By Joy Odor, Abuja
The ancient city of Bida came alive on Thursday with pomp and pageantry as the Nupe Kingdom celebrated the 73rd birthday and 22nd coronation anniversary of its revered monarch, Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar, the 13th Etsu Nupe.
From colourful horse-riding durbars to traditional music, prayers, and cultural displays, thousands of well-wishers, chiefs, clerics, and dignitaries thronged the royal palace to honour a man widely regarded as the custodian of Nupe heritage and a bridge-builder in Nigeria’s traditional institution.
Among those who sent glowing tributes was the Executive Secretary of the Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria (ARCN), Dr. Abubakar Adamu Dabban, who hailed the Etsu Nupe as a father, mentor, and unifier.
In a goodwill message issued on behalf of the Dabban family and the people of Niger State, Dr. Dabban described the monarch as a father, mentor, and unifying force whose reign has brought peace and progress to the Nupe Kingdom and beyond.
“Nupe indigenes lift their voices in gratitude and solemn choice. For in your strength, we see our part—a future bright, a nation’s heart,” Dr. Dabban declared in a goodwill message issued on behalf of the Dabban family and the people of Niger State.
He prayed for God’s blessings upon the monarch: “Your exemplary service, wisdom, and dedication to the Nigerian project continue to strengthen the fabric of our tradition and democracy.”
He prayed for God’s continued blessings upon the royal father, wishing him long life, sound health, and greater wisdom to guide his people and contribute to national unity.
Since ascending the throne in 2003, the former Army Brigadier General has championed peace, cultural preservation, and grassroots development, earning him respect not only among the Nupe but across Nigeria.
Profile: Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar, CFR — The 13th Etsu Nupe
Born: 12 September 1952 (73 years old)
Enthroned: September 2003, succeeding his uncle, Alhaji Umaru Sanda Ndayako.
Background: Retired Brigadier General, Nigerian Army.
Reign Highlights: Peace advocacy, interfaith dialogue, cultural revival, education, and youth empowerment.
National Role: Chairman, Coordinating Committee, National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria (NCTRN).
Legacy: A monarch who blends military discipline with cultural wisdom, preserving Nupe identity while promoting national unity.
