President Bola Tinubu has celebrated the former Governor of Ekiti State, Kayode Fayemi, describing him as an enviable leader who has contributed immensely to the growth and development of the country.
The president gave the tribute at an event held in Abuja on Thursday to celebrate Fayemi’s 60th birthday and the official launch of the Amandla Institute for Policy and Leadership Advancement.
In attendance were former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon; ex-Senate President, Dr Bukola Saraki; Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo; his counterpart in Ekiti, Biodun Oyebanji; Emir of Kano, Sanusi Lamido; the pioneer National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, John Odigie-Oyegun, former Minister of Finance, Kemi Adeosun among others.
Tinubu, who was represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, also urged past and present political leaders to emulate him by setting aside their differences and working for the common good of Nigerians.
He said, “I urge you, including this esteemed gathering and intellectuals, irrespective of political differences and affiliations, to work together. What binds us together supersedes the interests that can divide us. I beg you in the name of God. Let us unite for a common good for our people.
“The world has never suffered from a scarcity of ideas. Nations and civilisations have risen on the strength of visionaries, and they have also crumbled under the weight of ideas left in the dusty cupboard of time. But today, the world as we know it is bowing to a reality in which we cannot afford to be freeloading bystanders.
“As we honour the Fayemis, let us channel their restlessness. Let this symposium be remembered not for its eloquence but for its ignition. The Amandla Institute must become a command centre for the continent, turning thinkers into doers, policies into progress, and Pan-African ideals into lived realities.”
(The PUNCH)
