By Eze Nkechi
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has conferred Nigeria’s second most prestigious national honours award of the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON) on the paramount ruler of Ijebu land, Oba Sikiru Adetuna.
He conferred the national honours on the monarch at his 90th birthday celebration held on the main campus of the Olabisi Onabanjo University in Abeokuta, Ogun state.
The president, who was represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, extolled the sterling virtues of the royal father.
He said the national honours was bestowed on the nonagenarian in recognition of his long life of service to his people and the nation.
President Tinubu also recognised the role played by Oba Adetuna in the enthronement of democracy and good governance in Nigeria.
“He is a very courageous person that confronted injustice and fought for the restoration of democracy in our country,” he said.
The president directed the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies Kuru (NIPSS) to take over the management of the School of Governance Studies, a postgraduate learning department established by the Oba at the Olabisi Onabanjo University Ago Iwoye.
“Oba Sikiru Adetuna is a well-respected monarch, not just in Ogun state or Nigeria but beyond. We are today honouring him for his meaningful contribution to nationhood.
“In recognition of his support for education, I have directed the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies NIPSS Kuru, to take over the management of the postgraduate School of Governance Studies,” he said.
Alao speaking, Governor Dapo Abiodun hailed the commitment of the celebrant to good governance by sponsoring the establishment of a school of good governance studies at the Olabisi Onabanjo University Ago Iwoye.
He said Oba Adetuna is a promoter of religious harmony and justice.
While pouring encomiums on the monarch, the governor said: “Baba is a champion, a builder and a conqueror. I am indebted to him for his unwavering support for my administration.”
The governor said as a show of support, all permanent secretaries in the Ogun state civil service will be the first set of students at the Oba Sikiru Adetuna School of Governance Studies.
A former Governor of Ogun state, Olusegun Osoba, who proposed a toast for the celebrant, praised his hard work and dedication to serving his people.
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo presided over the cutting of the 90th birthday cake by Oba Adetuna.
