President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has felicitated with Chief Bisi Akande, elder statesman, former Governor of Osun State, and the first Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), as he celebrates his 87th birthday today.

In a statement, President Tinubu hailed Baba Akande for his remarkable contributions to Nigeria’s democracy, the growth and development of the nation, and the institutionalisation of the progressive movement.

“Fired by Chief Obafemi Awolowo’s political vision and ideology, Baba Akande began his career as an accountant with British Petroleum before dedicating himself fully to public service,” the President noted. “He served as Secretary to the State Government in old Oyo State in 1979, later became Deputy Governor, and went on to govern Osun State from 1999 to 2003.”

President Tinubu highlighted Baba Akande’s pivotal role as Interim Chairman of APC, describing him as a key architect of the party’s historic victory in 2015, which unseated an incumbent federal government for the first time in Nigeria’s political history.

“He remains a mentor and leader, exemplifying integrity, honesty, and a steadfast belief in values that ennoble the nation,” the President said, adding that Baba Akande’s guidance has been instrumental in his own political journey and in advancing the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

Despite reaching 87, Chief Akande continues to be an active advocate for democracy, social justice, and good governance, President Tinubu observed, praying for his good health and renewed strength.