By Prof. Mohammed Kuta Yahaya
It is with profound joy and deep reverence that I pen this tribute on the auspicious occasion of the 73rd birthday and the 22nd anniversary of the ascension to the throne of His Royal Highness, Alhaji (Dr.) Yahaya Abubakar, CFR, the revered Etsu Nupe. On this historic day, we do not merely celebrate the passage of time, but we extol the virtues, legacies, and enduring spirit of a monarch whose reign has become a beacon of unity, service, and enlightened leadership.
The Etsu Nupe stands as a custodian of tradition, culture, and values for the Nupe Kingdom, encompassing Niger, Kwara, Kogi States and the Federal Capital Territory. His reign has been defined by wisdom, inclusivity, and compassion, uniting the Nupe people under a canopy of shared identity and mutual respect. With humility and uncommon patience, he has listened to the yearnings of his subjects and responded with kindness, justice, and fairness. His compassion, devotion to the Islamic faith, and unwavering commitment to humanity are, indeed, legendary.
Since 2003, His Royal Highness has redefined the meaning of traditional leadership in Nigeria. As Chairman of the Niger State Council of Traditional Rulers, and as Coordinating Chairman of the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria, he has consistently elevated the values of reconciliation, religious tolerance, and national cohesion. His collaboration with eminent royal fathers such as the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar III, and the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, underscores his role as a bridge-builder who transcends ethnicity, region, and creed.
Under his stewardship, the Nupe Kingdom has become a symbol of peace, innovation, and cultural renaissance. His eloquent speeches and landmark interventions continue to inspire confidence in Nigeria’s traditional institutions and command the respect of leaders at both state and federal levels. He is, without doubt, a statesman whose voice is heard with admiration far beyond the banks of the River Niger.
I also take this moment to commend our amiable Governor of Niger State, His Excellency Mohammed Umaru Bago, the Turakin Nupe, whose humility and commitment to service have further strengthened the bond between government and the traditional institution. Together with the guidance of our royal fathers, the state is witnessing remarkable transformation in governance and development.
On a personal note, I remain eternally grateful for the singular honour bestowed upon me on January 16, 2009, when His Royal Highness graciously appointed me as the pioneer Magatakarda of the Nupe Kingdom, an honour that continues to inspire my service to the people. From supporting my academic engagements, such as my 459th Inaugural Lecture at the University of Ibadan in 2019, to standing with me during moments of personal loss, particularly the passing of my beloved mother in April 2025, His Royal Highness has consistently exemplified loyalty, empathy, and magnanimity.
As we mark this double celebration, his birthday and his enthronement, we collectively pray that Almighty Allah (SWT) grant His Royal Highness long life, sound health, and greater wisdom to continue guiding his people with vision and integrity. May He also strengthen the Nupe Kingdom, and by extension, Nigeria, in the pursuit of peace, knowledge, food security, and human capital development.
Your Royal Highness, you are indeed a man of uncommon spirit and enduring legacy. May your reign remain a fountain of blessings, progress, and harmony for generations yet unborn.
Bagadozhi!
Prof. Yahaya is the Former Secretary to the Niger State Government, Magatakarda Nupe (MTN), Waziri of Ibadanland and Senior Academic, University of Ibadan
