FUHSI Pro – Chancellor Extols Chief Bisi Akande at 87, Salutes His Enduring Legacy 

Describes him as one of the last towering figures who not only learned directly from Chief  Obafemi Awolowo but has faithfully lived, defended, and propagated the Awolowo School of Thought

By: Aminah Salako – Adekunle 

The Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of the Federal University of Health Sciences, Ila-Orangun (FUHSI), and APC chieftain, Prof. Wale Sulaiman, CON, has extolled the virtues of the former Governor of Osun State and former Interim National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Chief Abdulkareem Adebisi Bamidele Akande, CFR, describing him as one of the living disciples of the late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo.

In a statement he personally signed to mark the 87th birthday anniversary of the revered statesman and icon of progressive politics, Prof. Sulaiman noted that Chief Akande stands today as one of the last towering figures who not only learned directly from Chief Awolowo but has faithfully lived, defended, and propagated the Awolowo school of thought anchored on integrity, discipline, welfarism, and democratic socialism.

According to him, Baba Akande’s political life reflects the purest essence of Awolowo’s philosophy, where public office is viewed as a sacred trust and leadership is defined by service, accountability, and moral courage.

He described Chief Akande as a custodian of principled governance whose life and conduct have remained consistent with the values that shaped Western Nigeria’s legacy of free education, strong institutions, and responsible leadership.

Prof. Sulaiman posited that the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of the University of Ibadan is a statesman of rare depth, whose calm intellect, historical consciousness, and capacity to manage complex political issues have continued to earn him respect across generations.

 “Chief Akande’s tenure in public service, particularly as governor and party leader, demonstrated uncommon discipline, fiscal prudence, and the courage to take difficult decisions in the state and national interest”, he noted.

The renowned Neurosurgeon added that Chief Akande’s enduring relevance in national discourse is a testament to his wisdom, clarity of thought, and unwavering commitment to reform-driven leadership, making him a constant point of reference for young technocratic politicians and reform-minded leaders across the country.

Reflecting on a recent birthday visit to the elder statesman, Prof. Sulaiman said he was deeply inspired by Baba Akande’s ever-refreshing insights on politics, governance, and nation-building, noting that age has only sharpened his wisdom and perspective.

“Baba Akande is a national treasure, mentor, and moral compass for the progressive family,” the Pro – Chancellor reiterated.

Prof. Sulaiman joined fellow progressives, mentees, and well-meaning Nigerians in celebrating Chief Bisi Akande, praying for continued good health, sound mind, and many more years of impactful service to the nation and humanity.