President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has lauded elder statesman and Afenifere leader, Pa Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, as a rare Nigerian who gave his all to public service and served unblemished in every role he occupied.
In a glowing tribute to the nonagenarian on the occasion of his 99th birthday, President Tinubu extolled the Afenifere leader’s decades-long legacy of integrity, resilience, and unwavering commitment to progressive ideals.
“He is undoubtedly one of the rare Nigerians who gave all to public service and served unblemished at every opportunity,” the President said.
Highlighting Fasoranti’s resolute stance during Nigeria’s most turbulent political era, Tinubu recalled the veteran’s brave resistance to military tyranny during the dictatorship of General Sani Abacha.
“In Nigeria’s darkest hours of military dictatorship and tyranny unleashed by Late General Sani Abacha, Baba Fasoranti and his comrades at Afenifere and NADECO stood firm and unbowed. Baba and his colleagues’ resilience inspired and strengthened us, the younger ones,” he noted.
According to the President, Fasoranti has remained a steadfast symbol of leadership, grace, and purpose, serving as a model who shaped the values of generations of politicians and activists.
“Baba Fasoranti has been dependable, graceful, and a model of exemplary leadership in my decades of knowing him and in our close personal interactions,” Tinubu stated.
The President recounted his own personal bond with the Afenifere leader, especially during his presidential bid.
“When I decided to run for the presidency of Nigeria three years ago, I visited Baba Fasoranti at his residence in Akure. I remain deeply grateful for his blessings, unflinching support, and his belief in my vision for our country,” he said.
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President Tinubu praised Fasoranti’s professional and political achievements, noting that his early years as a teacher and school administrator laid the foundation for a lifelong commitment to community development.
“Baba’s career as a teacher, principal, and educationist reflects his commitment to public service. After retirement, he established Omolere Nursery School and Akure High School. Both schools still stand today as monuments to his outstanding legacy,” the President remarked.
Delving into the veteran’s political journey, Tinubu recalled Fasoranti’s active involvement in Chief Obafemi Awolowo’s Action Group and later the Unity Party of Nigeria.
He described him as one of Chief Awolowo’s most trusted allies, who went on to serve as Commissioner of Finance in Ondo State under the Ajasin administration.
“Baba Fasoranti’s distinguished tenure of sound fiscal management ensured the remarkable achievements recorded by the Ajasin administration and the faithful implementation of the UPN cardinal programmes—free education, free healthcare, rural development, and sustainable employment,” Tinubu said.
The President also acknowledged Fasoranti’s deep Christian faith and inner strength, especially in the face of personal losses.
“In times of personal loss and tragedy, Baba found strength in his Christian faith and has been a constant guide to all who continue to draw inspiration from his strength of character,” he said.
As Nigeria continues its journey through economic transformation, Tinubu said he was gratified that Fasoranti has lived to witness the current administration’s reform efforts.
“I am happy he is alive to see the work we are doing to revamp our economy and set Nigeria on the path of sustainable economic growth and development,” the President stated.
Tinubu called on all Nigerians to draw lessons from Fasoranti’s life of service, courage, and conviction.
“As we reflect on Baba Fasoranti’s life of service at age 99, may we find the courage to do the right things to better our people and the country.
“May his life inspire us to pursue public good with courage and conviction,” Tinubu added.