- You’re valuable brother and friend, Wike tell ex-gov
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike have congratulated former Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Ayo Fayose, on his 65th birthday, describing him as a courageous political figure whose resilience and consistency have left a distinct mark on Nigeria’s democratic landscape.
In a goodwill message personally signed by him and released yesterday, President Tinubu said it gave him “great pleasure to celebrate Osoko himself” on the milestone anniversary.
The President traced Fayose’s rise to national prominence to 2003, when he emerged as the second elected governor of Ekiti State at a time Tinubu was serving his second term as governor of Lagos.
He noted that despite the turbulence that marked the end of Fayose’s first tenure, including what he described as “the abuse of presidential powers,” the former governor showed unusual courage and calm in the face of adversity.
“In one of the great political comebacks of our time,” Tinubu said, Fayose returned to office in 2014 and made history as the first politician in Nigeria to defeat two incumbents in separate governorship contests.
Describing him as a man firmly rooted among his people, the President said Fayose’s popular cognomen, Ore Mekunnu (friend of the poor), speaks to his identity and political style.
“He is a colourful politician who has mastered the art of retail politics as a means of establishing a connection with the people,” he noted.
Tinubu said the former governor’s achievements in office, ranging from road infrastructure to improved access to education and healthcare, remain visible across Ekiti, adding that notable projects such as the State High Court Complex and the new governor’s office stand as testament to his record.
“As his elder brother, I value his support for me and my administration,” the President said, offering prayers for Fayose’s health and continued service to God and humanity.
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“Happy birthday, Osokomole!” Tinubu added
Also felicitating Fayose, Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom described him as “a valuable friend and brother, who will never pretend about where he stands on issues.”
In his letter of congratulation to the former governor, Wike said Fayose remained a reference point in politics and governance in Nigeria.
According to a statement issued yesterday by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and New Media, Lere Olayinka, the FCT Minister wrote; “From the deepest part of my heart, I congratulate you on the occasion of your 65th Birthday, coming up on November 15th, 2025.
“That you have attained this age is no doubt a confirmation of the grace the Almighty God has bestowed on you, and a challenge for more service to our country, Nigeria.
“No doubt, at 65, you have remained a reference point in politics and governance in Nigeria.
“You are such a valuable friend and brother, who will never pretend about where he stands on issues.
“Ayodele my younger brother, may you reach the age of your elder brother in good health, and may God continue to make your days on earth fruitful, with immeasurable blessings.
“To a dependable ally, whose yes is yes, and no is no, happy Birthday.”