President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has heartily congratulated elder statesman and Afenifere leader, Reuben Fasoranti, as he marks his 100th birthday on May 11, describing him as a symbol of integrity, principled leadership and unwavering service to Nigeria.
In a State House statement issued on Sunday, Tinubu said his joy “knows no bounds” to witness Fasoranti attain the historic milestone, praising the centenarian’s remarkable contributions to education, politics, pro-democracy activism and national development.
The President said Fasoranti’s life remains a powerful metaphor for honesty, discipline and commitment to noble causes, noting that his legacy has continued to shape both the Yoruba nation and Nigeria’s democratic journey.
Tinubu recalled that Fasoranti embraced education early as a tool for societal transformation. He highlighted the elder statesman’s academic path from the University of Ibadan to the University of Hull, as well as further studies in Australia, before building a distinguished career in teaching and educational administration.
He also celebrated Fasoranti’s enduring footprints in the education sector, including his service at Ondo Boys’ High School and the establishment of schools in Akure, which he said have continued to impact generations of Nigerians.
Beyond education, Tinubu said Fasoranti made an even greater mark in politics and public service. A disciple of late nationalist leader Obafemi Awolowo and one of the last surviving Awoists, he served in the defunct Action Group and later the Unity Party of Nigeria.
The President noted that between 1979 and 1983, Fasoranti served as Commissioner for Finance in old Ondo State under late Governor Adekunle Ajasin, where his financial prudence and integrity helped stabilise the state’s finances.
Tinubu further recalled Fasoranti’s prominent role during the dark years of military rule, describing him as one of the rallying voices against dictatorship and a leading figure in the struggle for the restoration of democracy.
He said Fasoranti later emerged as the widely recognised leader of Afenifere after the death of Abraham Adesanya, adding that his voice remains highly respected across the country.
The President also reflected on the personal trials the elder statesman endured, including an assassination attempt during the regime of late military ruler Sani Abacha, the death of his wife in 1991, and the killing of his daughter, Funke Olakunrin, by kidnappers in 2019.
“Pa Fasoranti weathered the storms, and he is soldiering on,” Tinubu said.
The President used the occasion to express personal gratitude to the Afenifere patriarch for his support and prayers throughout his political journey.
Tinubu recalled visiting Fasoranti in Akure at the start of his presidential campaign, where the elder statesman prayed that he would live to witness his emergence as President — a prayer he said was fulfilled.
“I thank Baba for his prayers, his belief in my vision, and his continued support for our Renewed Hope Administration,” Tinubu said.
He prayed for God to preserve Fasoranti for many more years, saying Nigeria continues to benefit from the wisdom, courage and moral authority of the revered nationalist.
