By Precious Igbonwelundu and Sampson Unamka

President Muhammadu Buhari yesterday said the works of legendary highlife musician Sir Victor Olaiya transcended the African continent and brought joy to people across the world.

The President stated this in a condolence message to Nigerians and the family of the late music legend who died at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) on Wednesday after a brief illness.

In a statement by his Special Adviser (SA) on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina, President Buhari urged younger generations of musicians to learn from Olaiya so that their songs can also remain evergreen and outlive them.

He described Olaiya, 89, as “the highlife maestro, known for his mastery of the trumpet, (who) brought joy and delight to people across generations, with his songs which were both entertaining and didactic”.

The President added: “His place in history is guaranteed. He sang, not just for the entertainment value, but also taught critical lessons on life, good neighbourliness, and national cohesion. He will be sorely missed.

“Noting that the departed musician’s works transcended Nigeria, the West Coast, and, indeed, the African continent, the President prays God to rest Olaiya’s soul, and comfort all those who mourn him.”

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Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi said: “Dr Olaiya’s name has been eternally etched in the Nigerian music hall of fame for creating an identity for himself as a multitalented musician.”

Information and Culture Minister Lai Mohammed described Olaiya’s death as a great loss to the creative industry.

“Sir Victor Olaiya was not just a musician but a great patriot, hence it was not a surprise that he played officially when the country became independent in 1960 and when it became a Republic in 1963,” he said.

Condoling the musician’s family, Senator Florence Ita-Giwa said: “His contribution to the enrichment of our national repertoire of music can never be downplayed. His brand of highlife music formed the sound track of my youth as I recall dancing to many of his hit tunes as a young lady.”

Ace Juju and gospel musician Ebenezer Obey described the late Oliaya as a good leader, a great entertainer who laid a good example for other African musicians to emulate.

Innocent Idibia (aka 2Baba), who did a collaboration with Olaiya, wrote: “Devastated by the news of your passing. Dr. Victor Olaiya – maestro, mentor, legend. Thanks for the beautiful music. Thanks for the inspiration. Blessed for the honour of sharing a mic and stage with you. Rest in peace baba.”

The Mayegun of Yoruba land, Dr Wasiu Ayinde (aka KWAM 1) said: “Indeed, Sir Victor Olaiya’s death, though at the advanced age of 89, is a profound loss to the Yoruba race and global music industry. We are nonetheless comforted by the fact that he used his talent to bless humanity in general.”