President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has celebrated renowned scholar, columnist, literary critic and public intellectual Professor Adebayo Williams, describing him as a distinguished Nigerian whose contributions to scholarship, literature, journalism and intellectual discourse have enriched the country and beyond.
President Tinubu made the remarks while congratulating Professor Williams on his 75th birthday.
In a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr Bayo Onanuga, the President acknowledged Professor Williams’ remarkable career as a university teacher and scholar, particularly his contributions to the study of African literature, culture and society.
He also praised the scholar’s longstanding commitment to democracy and good governance, describing him as a friend and ally who made sacrifices for the democratic system Nigeria enjoys today.
President Tinubu said Professor Williams had, through his writings, teaching and intellectual engagements, inspired generations of students, academics, writers and readers.
“Prof. Williams has, through his writings, teaching and intellectual engagements, inspired generations of students, academics, writers and readers.
“He has made significant contributions to the understanding and appreciation of Nigeria’s social and cultural heritage.
“He distinguished himself as a formidable intellectual whose scholarship, writings and commitment to knowledge have continued to illuminate our national conversation,” the President said.
President Tinubu described the scholar’s 75th birthday as an opportunity to celebrate a remarkable personality and honour a life devoted to learning, literature and service to humanity.
He prayed to Almighty God to grant Professor Williams good health, wisdom and strength as he continues to serve Nigeria and humanity.
The Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, also congratulated Prof. Adebayo Williams, on his 75th birthday.
Sanwo-Olu, in a congratulatory message issued on Wednesday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, commended Prof Adebayo Williams’ remarkable impact in the country.
The Governor said the scholar, who is a specialist in the field of African literature and a respected columnist, has contributed positively to political developments in Nigeria and the African continent.
He said: “On behalf of my wife, the family, the government, and the people of Lagos State, I celebrate a renowned scholar, Prof. Adebayo Williams, on his 75th birthday.
“Prof. Adebayo Williams is a respected and distinguished scholar, columnist and novelist who is passionate about good society. He deserves all the accolades for his immense contributions to the political developments in Africa in general, and Nigeria in particular.
“As Prof. Adebayo Williams celebrates his 75th birthday, I pray that God will grant him good health to enable him to render more service to humanity, Lagos State, Nigeria and Africa as he has been doing for many years.”
