President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has extended warm felicitations to the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Akinloye Owolabi Olakulehin (Ige Olakulehin I), on the occasion of his 90th birthday, which falls on July 5, as well as the first anniversary of his ascension to the throne on July 12.

In a statement issued on Thursday by his special adviser on information and strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu hailed the nonagenarian monarch as a “foremost traditional ruler, custodian of culture and tradition, and a revered elder statesman” whose life epitomises service, wisdom, and a steadfast dedication to national unity and communal progress.

“At 90, His Majesty embodies the rare blend of age-old wisdom, service, and enduring leadership through decades of selfless dedication to nation-building and community development,” President Tinubu said.

The president joined the people of Ibadanland, the wider Yoruba traditional institution, and admirers across the nation and beyond in celebrating what he called the “remarkable life and legacy” of the 43rd Olubadan

Reflecting on the monarch’s one year on the throne, President Tinubu praised Oba Olakulehin’s reign for its peace and commitment to the prosperity of his people, underscoring his importance as a symbol of cultural continuity and unity.

“Your Imperial Majesty, Oba Olakulehin, as you mark nine decades of a life well lived in service, sacrifice, and stewardship, and on your first anniversary on the throne of your forefathers, we honour not only your longevity but also your immense contributions to community development and national unity,” the President stated.

President Tinubu offered prayers for continued strength, sound health, and a long life for the monarch, expressing hope that his reign would remain a beacon of peace, pride, and prosperity for future generations.

The Olubadan, widely respected for his decades-long public service and devotion to Yoruba values, ascended the throne on July 12, 2024, succeeding the late Oba Lekan Balogun.