Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has urged Nigerian leaders to borrow a leaf from the exemplary virtues of the Emir of Kano, Alhaji Ado Bayero, who is celebrating his 83rd birthday and 50th coronation anniversary on Friday June 14, 2013.
In a tribute to Ado Bayero, which was released by his media office in Abuja, the former Vice President described the Emir of Kano as “a living symbol of impregnable integrity and awesome common touch.”
He said since his coronation in 1963, the Emir of Kano has kept his integrity intact and that selfless service to his people has been the outstanding features of his leadership.
According to Atiku, Ado Bayero has also made his mark as a promoter of peace, unity, tolerance and peaceful coexistence.
The former Vice President recalled late Ikemba of Nnewi, Dim Odumegu Ojukwu, insisted before his death that the Emir of Kano should be allowed to see his corpse before burial.
Atiku said Ojukwu’s request illustrated the extent the Emir of Kano is revered as a man of peace and promoter of unity.
The former Vice President noted that during Bayero’s eventful reign, the people of Kano have witnessed tremendous peace, prosperity and progress.
In Atiku’s words, “presiding over a cosmopolitan state like Kano demands a leader with a large heart and sincere commitment to peace and unity,” adding “Ado Bayero has skilfully discharged this awesome responsibility.”
On Bayero’s 83rd birthday, which coincides with his 50th coronation anniversary, Atiku prayed God to continue to preserve and bless Bayero for humanity.
Also ,Governor Adams Oshiomhole of Edo State has described the Emir of Kano, Alhaji Ado Bayero, CFR, as an embodiment of wisdom and a friend of the talakawa.
While congratulating the Emir on his 50th coronation anniversary, Oshiomhole said “I heartily write to pay tribute and celebrate with Your Royal Highness on this momentous occasion of your landmark 50th coronation anniversary, as Emir of Kano.
“Under Your Royal Highness’ glorious reign, Kano Emirate witnessed phenomenal socio-economic, political, educational and cultural transformation and, more than at any time in its history affirmed its pre-eminent status, as a world-renowned Emirate, centre of commerce and scholarship, and a melting pot for all Nigerians. Despite the fast
changing Nigeria’s landscape, Your Royal Highness has remained a model of how change can be embraced by a Community without sacrificing its cultural and spiritual values.
“Significantly, in the 50 years since Your Royal Highness ascended the exalted throne of your forbears, you have remained a most worthy friend of the Talakawa, who have, in turn, always shown uncommon admiration and fondness for their King.
“As embodiment of wisdom and learning, compassion and selflessness, Your Royal Highness has continued to inspire millions, as a reference point in authentic leadership and service to the Community. Your outstanding
contributions to nation building, business, diplomacy, and the promotion of peaceful co-existence within and beyond the Kano Emirate, have firmly secured for Your Royal Highness a special place in posterity.
“As Your Royal Highness celebrates today, I pray Almighty Allah to grant you more years and excellent health on the throne.”
