President Bola Tinubu has conferred on the Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona, the national honour of the Grand Commander of the Order of Niger (GCON) to mark the monarch’s 90th birthday celebration.

Tinubu made the announcement at the Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago-Iwoye in Ogun State during the commissioning of the Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona School of Governance Studies and the presentation of a book titled, “Reinventing Governance in Nigeria: The Oba (Dr.) Sikiru Kayode Adetona Model”.

Tinubu, who was represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, said the monarch deserved the second highest honour in the country because of his contribution to nation-building and meritorious service to humanity.

He noted that the numerous contributions of Adetona to national development, particularly in the education sector has expanded the sector to optimal delivery through various donations and endowments.

Tinubu described Awujale as forthright with exceptional character who stood his ground and confronted injustice in all ramifications, commending him for his role in ensuring the return of democratic governance in Nigeria.

President Tinubu averred that Oba Sikiru Adetona School of Governance Studies would be taken over and managed by the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) in Kuru, Jos, the Plateau State capital.

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He said: “Because Kabiyesi Adetona has honored our country and humanity with his many years of meritorious service, I, therefore, on this occasion of his 90th birthday ceremony confer on him the second highest National honour of Grand Commander of the Order of Niger (GCON).

“The National Institute of Policy and Strategic Studies, Kuru, Jos, will be asked to take over the running and management of Oba Sikiru Adetona School of Governance Studies.”

In his remarks, Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun described Awujale as a living legend and a phenomenon whose reign has been a monumental success and a pride to the entire Ijebuland and the state at large.

Also speaking, the Pro-Chancellor of the university, Prof. Toyin Ashiru, said the establishment of the School of Governance is aimed at fostering dialogue among scholars, policy makers, and practitioners on matters of governance, leadership and public service, adding that it would serve as a hub for research, knowledge sharing and capacity building to equip people with the required skills for effective governance.

Responding, Oba Adetona appreciated the people for their support and for honouring him with their presence and prayed for the peace in the families, state, and the country.

The Star