20 Years After His Death, Yusuf Bala Usman’s Centre Organizes Memorial Symposium in Zaria
By Idris Umar, Zaria
In Zaria, a memorial symposium was held in honor of the late Dr. Yusuf Bala Usman, renowned historian and writer, who passed away 20 years ago. The event was organized by the Yusuf Bala Usman Centre, located in GRA Zaria, Kaduna State, to commemorate the remarkable contributions he made during his lifetime.
The symposium brought together scholars from various parts of Nigeria and abroad, with around 12 individuals presenting important academic papers, especially in the fields of history, politics, and social development.
Among the prominent speakers was Professor Attahiru Jega, former Chairman of Nigeria’s Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). He spoke on elections and the current state of Nigerian politics. In his address, he praised Yusuf Bala’s efforts in fighting injustice and raising public awareness. He also prayed for God’s mercy upon the late scholar and blessings for his family.
Also speaking, a veteran journalist from Jigawa State, Malam Sani Zarro, called on scholars to emulate the character of Yusuf Bala. He described him as someone who stood firmly for truth, rejected oppression, and consistently sought positive change in Nigeria. Zarro urged the organizing centre to continue its efforts, particularly by using media platforms to spread the kind of messages Yusuf Bala was known for during his lifetime.
The event was chaired by Malam Ibrahim Mu’azzam of the Center for Research and Documentation, Kano.
Among those who knew Yusuf Bala personally or worked with him were Ambassador Abdu A. Zango, Professor Watsi O. Alli, Professor Jibrin Ibrahim, Dr. Auwalu Anwar, Dr. Iyorchia Ayu, Oluwatosin Orimolade, Dr. Sama’ila Ibrahim, and others. Each of them spoke about the late scholar’s contributions to education and youth development.
In conclusion, the event ended peacefully and respectfully, in honor and remembrance of a man of notable character and legacy—Dr. Yusuf Bala Usman.
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