Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has congratulated Nigeria’s first female Minister of Industry and second female President of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Chief (Dr.) Onikepo Akande, on her 80th birthday. 

The Governor, in a statement issued on Tuesday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, described Akande, a renowned economist, accountant and industrialist, as a distinguished Nigerian who has served the country passionately and made significant contributions to the business world and society.

Governor Sanwo-Olu said Chief Onikepo Akande, the Iyalaje of Ibadanland, who turns 80 on Tuesday, deserves all the accolades for her immense and impactful contributions to the growth and development of Nigeria’s economy and governance. 

He said: “On behalf of my family, the government and the people of Lagos State, I congratulate the first female Minister of Industry, Chief (Dr) Onikepo Akande, on her 80th birthday.

“Dr. Onikepo Akande is worth celebrating on her 80th birthday based on her positive impact in the country. She has served Nigeria passionately and made significant contributions to the business world and society. She is an icon in the business world and beyond.

“She contributed positively to governance and nation-building as a Minister of Industry and later as delegate at the 2014 National Conference. 

“As Chief (Dr.) Onikepo Akande joins the league of octogenarians today, I pray that God will grant her good health to enable her to render more service to humanity, the business community, Lagos State and Nigeria as a whole.”

SIGNED

GBOYEGA AKOSILE

SPECIAL ADVISER – MEDIA AND PUBLICITY

29 OCTOBER 2024