Tinubu Felicitates Olori Onikepo Akande on her 80th Birthday

President Bola Tinubu extends heartfelt congratulations to Olori Onikepo Olufunmike Akande, OON, CON, as she joyfully celebrates her 80th birthday on October 29.

A true pioneer, Onikepo Akande is celebrated as Nigeria’s first female Minister of Industry and the second female President of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

In his tribute, President Tinubu emphasizes Olori Akande’s groundbreaking achievements and her significant contributions to both Nigeria’s public and private sectors.

Affectionately known as Nike, she is not only revered as an exceptional leader but also holds the title of Iyalaje Iyalode of Ibadanland. She is a devoted wife to Oba Adebayo Akande, the Ekaarun Olubadan of Ibadanland, and a proud mother and grandmother.

In the early 1990s, she served as a director at the National Insurance Corporation of Nigeria (NICON) and the Nigeria Industrial Development Bank (NIDB), now known as the Bank of Industry. Additionally, she was a member of the Board of Trustees for the National Centre for Women Development in Abuja from 1992 to 1994.

President Tinubu commends her outstanding contributions as a boardroom leader, public administrator, community advocate, philanthropist, and business executive.

He also recognizes Nike Akande’s impactful tenure as Minister of Industry, highlighting her dedication to advancing the nation’s progress.

Her remarkable career, strengthened by her education at Harvard and expertise in investment, has garnered her numerous national and international accolades, particularly in empowering women in commerce and entrepreneurship.

The President expresses deep gratitude for Nike Akande’s unwavering commitment to mentoring and uplifting others, affirming her role as a beacon of inspiration for countless women across Nigeria.

He honors the Iyalaje Iyalode of Ibadanland as a symbol of beauty, diligence, courage, compassion, and kindness. President Tinubu acknowledges her exemplary role as a supportive wife to a respected traditional ruler and as a mother whose children have excelled.

He prays to God Almighty to grant Nike Akande continued health and longevity, allowing her to share her inspiring life story and encourage others to embrace optimism and resilience.