President Bola Tinubu on Thursday issued two separate tributes honouring two prominent Nigerians marking milestone birthdays — renowned industrialist and philanthropist, Prince Samuel Adedoyin, who turns 90, and veteran nationalist, Alhaji Tanko Yakasai, who clocks 100.
In a statement celebrating Prince Samuel Adedoyin, founder of the Doyin Group, President Tinubu described him as a “national icon” whose decades-long contributions to Nigeria’s manufacturing sector have shaped the country’s economy and inspired generations.
Tinubu praised Adedoyin’s entrepreneurial resilience, integrity and generosity, noting that his business empire has created opportunities for thousands, while his philanthropic work in education and community development has transformed lives.
Calling him “one of Nigeria’s finest examples of industry and patriotic commitment”, the President recounted Adedoyin’s journey from Agbamu in Kwara State to Lagos as a teenager, where he built a multi-decade legacy as one of the state’s most admired business figures.
Tinubu also spoke of his personal relationship with the nonagenarian, commending his character and strength in adversity.
“I welcome Baba Adedoyin to the grand club of nonagenarians,” he said, wishing him continued grace and good health.
In a separate tribute, President Tinubu honoured Alhaji Tanko Yakasai, describing the 100-year-old elder statesman as “the last man standing” among the nationalists who confronted colonial injustice to secure Nigeria’s freedom.
Tinubu traced Yakasai’s life from humble beginnings in Kano to his frontline activism in the Northern Elements Progressive Union (NEPU) under Mallam Aminu Kano, where he campaigned for liberation and political awakening across Northern Nigeria.
He highlighted Yakasai’s post-Independence public service, including his tenure as Kano State Commissioner under Governor Audu Bako and later as Special Assistant on National Assembly Liaison to President Shehu Shagari.
