President Bola Tinubu has extended congratulations to Olori Onikepo Olufunmike Akande, OON, CON, as she joyously celebrates her 80th birthday on October 29.

A true trailblazer, Onikepo Akande made history as Nigeria’s first female Minister of Industry and the second woman to lead the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

Her huge achievements have paved the way for many women in leadership roles across the nation.

In honouring Olori Akande, President Tinubu emphasizes her significant contributions to both the public and private sectors in Nigeria.

Known affectionately as Nike, she is highly respected not just for her professional accomplishments but also for her integral role in her community and family life.

As the Iyalaje Iyalode of Ibadanland, Nike Akande is revered as a remarkable leader and an influential figure within her community.

She is a devoted wife to Oba Adebayo Akande, the Ekaarun Olubadan of Ibadanland, and takes great pride in her roles as a mother and grandmother, cherishing the achievements of her family.

Nike Akande’s career began in the early 1990s, when she held key positions as a director of the National Insurance Corporation of Nigeria (NICON) and the Nigeria Industrial Development Bank, now recognized as the Bank of Industry.

Her contributions extended beyond these roles as she served on the Board of Trustees for the National Centre for Women Development in Abuja from 1992 to 1994.

Her efforts during this period were crucial in promoting women’s empowerment and development across the country.

President Tinubu commends Nike Akande for her exceptional service in various capacities, including as a boardroom leader, public administrator, community advocate, philanthropist, and business executive.

Her tenure as Minister of Industry is particularly noteworthy; during this time, she dedicated herself to fostering economic progress and innovation in Nigeria, establishing policies that would benefit both businesses and the broader community.

Nike Akande’s academic credentials, which include an education from Harvard University, have further solidified her reputation as a leader in investment and economic development.

Her work has garnered numerous accolades both nationally and internationally, particularly for her initiatives aimed at empowering women in commerce and entrepreneurship.

She has served as an inspiration for many aspiring female leaders and entrepreneurs, demonstrating the impact of dedication and hard work.

In his message, President Tinubu expresses profound gratitude to Nike Akande for her commitment to mentoring and uplifting others in society.

He describes her as a role model for countless women throughout Nigeria, highlighting the importance of her contributions to the nation’s development.

The President honours Nike Akande not only for her professional achievements but also for embodying values of beauty, diligence, courage, affection, and kindness.

He acknowledges her exemplary role as a supportive partner to a respected traditional ruler and as a nurturing mother whose children have achieved remarkable success in their respective fields.

As part of his tribute, President Tinubu prays for God Almighty to bless Nike Akande with continued health and longevity.