President Tinubu Celebrates Oba Rilwan Akiolu’s 80th Birthday
In a heartwarming tribute, Nigeria’s President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu has extended a warm felicitation to His Majesty, Oba Rilwan Akiolu of Lagos State, on the occasion of his 80th birthday.
In a statement issued Saturday, by President Bola Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, the President described Oba Akiolu as a long-time ally, friend, and confidant, a revered monarch, a wellspring of wisdom, and a staunch guardian of Lagos’ rich culture and traditions.
His words reflect a deep admiration and respect for Oba Akiolu and their enduring friendship and partnership which is said to have stood the test of time, solidifying into a bond that transcends mere acquaintanceship.
President Tinubu, with words that capture the essence of their relationship and highlights Oba Akiolu’s outstanding qualities said, “He is my confidant. He is a dear friend I hold in high esteem for his integrity, honour, and forthrightness. He is always generous with his wise counsel and always willing to offer his fatherly guidance.”
The President also stated that Oba Akiolu’s role as a defender of the truth and his people has made a significant impact, particularly during his (Tinubu’s) tenure as Lagos State Governor while acknowledging the invaluable support and counsel he received from the revered monarch during his time in office and crediting Oba Akiolu with contributing to the peace, progress, and development of Lagos Sate.
President Tinubu further extended his gratitude to the Eleko of Eko for his unwavering prayers and support, even during challenging times as he noted that the bond between the two leaders is fortified by a deep mutual respect and shared commitment to the betterment of Lagos and its people while praying for Oba Akiolu’s long life and continued prosperity on the throne of his fathers.
The statement read:
“President Bola Tinubu celebrates his long-time ally, friend, and confidant, His Majesty, Oba Rilwan Akiolu of Lagos State, on his 80th birthday.
“President Tinubu describes the revered monarch as a fountain of wisdom, knowledge, and a staunch custodian of the rich culture and traditions of Lagos.
“Oba Akiolu and I have come a long way. He is my confidant. He is a dear friend I hold in high esteem for his integrity, honour, and forthrightness. He is always generous with his wise counsel and always willing to offer his fatherly guidance.
“Baba is a defender of the truth and his people. My achievements as Lagos State Governor are partly due to his support and counsel. His Majesty’s reign has brought peace, progress, and development to the good people of Lagos,” the President says.
“The President thanks the Eleko of Eko for his unceasing prayers and support, recalling his interventions over the years, even in trying times.
“Today, I celebrate an extraordinary monarch whose wit and foresight are peerless. May His Majesty live long, and may his reign on the throne of his fathers continue to be prosperous,” President Tinubu prays.
“The Oba of Lagos is a monarch of many achievements. He rose to the pinnacle of his professional career, retiring as an Assistant Inspector-General of Police. The Oba is a fellow of the Nigerian Law School.”