The Governor of Lagos State and the Chairman of the South-West Governors Forum, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has congratulated elder statesman and the first interim National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Chief Bisi Akande, on his 87th birthday.
He described the former Osun State Governor, who clocks 87 on Friday, as an advocate of good governance, an epitome of true federalism, a true democrat and a respected political icon who has impacted many lives positively in Nigeria through politics and governance.
Governor Sanwo-Olu, in a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, on Friday, said Chief Bisi Akande, popularly known as ‘Baba Omo kekeke’, is a role model to many people for his courage and dedication to the public interest.
He also commended Chief Akande for his commitment to public service, especially during his tenure as the first Governor of Osun State in the current Fourth Republic, adding that he remains a beacon of hope for younger generations in a country where many believe that politics is a means for personal acquisition.
The Governor further praised Chief Akande for the significant role he played in the formation of the ruling All Progressives Congress as the first interim National Chairman of the party. He also commended him for the elderly role he has been playing to sustain APC in Osun State, the South-West and Nigeria at large.
He said: “On behalf of my family, the government and the people of Lagos State, as well as the leaders and members of the All Progressives Congress, I congratulate our father, Chief Bisi Akande, on his 87th birthday.
“Chief Bisi Akande is a true democrat and a respected political icon who has remained in the progressive camp and contributed immensely to political development and governance in Nigeria for over five decades. He is an advocate of good governance, restructuring and true federalism in Nigeria.
“He was an extraordinary public servant and administrator whose commitment to selfless public service remains a lesson for those of us currently in public office and those who aspire to public service. He served the people of Osun State passionately as the Secretary to the State Government and first civilian Governor in the current Fourth Republic.
“All through his long years of exemplary service and the pro-democracy struggle, Chief Bisi Akande remained consistent and was a dependable man of integrity. He is bold and courageous.
“I rejoice with Chief Bisi Akande on his 87th birthday. I wish him good health so we can continue to benefit from his deep knowledge and worthy example. I pray for renewed strength for our ‘Baba Omo Kekeke’ to render more service to humanity and our dear country.”
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
SPECIAL ADVISER – MEDIA AND PUBLICITY
16 JANUARY 2025
