President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has paid glowing tribute to Chief Bisi Akande, elder statesman, former governor of Osun State and founding national chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), as he marks his 87th birthday on January 16, 2026.
In a statement released on Thursday, the President described Chief Akande as a central figure in Nigeria’s democratic evolution and one of the most influential architects of the country’s modern progressive political movement. He credited the veteran politician with decades of principled leadership, party building and unwavering commitment to democratic governance.
President Tinubu said Chief Akande’s political journey was deeply shaped by the ideals of Chief Obafemi Awolowo, whose philosophy of progressive governance, social justice and federalism inspired a generation of leaders across the South-West and beyond.
According to the President, Chief Akande’s early professional life began outside politics, working as an accountant with British Petroleum (BP), before he made a decisive shift into public service. Tinubu noted that Akande’s decision to enter politics reflected a broader desire to contribute meaningfully to nation-building rather than personal advancement.
His public service career formally began in 1979, when he was appointed Secretary to the State Government (SSG) in the old Oyo State at the onset of the Second Republic. He later served as Deputy Governor, gaining a reputation for discipline, administrative competence and fidelity to democratic ideals.
Chief Akande went on to serve as Governor of Osun State from 1999 to 2003, during Nigeria’s transition from military rule to civilian democracy. President Tinubu described that period as one marked by fiscal prudence, institutional rebuilding and a strong emphasis on accountability, despite the economic constraints faced by states at the time.
President Tinubu reserved special praise for Akande’s role in the formation and consolidation of the All Progressives Congress, Nigeria’s largest opposition coalition at the time of its creation.
As interim national chairman of the APC, Akande was instrumental in merging diverse political tendencies into a single, cohesive platform. Tinubu said Akande’s calm leadership, integrity and commitment to internal democracy laid the groundwork for the party’s national acceptance and eventual electoral success.
That effort culminated in the 2015 general election, when the APC achieved a historic victory by defeating an incumbent government at the federal level for the first time in Nigeria’s political history.
“We must thank Baba for his leadership, industry, hard work, wisdom and labour of love for our party and country,” President Tinubu said.
President Tinubu described Chief Akande as a mentor and moral compass, whose counsel and encouragement played a significant role in shaping his own political journey over several decades.
He said Akande’s reputation for integrity, honesty and ideological consistency earned him respect across party lines and generations of politicians.
According to the President, Akande’s guidance was particularly valuable during moments of political transition, party negotiations and strategic decision-making, adding that his influence extended beyond electoral politics to the broader struggle for democratic consolidation in Nigeria.
The President also acknowledged Chief Akande’s continued engagement in national affairs, noting that despite his age, the elder statesman remains active, energetic and vocal in advocating good governance.
Tinubu said Akande has been a consistent supporter of the current administration and the implementation of the Renewed Hope Agenda, describing his advice and encouragement as “tremendously helpful” in navigating the challenges of governance.
He added that Akande’s ongoing commitment reflects a lifelong dedication to democracy, social justice, and the welfare of ordinary Nigerians.
As Chief Akande marks his 87th birthday, President Tinubu offered prayers for good health, renewed strength, and continued wisdom, expressing hope that his legacy would continue to inspire younger generations of leaders.
Chief Bisi Akande remains one of the most influential figures in Nigeria’s contemporary political history, with a legacy closely tied to the rise of progressive politics, the survival of democratic ideals during difficult periods, and the institutional development of modern political parties.
His life and career, President Tinubu said, stand as a reminder that leadership anchored on principle, sacrifice, and service can leave an enduring imprint on a nation’s democratic journey.