By Chesa Chesa
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated Nigerian music legend, Chief Sunday Adeniyi Adegeye, popularly known as King Sunny Ade, on his 80th birthday.
In a birthday message issued on Tuesday, President Tinubu described the juju music maestro as an icon of Nigerian and African music who had exemplified musical excellence and cultural ambassadorship over eight decades.
The President said King Sunny Ade had enriched Nigeria’s cultural heritage and brought joy to millions across generations through his talent, creativity, discipline and enduring passion for music.
He noted that the legendary musician transformed juju music into a globally recognised Nigerian cultural treasure, taking the richness of Nigerian culture to audiences across the world.
According to Tinubu, King Sunny Ade’s distinctive sound, masterful blend of guitar, talking drums and other traditional instruments, as well as his mesmerising dance steps and innovative approach to music, had earned him a distinguished place in the history of African arts and entertainment.
“Beyond your musical accomplishments, you have remained a proud ambassador of Nigeria, demonstrating through your career that our cultural heritage can transcend borders and speak powerfully to people everywhere,” the President said.
Tinubu also commended the musician’s contributions to Nigeria’s creative industry, saying his music had inspired generations of musicians and practitioners while preserving the country’s cultural identity and celebrating its traditions.
“Your music has not only entertained, but it has also preserved our cultural identity, celebrated our traditions and projected the beauty and diversity of our country to the world,” he said.
The President said his administration recognised and celebrated the contributions of Nigeria’s cultural icons, adding that King Sunny Ade’s 80th birthday was an opportunity to appreciate his enduring legacy.
“At 80, you embody excellence, perseverance and service to the arts. Your achievements remind us that talent, when combined with dedication and commitment to one’s heritage, can become an enduring national legacy,” Tinubu said.
He congratulated the music icon on behalf of his family, the Federal Government and the people of Nigeria, and prayed for his continued good health, wisdom and many more fulfilling years.
