President Bola Tinubu has said that former National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Chief Bisi Akande, played a guiding role in his political journey.

 

 

The President made this known in a statement to mark Akande’s 87th birthday, in which he praised the elder statesman’s contributions to Nigeria’s democratic development and the formation of the APC.

 

Tinubu described Akande as a mentor, leader and steadfast advocate of democracy, social justice and good governance, noting his enduring influence on the nation’s political evolution.

 

 

“Baba Akande has contributed immensely to the growth and development of this country and to the emergence and institutionalisation of democracy,” the president said.

 

He highlighted Akande’s long record of public service, recalling his roles as Secretary to the State Government in the old Oyo State in 1979, Deputy Governor during the Second Republic, and Governor of Osun State from 1999 to 2003.

 

 

Tinubu also acknowledged Akande’s role as the first National Chairman of the APC, crediting his leadership with laying the foundation for the party’s historic victory in 2015, which led to the defeat of an incumbent federal government.

 

According to the President, Akande remains a strong voice for democratic ideals even at 87.

 

“Even at 87, Baba Akande remains a strident advocate, supporter and fighter for the ideals of democracy, social justice and good governance,” Tinubu said.

 

 

He added that Akande’s mentorship and guidance were instrumental to his own rise to the presidency.

 

The President prayed for good health and renewed strength for Akande, while commending his continued support for the APC and the implementation of the Renewed Hope Agenda.