• Rejoices with ex-defence minister, Badaru Abubakar and presidential aide on SDGs, Orelope-Adefulire, on their birthdays
Deji Elumoye in Abuja
President Bola Tinubu has felicitated Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Alhaji Adegboyega Isiaka Oyetola, on his 72nd birthday.
The President, in a statement issued on Tuesday by his Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, commended Oyetola’s commitment to advancing the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda through his stewardship of the ministry, where he continues to implement the Federal Government’s policies to unlock the enormous economic potential of the nation’s maritime sector.
Tinubu noted that under Oyetola’s leadership, the ministry has pursued initiatives that have helped improve efficiency in the maritime sector, attract investment, create jobs, and enhance the nation’s competitiveness in the global maritime industry.
The President also extolled the celebrant’s wealth of experience in public administration and governance, describing him as a renowned technocrat, shrewd administrator and committed patriot.
Oyetola has had a remarkable career in the insurance industry before entering the public service as Chief of Staff to the governor of Osun State. He was later elected governor of the state.
Tinubu said: “Your years of service to our country as an insurance icon, public servant and political leader demonstrate your commitment to the development and prosperity of Nigeria.
“As Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, you brought experience and dedication to the task of transforming our maritime sector into a major driver of economic growth, investment and employment.
“I commend your contributions to the Renewed Hope Agenda, and I encourage you to remain steadfast in the service of our nation.”
The President prayed that Almighty God will grant Oyetola good health, wisdom, and many more years of service to Nigeria and humanity.
Also on Tuesday, Tinubu congratulated Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, his Senior Special Assistant on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and former Deputy Governor of Lagos State, on her birthday on September 29, 2026.
The President described Princess Orelope-Adefulire as a dedicated public servant and development advocate whose contributions continue to support Nigeria’s inclusive and sustainable development efforts.
He lauded her commitment to advancing the implementation of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals in Nigeria, particularly initiatives targeted at improving the welfare and living conditions of vulnerable citizens and communities.
“I commend Princess Orelope-Adefulire’s efforts in the creation of the Presidential Council on SDGs and other advocacy groups to accelerate Nigeria’s progress towards the achievement of the SDGs and the 2030 Agenda with a focus on ‘Leaving No One Behind.’
“I believe she will continue to bring her experience, passion and commitment to bear in supporting the administration’s development agenda and Nigeria’s broader aspirations for sustainable growth. I wish her good health, wisdom, strength and many more years of purposeful service to our nation and humanity,” Tinubu further stated.
The President also rejoiced with former Governor of Jigawa State and erstwhile Minister of Defence, Alhaji Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, on his birthday.
Tinubu joined family, friends, and associates in celebrating a consummate administrator, successful industrialist, and dedicated statesman.
The President recalled with appreciation Alhaji Badaru’s meritorious service to the nation as Governor of Jigawa State from 2015 to 2023, where he distinguished himself through transformative interventions in agriculture, infrastructure, and social development, and as Minister of Defence from August 2023 to December 2025, where he served with patriotism and commitment to the nation.
He described Badaru, the Sardaunan Ringim, as an embodiment of humility, discipline and enterprise, who transitioned his success as founder of the Talamiz Group into impactful public service.
Tinubu commended his loyalty to the All Progressives Congress, including his current role as the Director-General of the Arewa for Asiwaju (A4A) campaign group.
The President prayed that Almighty Allah will grant the former Governor many more years in good health, renewed strength, and continued service to the nation.