President Bola Tinubu has joined millions of global fans of King Sunday Ade, KSA, to honour and celebrate his 80th birthday, with worthy tributes to the legendary Nigerian musician.
The President, in a State House press statement signed and released by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on information and Strategy, said that the two-time Grammy Awards Nominee, exemplify a life of musical excellence and cultural ambassador.
I warmly celebrate Chief Sunday Adeniyi Adegeye, the legendary King Sunny Ade and an icon of Nigerian and African music, on his 80th birthday.
For eight decades, you have exemplified musical excellence and cultural ambassadorship, enriched our nation and bringing joy to millions across generations. Through your extraordinary talent, creativity, discipline and enduring passion, you transformed juju music into a globally recognized Nigerian cultural treasure.
As one of Africa’s most celebrated entertainers, you have brought the richness of our culture to audiences worldwide. Your distinctive sound, masterful blend of guitar, talking drums and other traditional instruments, mesmerising dance steps, and innovative approach to music have earned you a distinguished place in the history of African arts and entertainment.
President Tinubu acknowledged that beyond KSA’s musical accomplishments, he has remained a proud ambassador of Nigeria, demonstrating through his career that our cultural heritage can transcend borders and speak powerfully to people everywhere.
Your remarkable contributions to the Nigerian creative industry have inspired generations of musicians and practitioners. 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.
As President, I deeply recognise and celebrate the immense contributions of our cultural icons. On this important milestone, I am especially grateful to God for the grace He has given you.
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.
On behalf of my family, the Government and the people of Nigeria, I extend my heartfelt congratulations. May Almighty God bless you with good health, wisdom and many more fulfilling years.
