The Governor of Lagos State and Chairman of the South-West Governors Forum, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has congratulated elder statesman and first interim National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Chief Bisi Akande, on his 87th birthday.
Governor Sanwo-Olu described the former Governor of Osun State, who turned 87 on Friday, as an advocate of good governance, a champion of true federalism, a committed democrat, and a respected political icon who has positively impacted many lives through politics and public service.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, the governor said Chief Akande, fondly known as “Baba Omo Kekeke,” remains a role model to many Nigerians due to his courage, consistency, and dedication to the public interest.
Sanwo-Olu commended Chief Akande’s commitment to selfless service, particularly during his tenure as the first civilian Governor of Osun State in the Fourth Republic, noting that he stands as a beacon of hope for younger generations in a political environment often perceived as driven by personal gain.
The Lagos governor also praised the elder statesman for his pivotal role in the formation of the APC, where he served as the party’s first interim National Chairman. He further acknowledged Chief Akande’s continued fatherly role in sustaining the party in Osun State, the South-West, and across Nigeria.
“On behalf of my family, the government and the people of Lagos State, as well as the leaders and members of the All Progressives Congress, I congratulate our father, Chief Bisi Akande, on his 87th birthday,” Sanwo-Olu said.
“Chief Bisi Akande is a true democrat and a respected political icon who has remained in the progressive camp and contributed immensely to political development and governance in Nigeria for over five decades. He is an advocate of good governance, restructuring, and true federalism in Nigeria.”
The governor described Chief Akande as an extraordinary administrator whose legacy of integrity, courage, and selfless service remains a lesson for current and aspiring public office holders.
“I rejoice with Chief Bisi Akande on his 87th birthday. I wish him good health so that we can continue to benefit from his deep knowledge and worthy example. I pray for renewed strength for our ‘Baba Omo Kekeke’ to render more service to humanity and our dear country,” Sanwo-Olu added.
