Danladi Bako, quintessential broadcaster at 69

Mallam Nasir Danladi Bako, PhD, OON, is a remarkable individual with a diverse career spanning journalism, sports, administration, lecturing, and humanitarian work. Born on September 1, 1957, in Sokoto, Kano, and Kaduna, Bako grew up in these Nigerian cities before gaining admission to the School of Basic Studies at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. After graduating in English in 1978, he pursued a Master of Science in Mass Communication at the University of Lagos, completing his studies in 1981.

Bako began his career at Radio Nigeria, Sokoto (now Rima Radio) in 1973 as a studio manager, reporter, and continuity announcer. He later joined NTA Sokoto in 1976, becoming one of the station's most decorated staff members. In 2006, he received the National Honour, Officer of the Order of the Niger. Bako's career includes numerous award-winning productions such as "Take a Chance," "Behind the Headlines," and "Softline." He also produced pioneering programs like "Morning Ride" and "MASTERSPORTS."

During his tenure as Senior Special Assistant to the Hon Minister of Youth and Sports from 1994, Bako played a crucial role in Nigeria's success at the 1996 Atlanta Olympic Games, where the Nigerian football team won its first gold medal. He served as Director General, National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) from 1999 to 2002 and later as Commissioner for Information, Sokoto State from 2012 to 2015.

Throughout his career, Bako has attended over 50 national and international conferences, traveled extensively, and delivered lectures at prestigious institutions like Harvard University and Columbia University. As a member of the Sultan's delegation, he has visited notable locations such as Clarence House and the Wilson Center. In recent years, Bako has returned to Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, to pursue a PhD in Development Communication and teaches Mass Communication at Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto.