On the occasion of his 75th birthday, President Muhammadu Buhari congratulated iconic Nigerian musician Chief Sunday Adeniyi Adegeye, alias King Sunny Ade.
In a statement released by presidential spokesman Femi Adesina, the president characterized King Sunny Ade as a cultural icon who has improved the country’s image.
Buhari also praised the pioneer of juju music for encouraging and mentoring aspiring musicians.
The president wished the Grammy-nominated singer and songwriter a long and prosperous life.
The statement reads; “President Muhammadu Buhari joins the entertainment industry in Nigeria and world over, particularly performing artistes, in celebrating with legendary juju singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist, Chief Sunday Adeniyi Adegeye aka King Sunny Ade on his 75th birthday, September 22, 2021.
The President extols the courage, foresight and innovative spirit of the music artiste, who has since graduated into an authority in the literary and theatrical world, sharing his talent as a visiting Professor of Music at Obafemi Awolowo University Ile Ife and championing many development causes.
President Buhari believes King Sunny Ade’s several nominations for the Grammy, being the first Nigerian for such recognition, brought the spotlight on Nigeria’s multi-talented artistes, creating opportunities for many nominations and an eventual win that further boosted the country’s image among comity of nations.
The President notes the focus, discipline, business and administrative savvy that the guitarist and dancer introduced into the music industry in Nigeria, encouraging creativity and entrepreneurship by setting up a foundation to cater for budding talents.
As the multi-talented instrumentalist turns 75, President Buhari prays for longer life and God’s blessings on his family.”