Seyi Olorunsola
A grand dinner event filled with glamour and substance unfolded in Kano on Saturday as a constellation of business executives, entrepreneurs, captains of industry, and government dignitaries joined the Alumni of the Aminu Kano Commercial College Class of 1981 to honor Rt. Hon. Yusuf Abdullahi Ata.
The Honourable Minister of State for Housing & Urban Development, a celebrated alumnus, was the recipient of a distinguished award recognizing his stellar career in public service and encouraging him in his current ministerial role in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s cabinet.
The event, a harmonious blend of nostalgia and reverence, drew figures whose contributions have defined the socio-economic and political landscape of Kano State and Nigeria.
With tributes as heartfelt as they were inspiring, the occasion reaffirmed the influence and unity of the Class of 1981, whose members have collectively shaped the region’s development trajectory.
Honoring Excellence in Service
In his remarks, the Minister expressed his profound gratitude to his alma mater and his classmates for the recognition. Rt. Hon. Ata reflected on the school’s pivotal role in shaping individuals who have become assets to Nigeria across diverse sectors.
“The Aminu Kano Community Commercial College is a source of pride to all students who graduated from the college 43 years ago,” he noted.
The Minister recounted his journey in public service, attributing his rise to divine providence. “As a leader, particularly a political trailblazer, one has to face reality and do what is needful to govern people with the fear of God,” he emphasized, calling for leaders to embrace humility and purpose in service to humanity.
A Celebration of Brotherhood and Legacy
Former Accountant General of the Federation, Alhaji Ahmed Idris, the event organizer, emphasized the enduring bond among the alumni.
He called on all members of the Class of 1981 to continue fostering their relationships, built on a foundation of shared experiences and lifelong camaraderie.
“The glory of our college days is a lifetime journey that binds us together, generation after generation,” Idris remarked. He praised the school’s legacy which has consistently produced technocrats and trailblazers who have contributed immensely to Kano State’s growth and Nigeria’s progress.
Distinguished Contributions
The prestigious award presented to Rt. Hon. Yusuf Abdullahi Ata was handed over by Alhaji Bashir Dantata, a renowned business magnate, on behalf of the alumni.
The award symbolized the collective pride and aspirations of the Class of 1981, who have consistently demonstrated excellence and integrity in their respective fields.
Professor Umar Sani Fagge of Bayero University, Kano, delivered closing remarks with a profound spiritual charge to the honoree and attendees.
His words underscored the immense responsibility shouldered by leaders and the imperative for ethical governance rooted in service to the people.
The leader of the Kano Business Forum, addressing the dignitaries at the event, appreciated the leadership of the Aminu Kano Commercial College for honoring the Minister of State and appreciated the President, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu for appointing Rt. Hon. Yusuf Abdullahi Ata as Minister and promised to support the ideals of the current administration in its mission through the Renewed Hope Agenda.
An Epoch-Making Gathering
The event was not just a celebration of the Minister’s achievements but also a testament to the enduring impact of the Aminu Kano Commercial College. The gathering brought together a mosaic of public servants, private sector leaders, and academics, all sharing a common bond as alumni.
Each speech, tribute, and gesture resonated with themes of unity, excellence, and shared responsibility. The luminaries present reflected on their collective journeys, weaving a narrative of resilience, hard work, and commitment to the greater good.
Rt. Hon. Yusuf Abdullahi Ata, in his acceptance speech, pledged to continue serving with diligence and to uphold the values instilled in him during his formative years at the college. His words were a rallying call to his peers and successors to remain steadfast in their efforts to contribute meaningfully to society.
A Legacy for Generations
As the night progressed, it became evident that this event was more than just a tribute to an individual. It was a celebration of a shared legacy and an opportunity to inspire future generations.
The Aminu Kano Commercial College Class of 1981, with its illustrious members, stood as a testament to the transformative power of education and unity.
The evening concluded with renewed commitments from all present to continue supporting one another and fostering an environment where future leaders can emerge.
The atmosphere of camaraderie, pride, and purpose was palpable, leaving an indelible mark on the annals of Kano’s history.
