Buhari, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina, joined the academia and the media in celebrating with the former minister, “whose intellectual and managerial influence cuts across almost every sphere of national life, with stronger presence in formulation of policies, particularly on democracy, good governance and diplomacy.”Nigeria's President Muhammadu Buhari poses as he arrives for the 75th anniversary celebrations of The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) at UNESCO headquarters in Paris on November 12, 2021. (Photo by JULIEN DE ROSA / POOL / AFP) (Photo by JULIEN DE ROSA/POOL/AFP via Getty Images)© Getty Nigeria’s President Muhammadu Buhari poses as he arrives for the 75th anniversary celebrations of The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) at UNESCO headquarters in Paris on November 12, 2021. (Photo by JULIEN DE ROSA / POOL / AFP) (Photo by JULIEN DE ROSA/POOL/AFP via Getty Images)The statement read, “The President affirms that the scholar has remained unwavering in his patriotism and loyalty to the growth of the nation and Africa, heading the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs at 33, becoming a minister at 43, after earning a Ph.D at 27.

“President Buhari believes Prof. Akinyemi’s foresight, steadfastness and diligence deserve commendation, while appreciating his willingness to share his experience whenever the need arises, including shaping the electoral process for democracy, and playing a significant role in global dialogue with other nations, the UN, Commonwealth and African Union.”

Tinubu, in a statement from his media office signed by Mr. Tunde Rahman, noted that Akinyemi has contributed immensely to the socio-political development of Nigeria and to democracy and good governance.

He said, “At 33, Prof. Akiyemi was appointed Director-General of the Nigerian Institute for International Affairs and in 1985, at 43, he emerged Nigeria’s External Affairs Minister.

“Easily one of the best the country has produced in that office till date, his two years in office were significant as they represented some of the country’s best moments in international relations.

“Prof. Akinyemi also played active part in the country’s pro-democracy struggle and has remained till date a key partner in our progressive front.

“I vividly recall his role in NADECO. He was a thorn in the flesh of the Abacha regime. He also helped to give scholarly support to the coalition.

“Rich in experience, wisdom and knowledge, Prof. Akinyemi is today an important elder-statesman. His wise counsel is being sought after locally and abroad.”

Buhari, Tinubu hail Akinyemi at 80 (msn.com)