Tinubu celebrates Femi Okunnu at 93, hails lifetime of service to nation
…lauds ex-works commissioner’s role in post-civil war infrastructure drive President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Thursday sent warm greetings to elder statesman and distinguished lawyer, Femi Okunnu, on the occasion of
...lauds ex-works commissioner’s role in post-civil war infrastructure drive
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Thursday sent warm greetings to elder statesman and distinguished lawyer, Femi Okunnu, on the occasion of his 93rd birthday, praising his enduring contributions to Nigeria’s infrastructure development, legal evolution and national unity.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President described Okunnu as a towering figure whose career, which began in the 1960s, left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s political and economic history.
Tinubu particularly highlighted Okunnu’s tenure as Federal Commissioner for Works between 1967 and 1971, a period during which he supervised the construction of major roads and bridges that laid the foundation for modern Nigeria’s infrastructural network.
“As Federal Commissioner of Works, Alhaji Okunnu oversaw landmark infrastructural projects that remain reference points in Nigeria’s development journey,” the statement said.
The President noted that beyond his role in public service, Okunnu distinguished himself in the legal profession. He was called to the English Bar on February 9, 1960, and admitted to the Nigerian Bar on September 16 of the same year, embarking on a career that would span decades of advocacy, mentorship and landmark litigation.
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Elevated to the rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) in July 1992, Okunnu handled cases that have become defining precedents in the country’s political and economic jurisprudence.
His contributions to legal scholarship through publications and mentorship were also acknowledged by the President.
Tinubu described the nonagenarian as a steadfast advocate of peace and unity, a voice of reason and wisdom, and a trusted counsellor to leaders across both the private and public sectors.
The President commended Okunnu’s unwavering commitment to nation-building, noting that his guidance and statesmanship have continued to resonate across generations.
“As he turns 93, we celebrate not only his longevity but also a life devoted to service, integrity and national development,” the statement added.
Tinubu prayed that Almighty God would grant the elder statesman renewed strength, good health and longer life to continue serving the nation and humanity.
