On
April 29, 2023, President Muhammadu Buhari celebrated the 70th birthday of
renowned
Nigerian businessman and philanthropist, Dr. Mike Adenuga, Jnr.
Alongside the President, several other world leaders, including the Vice
President of Nigeria, Yemi Osinbajo, President of France, Emmanuel Macron,
former President of Ghana, John Dramani Mahama, former President of Benin
Republic, Dr. Thomas Boni Yayi, President of African Development Bank Group,
Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State, and the Vice
President of Liberia, Dr. Jewel Howard Taylor, also sent congratulatory
messages to Adenuga.
President
Buhari celebrated Adenuga’s entrepreneurial spirit and philanthropic works, which
have brought recognition to Nigeria and Africa at large. He praised Adenuga’s
visionary leadership and the significant impact it has had on Nigeria’s
economy, citing his investments in oil and gas, telecoms, real estate, banking,
construction, and hospitality. Adenuga has also shown remarkable presence in
supporting entertainment, sports, and African culture within and outside the
country.
Buhari
extolled Adenuga’s courage, humility, and dedication to nation-building, always
placing the interest of the nation first and ensuring that all his ventures and
investments uphold human values of empathy, appreciation, trust, and respect.
The President believed that the numerous national and global awards that
Adenuga has received are well-deserved, including the highest individual honour
for a private citizen in Nigeria, GCON, and many others of high note like
“The Companion of the Star of Ghana” from Ghana and “Commander
of the Legion of Honour” by French President, Emmanuel Macron.
Vice
President Osinbajo acknowledged Adenuga’s immense contributions to Nigeria’s
socio-economic development, building indigenous brands across business sectors
into international icons. He described Adenuga as “a true national
asset” and stated that his patriotism and personal commitment to Nigeria’s
development is a beacon of light and an inspiration to many, especially young
people at home and on the continent.
President
Macron praised Adenuga’s tremendous contribution to the strengthening of the
relationship between Nigeria and France on many aspects, acknowledging that
France holds a special place in Adenuga’s heart. Macron saw in Adenuga’s
remarks and the success of his activities the perfect illustration of the
vibrant Nigerian entrepreneurial spirit and an exemplary winning partnership
between France and Nigeria over the long term. He thanked Adenuga for the Mike
Adenuga Foundation, which is helping Nigerians and other African citizens
achieve social and economic independence. Macron also appreciated him for
establishing the Mike Adenuga Center – Alliance Francaise, which has become the
major architectural and cultural landmark of Lagos and a considerable asset for
the cultural visibility of France in Nigeria and the dialogue between our
cultures, with no equivalent on the continent.
Dr.
Jewel Howard Taylor praised Adenuga for his amazing, impactful, and yet quiet
life, and acknowledged the stellar record he has set in many spheres of life,
making resourceful impacts in the lives of many – both the great and small
across the world. Dr. Adesina of the African Development Bank Group celebrated
Adenuga’s sublime business acumen and accomplishments, which have been very
impressive, with his massive investments across various industries, covering
oil and gas and telecoms, among others. Dr. Adesina commended Adenuga for
demonstrating great commitment to the growth and development of Africa,
showcasing Africa as a great investment destination and showing the power of
his business ingenuity. Through his philanthropic activities, Adenuga continues
to support and impact the lives of others with kindness and generosity.
