ABUJA, Nigeria (FN) — President Bola Tinubu has congratulated Nigerian business magnate and philanthropist Sir Kessington Adebutu on his 90th birthday, describing him as a “patriot and elder statesman whose generosity has touched countless lives.”
In a statement issued Friday by presidential spokesperson Ajuri Ngelale, Tinubu praised Adebutu’s pioneering role in developing Nigeria’s modern lotto industry, saying his innovation “created jobs, sustained families, and inspired young Nigerians to believe in enterprise and diligence.”
“Through his admirable personality, business acumen, resilience, and benevolent spirit, Chief Adebutu distinguished himself as one of Nigeria’s most outstanding entrepreneurs,” Tinubu said. “His remarkable contributions to business, philanthropy, culture, and national development are footprints that will endure across generations. Through hard work and consistency, he became a national icon and role model. His entrepreneurial spirit — pioneering the modern lotto business — has created jobs, sustained families, and inspired young Nigerians.”
The president also commended Adebutu’s wide-ranging philanthropy through the Kessington Adebukunola Adebutu Foundation, which he said has changed countless lives across Nigeria.
“Through his foundation, countless indigent students have received scholarships, while communities have benefited from his support for youth programs, sports, culture, and social development. He has remained a silent giver, touching lives without fanfare,” Tinubu said.
Describing Adebutu as “a man whose generosity and commitment to the common good set him apart among our country’s wealthy individuals,” Tinubu added that Adebutu’s life’s work extends beyond business and philanthropy.
Family members, friends, and dignitaries gathered in Lagos to celebrate the nonagenarian, popularly known as “Baba Ijebu,” for his lifelong service to humanity and contributions to Nigeria’s development.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio lauded Adebutu as “a visionary whose philanthropy has become a national model,” while Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun described him as “a pride of our state and a blessing to our nation.”
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Administration also joined in the celebration, with Minister Nyesom Wike describing Adebutu as “a symbol of integrity, hard work, and national unity.” Wike said the FCT government “recognizes his immense contributions to Nigeria’s economic and social progress,” adding that “his impact transcends regional boundaries and serves as an inspiration to generations of entrepreneurs.”
Adebutu, visibly moved by the outpouring of affection, expressed gratitude to God, his family, and the Nigerian people, pledging to continue supporting education, youth empowerment, and community development.
