Bosede Olufunmi
Elder statesman Alhaji Tanko Yakasai has described the late Military Governor of the old Kano State, Audu Bako, as the architect of modern development in present-day Kano and Jigawa States.
Yakasai stated this on Monday during the public presentation of a book titled “Governor Audu Bako: Man of Wisdom and Foresight,” held in Kano.
He noted that Bako, under whom he served as a cabinet member, laid the foundation for several landmark projects that accelerated socio-economic growth in the state.
“Bako demonstrated exceptional commitment to the development of the old Kano State,” Yakasai said, describing the late governor as a patriot who drove transformative governance.
According to him, Bako initiated key infrastructural projects, including 22 dams that enhanced agriculture, power supply, and water access in various communities.
Author of the book, retired Commissioner of Police Manya Dogo, said he worked closely with Bako for 10 years. He urged emerging leaders to study the book, saying it offered valuable lessons in leadership and public service.
In separate remarks, Gov. Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano and Gov. Umar Namadi of Jigawa, pledged that copies of the book would be distributed to schools across both states.
Reviewing the publication, Prof. Bashir Al-Bishak of Nasarawa State University described Bako as a disciplined, visionary and hardworking leader.
He highlighted his notable achievements, including the Bagauda Trade Fair Complex, Tiga Dam project, creation of a state transport system, allocation of 2,500 hectares of cattle grazing land, and the establishment of the Falgore Game Reserve.
Al-Bishak added that Bako also introduced the first local government reforms in Nigeria in 1968, initiated the first tree-planting campaign, established the first Hajj pilgrims’ camp, and floated a state-owned aircraft company.
Former Kano State Governor, Sen. Ibrahim Shekarau, also paid tribute to the late governor, describing his leadership style as a benchmark for successive administrations.
The chief launcher, Alhaji Auwalu Abdullahi Rano, said communities in Rano Emirate remain indebted to Bako for the dams constructed in their area, which he said boosted agricultural activities.
He announced the purchase of 25 copies of the book for N25 million.