29th October, 2022
President Muhammadu Buhari on Sunday congratulated the Founder of Afe Babalola University, Chief Afe Babalola (SAN), and Rev. Austin Epunam on their birthdays.
Rev. Epunam, a social worker, businessman, and publisher turns 60 today, Saturday, October 29, while, the legal luminary Afe Babalola will be 93 tomorrow, Sunday 30 October 2022.
In a congratulatory message issued by his spokesman, Mr Femi Adesina, on Saturday in Abuja, Buhari rejoiced with the renowned lawyer and educationist for lofty dreams, commendable achievements and contributions to the development of the country.
According to the president, he shares the joy of the occasion with family, friends and professional colleagues of the nonagenarian, who was called to the England Bar in 1963.
Buhari said that Babalola became a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) in 1987, raising the standard of the legal profession in Nigeria by dint of hard work, and grooming a generation of lawyers that continue to carry on his legacy.
The president lauded Babalola for his love and care for others.
He also celebrated him for envisioning and realizing one of the best universities in the country with world-class administration, faculties and departments, especially in health care and following up to provide scholarships for indigent citizens.
Buhari prayed that the almighty God would uphold the lawyer and educationist in good health and grant him more strength to keep serving the country and humanity.
For Rev. Epunam, Buhari also rejoiced with his family, friends and relations.
The president appreciated the grace of God upon the life of the Ndiakwu Otolo Nnewi-born cleric.
He applauded him for his crusade in dissuading young people from irregular migration through his non-governmental organization, Sweet Home Africa.
Buhari also lauded the commitment of Epunam to “the crusade against breast and cervical cancers, which he takes round the country, and beyond”.
The president wished him renewed vigour in his enterprises, greater health, and strength to serve God and humanity for a long time to come.