{"id":27219,"date":"2026-01-16T13:51:10","date_gmt":"2026-01-16T13:51:10","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/africa\/27219\/"},"modified":"2026-01-16T13:51:10","modified_gmt":"2026-01-16T13:51:10","slug":"towering-figure-in-nigerias-democratic-evolution-oyetola-greets-akande-at-87","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/africa\/27219\/","title":{"rendered":"‘Towering figure in Nigeria\u2019s democratic evolution’, Oyetola greets Akande at 87"},"content":{"rendered":"


\n <\/a><\/p>\n

Adegboyega Oyetola, the Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, has congratulated former governor of Osun State and renowned elder statesman Bisi Akande, as he marks his 87th birthday on January, 16, 2026.\n<\/p>\n

The Minister stated this in a press statement signed by Bolaji Akinola, his Special Adviser on Media, on Thursday.\n<\/p>\n

Read also:\u00a02027: Atiku\u2019s son dumps PDP for APC, endorses Tinubu for second term<\/a>\n<\/p>\n

In the statement, the Minister celebrated the revered political icon, who was the first national chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), describing Akande as a towering figure in Nigeria\u2019s democratic evolution and a principled leader whose life of service, integrity, and courage has left an indelible mark on governance and party politics in the country.\n<\/p>\n

\u201cChief Bisi Akande remains one of the finest examples of purposeful leadership and unwavering commitment to public service,\u201d Dr Oyetola said.<\/p>\n

\u201cHis contributions to the development of Osun State, his role in strengthening progressive politics in Nigeria, and his mentorship of generations of political leaders stand as enduring legacies worthy of celebration.\u201d <\/p>\n

Oyetola, who is the immediate past Governor of Osun State and leader of APC in the state, noted that Chief Akande\u2019s tenure as Governor of Osun State from 1999 to 2003 laid critical foundations for fiscal discipline, institutional reforms, and people-centred governance.\n<\/p>\n

He added that Akande\u2019s wisdom and steadfast guidance have continued to shape the direction of progressive politics at both state and national levels.\n<\/p>\n

\u201cEven at 87, Baba remains a voice of reason, courage, and clarity in our political space. His counsel is invaluable, and his life continues to inspire those of us privileged to follow in his footsteps,\u201d the Minister stated.\n<\/p>\n

Read also:\u00a0Akwa Ibom APC fires officer over dual membership<\/a><\/p>\n

The Minister prayed for God\u2019s continued grace upon Akande, wishing him good health, renewed strength, and many more years of purposeful living in service to humanity and the nation.<\/p>\n

Iwok Iniobong<\/a> <\/p>\n

With years of experience in Nigerian journalism, Iniobong Iwok has built a reputation for deep political insight, compelling storytelling, and consistent, fact-driven reporting.
\n
\nOver the years, he has gained extensive experience reporting and writing incisive political analysis. Iniobong has interviewed key political figures across Nigeria and covered major national events, including the 2019 and 2023 general elections.
\n
\nA versatile journalist, he also has strong experience in education reporting and sector analysis. His work reflects a deep commitment to good governance and public accountability.
\n
\nIniobong holds a B.Sc. in Sociology from the University of Ilorin and an M.Sc. in Sociology (Development Specialisation) from Lagos State University. <\/p>\n

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