Tinubu hails Soyinka, Folu Adeboye on 89th, 75th birthdays

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has poured encomiums on Nobel Laureate and elder statesman, Prof. Wole Soyinka, and wife of General Overseer of Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Folu Adeboye on their 89th and 75th birthdays respectively.

This was contained in separate statements signed by the Special Adviser to the President on Special Duties, Communications and Strategy, Dele Alake.

The president described Soyinka as a veritable source of support, inspiration and encouragement, describing him as a brother and comrade in the struggle for the restoration and entrenchment of democracy and good governance in Nigeria.

The president also also commended the Nobel laureate for his immense contributions to the country’s development.

“Today, I celebrate Nobel Laureate, elder statesman and pro-democracy activist, Prof. Wole Soyinka, on his attainment of 89.

“Renowned playwright, poet, novelist, Professor Wole Soyinka has done a lot for Nigeria. In the literary world, he remains a giant, an Iroko. Importantly, his contributions to the struggle for the restoration and institutionalization of democracy and good governance in Nigeria are indelible.

“Together, along with other activists, we fought for democracy under the aegis of NADECO at great risks to our personal lives.

“Professor Soyinka remains a beacon and a source of inspiration and support to many of us.

“As he attains 89 today, we pray that God Almighty grant him more years and strength so he can be around to witness the new Nigeria we are building in line with our Agenda for a Renewed Hope for the country, where security, prosperity and economic development will reign supreme,” Tinubu said.

The President also praised Adeboye, for her Christian virtues, devotion to her highly-respected husband, the church and family values on the anniversary of her birthday.

He noted with admiration many of the outreach programmes of the Redeemed Christian Church of God targeted at rehabilitating drug addicts and the poor spearheaded by Mrs. Adeboye.

“I celebrate this Godly woman, Pastor Folu Adeboye, on the occasion of her 75th birthday. We are inspired by her devotion to the work of God, family values and the downtrodden among us. Mrs. Adeboye’s generosity of spirit and unflinching commitment to seeing that young people live value-guided life will continue to be a guide and beacon to many.

“Through her many philanthropic work and that of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, many lives have been turned around for good.

“I join family, friends and admirers all over the world to wish Pastor Folu many more years in good health and more service in the vineyard,” the president said.