President Bola Tinubu on Sunday congratulated elder statesman and Afenifere leader, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, on his 99th birthday.
Tinubu conveyed his felicitations in a statement signed and released by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
“Today, I rejoice with the family, political associates, and friends of our dear father, leader and patriarch, Pa Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, as we celebrate his remarkable journey of 99 years on earth.
“Baba has enjoyed extraordinary grace from God in attaining this age. Even though he appears frail due to old age, his mind remains active and sharp.
“He is undoubtedly one of the rare Nigerians who gave all to public service and served unblemished at every opportunity.
“Baba’s career as a teacher, principal, and educationist reflects his commitment to public service and community development. After retirement, he established Omolere Nursery School and Akure High School. Both institutions still stand today as monuments to his outstanding legacy as a school administrator,” the statement read.
According to Tinubu, Fasoranti’s political journey is deeply rooted in Yoruba ideals of honour, integrity, and progressivism.
“As a committed political activist of his era, he joined Chief Obafemi Awolowo’s Action Group and later became one of the prime movers of the Unity Party of Nigeria led by Chief Awolowo. Throughout the sage’s life,
Baba Fasoranti remained one of his trusted allies.
“He served with honour as Commissioner for Finance in the government of our venerable leader, Chief Michael Adekunle Ajasin, between 1979 and 1983 in Ondo State.
“Baba Fasoranti’s distinguished tenure ensured sound fiscal management of the state’s finances and enabled the remarkable achievements recorded by the Ajasin administration, including the faithful implementation of the UPN’s cardinal programmes— free education, free healthcare, rural development, and sustainable employment.
“In Nigeria’s darkest hours under the military dictatorship of the late General Sani Abacha, Baba Fasoranti and his comrades in Afenifere and NADECO stood firm and unbowed. Their resilience inspired and strengthened us, the younger generation,” the statement added.
Tinubu noted that even in times of personal loss and tragedy, Fasoranti found strength in his Christian faith and has remained a constant guide to many who continue to draw inspiration from his character.
“Baba Fasoranti has been dependable, graceful, and a model of exemplary leadership in my decades of knowing him and in our close personal interactions.
“When I decided to run for the presidency of Nigeria three years ago, I visited Baba Fasoranti at his residence in Akure. I remain deeply grateful for his blessings, unwavering support, and his belief in my vision for our country.
“I am happy he is alive to see the work we are doing to revamp our economy and set Nigeria on the path of sustainable growth and development.
“As we reflect on Baba Fasoranti’s life of service at age 99 and his commitment to the public good, may we find the courage to do the right things to improve the lives of our people and the nation. May his life inspire us to pursue the public good with courage and conviction.
“Happy birthday to our dear leader and father. May our communities never lack wise elders such as Baba Fasoranti,” the statement concluded.