Tinubu celebrates King Sunny Ade at 80, hails musical excellence

President Bola Tinubu has congratulated Nigerian music legend, Chief Sunday Adeniyi Adegeye, popularly known as King Sunny Ade, on his 80th birthday.

In a statement issued by the State House on Tuesday, Tinubu described the juju music icon as an exemplar of musical excellence and cultural ambassadorship.

The president said King Sunny Ade had enriched Nigeria and brought joy to millions of people across generations through his talent, creativity, discipline and enduring passion for music.

He said the musician transformed juju music into a globally recognised Nigerian cultural treasure through his innovative sound and incorporation of guitars, talking drums and other traditional instruments.

“Beyond your musical accomplishments, you have remained a proud ambassador of Nigeria, demonstrating through your career that our cultural heritage can transcend borders and speak powerfully to people everywhere,” Tinubu said.

Tinubu also praised the singer’s contribution to Nigeria’s creative industry, saying his music had inspired generations of musicians while preserving the country’s cultural identity and projecting its traditions and diversity to the world.

The president said his administration recognised the contributions of Nigeria’s cultural icons, describing King Sunny Ade’s 80th birthday as a milestone worthy of celebration.

“At 80, you embody excellence, perseverance and service to the arts. Your achievements remind us that talent, when combined with dedication and commitment to one’s heritage, can become an enduring national legacy,” he added.