Abuja, Nigeria — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has praised Dr. Kayode Fayemi for his enduring contributions to Nigeria’s democratic growth and governance as the former Ekiti State governor celebrates his 60th birthday.
In a personal tribute, Tinubu described Fayemi as a visionary patriot whose impact on the nation will be remembered for generations.
Pro-Democracy Contributions
Reflecting on their shared experiences during Nigeria’s pro-democracy struggle in the 1990s, Tinubu acknowledged Fayemi’s brilliance and strategic leadership in setting up Radio Kudirat, a powerful voice against military dictatorship.
Named after Alhaja Kudirat Abiola, the station played a crucial role in rallying resistance against General Sani Abacha’s regime.
“Kayode’s commitment and strategic expertise were invaluable during those challenging times,” Tinubu remarked, recalling the threats activists faced while advocating for democratic freedom.
Champion of Democracy and Governance
Following Nigeria’s return to civilian rule in 1999, Fayemi founded the Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD), an organisation instrumental in promoting democratic ideals and peace-building across Africa.
Tinubu commended Fayemi’s transition from intellectual activism to political leadership, serving as Ekiti State governor and later as a federal minister.
“His resilience was evident when he contested and won the Ekiti governorship after a prolonged legal battle lasting over three years,” Tinubu stated, highlighting Fayemi’s determination in the face of political challenges.
During his two-term tenure, Fayemi navigated economic hurdles while driving development in the state.
Tinubu also recognized Fayemi’s pivotal role in Nigeria’s political evolution, particularly in the formation of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2013 and his contributions as director of policy in the 2015 presidential campaign that unseated the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
“His strategic efforts helped secure the first electoral defeat of an incumbent president in Nigeria’s history,” Tinubu noted.
The president also praised Fayemi’s humility and loyalty during the 2023 APC presidential primaries, where he stepped down in Tinubu’s favor, describing it as an act of selflessness and party unity.
As Fayemi marks this milestone, Tinubu expressed confidence in his continued contributions to Nigeria’s development, celebrating him as an academic, author, administrator, and development expert.
“His legacy will stand the test of time. On behalf of the nation, I wish him good health, strength, and fulfillment,” Tinubu concluded.
By Taiwo Olatinwo|February 10, 2025.
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