayero University, Kano and Prof. Olukoya Ogen, Immediate Past Provost, Adeyemi College of Education, Ondo.

Others are Amb. Fatima Bala Abubakar, Former Ambassador to Botswana and Chairperson, National Governing Board of NYSC; Prof. Abdulkadir Adamu, Department of History, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria; Dr. Bashir Kurfi, Director, Network for Justice, Kaduna.

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