‘Symbol of beauty, courage,’ Tinubu celebrates ex-minister Akande on 80th birthday
Ex-Minister Olori Onikepo Olufunmike Akande
Published By: Ayorinde Oluokun
Ayorinde Oluokun/Abuja
President Bola Tinubu has highlighted the trailblazing record and contributions to public and private sectors of Olori Onikepo Olufunmike Akande as she marks her 80th birthday on 29 October.
The President in a congratulatory birthday message signed by Bayo Onanuga, his spokesperson, on Monday noted that as a true pioneer, Onikepo Akande holds the honour of being Nigeria’s first female Minister of Industry and the second female President of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce & Industry.
President Tinubu further noted that Olori Akande who is affectionately known as Nike is revered not only as an exceptional leader but also as the Iyalaje Iyalode of Ibadanland, a devoted wife to Oba Adebayo Akande, the Ekaarun Olubadan of Ibadanland, a proud mother, and beloved grandmother.
“In the early 1990s, she served as a director of the National Insurance Corporation of Nigeria (NICON) and the Nigeria Industrial Development Bank (NIDB), now known as the Bank of Industry. She was also a member of the Board of Trustees of the National Centre for Women Development in Abuja from 1992 to 1994,” Tinubu noted.
The President therefore Tinubu commended her exceptional service as a boardroom player, public administrator, community leader, philanthropist, and business executive.
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“President Tinubu also praises Nike Akande for her tenure as Minister of Industry, acknowledging her dedication and commitment to driving progress in the nation.
” Her remarkable career, bolstered by her Harvard education and expertise in investment, has earned her numerous national and international accolades, particularly in empowering women in commerce and entrepreneurship.
“The President expresses deep gratitude to Nike Akande for her unwavering commitment to mentoring and uplifting others, asserting she is a role model to countless women across Nigeria.
“He honours the Iyalaje Iyalode of Ibadanland as a symbol of beauty, diligence, courage, affection, and kindness. President Tinubu also notes her exemplary role as a supportive wife to a respected traditional ruler and as a mother whose children have achieved great success.
“The President prays to God Almighty to bless Nike Akande with continued health and longevity, allowing her to share her inspiring life story and encourage others to embrace optimism and resilience,” the statement concluded.
