The Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), His Eminence Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, has congratulated elder statesman and Afenifere leader, Chief Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, on his 100th birthday anniversary, describing him as a pride of Nigeria and a national asset.
In a statement issued on Tuesday in Kaduna, the Sultan said Fasoranti’s contributions to nation-building remained invaluable.
He noted that the elder statesman’s longevity and continued relevance in Nigeria’s political history, spanning the periods before, during and after the era of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo, reflected a life devoted to service, leadership and patriotism.
The Sultan commended Fasoranti for his contributions to education, governance and national development, recalling his pioneering role as the first principal of Anglican Grammar School, Iju-Itaogbolu, Akure North, in 1957.
He also praised the centenarian for his service as Commissioner for Finance in the administration of the late Chief Michael Adekunle Ajasin in the old Ondo State.
“Chief Reuben Fasoranti has served Nigeria with distinction and dedication. Having contributed immensely to the greatness of this country, it is only fitting that Nigeria continues to honor and celebrate him as one of its most distinguished elder statesmen,” the Sultan said.
He urged Nigerians committed to the unity, peace and progress of the country to continue to celebrate and pray for the elder statesman, while asking God to grant him strength and good health.
“We join his family, associates, admirers and all lovers of peace and unity in congratulating him on this remarkable milestone. We pray that Almighty God continues to bless him and make him a greater blessing to Ondo State and Nigeria as a whole,” he added.
The Chairman of the National Traditional Rulers Council of Nigeria also congratulated the government and people of Ondo, the Akure-speaking community and the immediate family of Fasoranti for the privilege of having such a distinguished personality among them.(NAN)
