OYETOLA Salutes AKANDE @ 81 Says: He's bridge between old and new Nigeria

Governor Adegboyega Oyetola of the State of Osun has described former Governor of the State, Chief Bisi Akande as the bridge between the old and new Nigeria, saying he is committed to truth, the people and good governance in Osun in particular and Nigeria in general. 

Akande turns 81 on Thursday.

In a statement issued on Wednesday by his Chief Press Secretary, Ismail Omipidan, congratulating Baba Akande on his 81st birthday anniversary, Oyetola described the elder statesman as a worthy mentor to the new generation whom he (Akande) considers the strength and hope of the Nigeria that he is toiling for.

He added that "In a nation where his fellow octogenarians have retired from public service to the waiting arms of their grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Baba Akande still burns the midnight oil to brainstorm on the future of Nigeria, armed with his high mental acumen and disarming smile."

The governor further said: "It is obvious that God has been gracious to Baba Akande to be super active in old age because there is so much work to be done. We cannot thank God enough for His mercy and graciousness.

"Baba Akande is a detribalised Nigerian who sees the country's linguistic, ethnic and religious diversity as the nation’s greatest strength where Fifth Columnists capitalise on to tear the nation apart. And he is never tired to mend the fences broken by political pretenders, never tired to offer his voice of reason.

"Baba, we thank you for your service and sacrifice for the State of Osun and its people and Nigeria. As progressives and sons and your friends, we are all products of your enduring service and achievements.

"As you turn 81, I pray that Allah will continue to grant you the will and ability to continue with the good works you have been doing for humanity.

"On behalf of the Government and the good people of the State of Osun, I join other well-meaning Nigerians to celebrate the patriarch of the Progressives Family, the Encyclopedia of the Progressives Family, a Distinguished Son and Father of The State of Osun and elder statesman, Baba Adebisi Abdulkareem Akande on his 81st birthday anniversary.

"May Allah continue to grant you good health, wisdom and long life to join the lovers of Nigeria to take it to the Next Level," Oyetola added.