Tinubu, Sanwo-Olu, Others Felicitate APC’s First National Chairman Bisi Akande At 86

President Bola Tinubu on Thursday extolled the virtues of Chief Bisi Akande, the first National Chairman of the governing All Progressives Congress (APC), as he marked another birthday.

In a statement by Mr Bayo Onanuga, the President’s spokesman, Tinubu described Akande, who turned 86 on Thursday, as “a truly progressive and committed Awoist” who made tremendous contributions to the growth of Nigeria’s democratic governance, nation-building, and development.

The president, the statement indicated, said selfless service had been Akande’s watchword since he entered politics.

Akande was Secretary to the Government of Old Oyo State and later Deputy Governor.
He then served as Governor of Osun State from 1999 to 2003, Interim National Chairman of the APC, and now Chairman of the Governing Board of Nigeria’s premier University of Ibadan.

Underscoring Akande’s considerable contributions to the APC, the President commended him for his pioneering efforts, pivotal to the party’s victory in the 2015 and subsequent elections.

The president noted that Chief Akande had been a close ally and partner in establishing progressive good governance in the country.
He particularly recalled their days in the pro-democracy group, NADECO, during the struggle to restore democracy in the land, praising Akande for his leadership, direction, integrity, and wisdom.

Tinubu said Akande’s 86th birthday offered him a veritable opportunity to thank him again for his support and wise counsel in his political journey and rise to the presidency of Nigeria.

He wished Akande more grace and strength as he makes invaluable contributions to the country and impacts the younger generation.

Similarly, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos congratulated Akande, showered encomiums on Akande’s commitment, dedication, and contributions to politics and governance in Nigeria in the last four decades.

The governor, who is the Chairman, South-West Governors Forum, described the first elected governor of Osun State in the Fourth Republic as a true democrat, seasoned administrator, quintessential leader, and highly revered statesman.

He said that Akande held several public offices with passion, integrity and honesty.

“On behalf of my family, the government, and the people of Lagos State, I celebrate our leader and mentor, Chief Bisi Akande, who we fondly refer to as ‘Baba Omo kekeke,’ on his 86th birthday.

“Chief Bisi Akande is a revered statesman, a respected political figure and an advocate of good governance, who has made significant contributions to Nigerian politics and governance.

“Baba Akande’s dedication to public service, commitment to democracy and the rule of law, unwavering integrity and honesty have set a remarkable example for current and future public servants, particularly in the South-West.

“As Chief Bisi Akande clocks 86 today, I wish him good health and pray that God will grant him the grace and strength to celebrate more impactful years.

“We look forward to benefiting further from his wisdom and exemplary leadership,” Sanwo-Olu said in a statement by Gboyega Akosile, his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity.

A United Kingdom based organisation, Leaders Society Nigeria (LSN) also paid glowing tributes to its Patron, Chief Bisi Akande, on his 86th birthday anniversary.

LSN is a UK-registered organisation concerned with growing a committed, able and well-prepared political leadership in Nigeria.

The association’s President Dr Philip Ideawor in a statement through its Director of Operations and Projects, Mr Ayoola Lawal, described Akande as “a revered Patron of our society and an embodiment of excellence.”

Ideawor, the immediate past chairman of APC in the UK and former chairman of APC Forum of Diaspora Chairmen, stated that “Akande stands as a towering figure of leadership and dedication.

“From his esteemed family lineage of warriors and administrators to his impactful contributions to education, governance, and progressive politics, Chief Akande has personified integrity, courage, and a lifelong commitment to the betterment of our society.

“As a distinguished Associate Member of the Chartered Institute of Secretaries (ACIS) and a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Cost and Management Accountants, he exemplifies professional excellence and intellectual rigour.

“His journey from a young teacher in the transformative era of free primary education to his significant roles in the private and public sectors reflects an inspiring narrative of determination and visionary leadership.

“His life is replete with achievements: as a grassroots mobiliser, a respected governor, a founding pillar of progressive political parties, and the Founding National Chairman of APC.”

Ideawor stated that Akaande’s
leadership had paved the way for unprecedented infrastructural and social development, leaving an indelible mark on the nation’s history.

“Beyond politics and governance, Akande’s dedication to the cultural heritage and unity of the Yoruba people, demonstrated through his co-authorship of the Yoruba Agenda and traditional chieftaincy honours, underscores his deep-rooted commitment to preserving and advancing societal values.

“Today, as he celebrates his 86th birthday, we honour his legacy and wish him continued health, happiness, and peace.

“May his exemplary life inspire current and future generations to uphold the ideals of integrity, service, and progress for which he is deeply respected.

“Your contributions to Nigeria and humanity are unmatched, and your legacy will continue to shine brightly.”