An Open Letter to President Bola Ahmed TinubuFrom the Yoruba Elders Forum, KanoYour Excellency,Gratitude for Appointing Rt. Hon. Yusuf Abdullahi Ata as Minister of State for Housing and Urban DevelopmentWe, the Yoruba Elders Forum in Kano, write with immense gratitude and profound appreciation for your thoughtful decision to appoint Rt. Hon. Yusuf Abdullahi Ata as the Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development.
Following a Congress of the Forum held on Friday, November 15, 2024, we deemed it necessary to commend your administration for recognizing and rewarding a true unifier and advocate of inclusiveness.
Your Excellency, Rt. Hon. Yusuf Abdullahi Ata is not just a celebrated son of Kano; he is, by all measures, “our own.” Among the Yoruba community in Kano, Hon. Ata is fondly known as “Rt. Hon. Yusuf Abdullahi Bola Ata.”
This Yoruba name, “Bola,” is a reflection of his enduring bond with our people, his admiration for Yoruba culture, and his unflinching support for diversity and unity. Such is his affinity with the Yoruba Nation that his presence evokes trust, respect, and a sense of belonging.
During his tenure as the Speaker of the Kano State House of Assembly, Hon. Ata championed legislation aimed at fostering inclusiveness and peaceful coexistence among Kano’s diverse ethnic communities. Of particular note was his unwavering commitment to the Yoruba ethnic group in Kano.
In his local government area of Fagge, Hon. Ata advocated for and ensured that the councilorships position of the Sabon Gari East Ward was reserved for a Yoruba person.
Furthermore, his efforts led to the institutionalization of the office of the Special Adviser to the Governor on Inter-Ethnic Relations, reserved for members of the Yoruba ethnic nationality.
These initiatives significantly enhanced the integration of the Yoruba community into Kano’s sociopolitical framework, reinforcing our sense of belonging and shared destiny.Hon. Ata’s detribalised nature and desire for unity are evident in every facet of his public service.
He has continuously worked to bridge divides, build coalitions, and create an atmosphere where every ethnic nationality feels valued and respected
It is no exaggeration to say that his appointment reflects the ideals of a truly united Nigeria, where talent and dedication to national progress are recognized above tribal or religious affiliations.
The Yoruba Elders Forum in Kano wishes to assure Your Excellency of our unwavering support for Hon. Ata as he embarks on this new chapter of service to our great nation.
We are confident that his capacity for visionary leadership, coupled with his deep understanding of housing and urban development issues, will significantly contribute to the success of your Renewed Hope Agenda.
His proven track record of fostering inclusiveness and driving development makes him a perfect fit for this important role.Your Excellency, we once again thank you for this historic appointment. It not only reflects your administration’s commitment to national unity but also reinforces our belief in your ability to steer Nigeria toward a prosperous and inclusive future.
The Yoruba community in Kano stands firmly behind you and Hon. Ata, ready to partner in any initiative that will promote the growth and stability of our dear country.May your leadership continue to inspire hope, deliver progress, and unite the diverse peoples of Nigeria.
Yours faithfully,Mr. Armstrong BelloSpokesperson, Yoruba Elders Forum, Kano