The 60th birthday celebration of Professor Abubakar Olanrewaju Sulaiman, Director-General of the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS) and former Minister of National Planning, was held at the prestigious Transcorp Hilton, Abuja. The ceremony also featured the launch of a commemorative of two books in his honour titled : Character Destiny and Leadership/Transformative Leadership in Practice, celebrating his lifelong contributions to governance, scholarship, and national development.

The auspicious moment was all about tributes , celebration of a patriotic public servant whose reflection of his enduring commitment to growth, scholarship, governance and national development was  unveiled as part of the celebrations marking the milestone, and the landmark achievement of his life.

The colorful event that combined birthday commemoration and a formal book presentation, symbolizing both personal milestones and professional achievements of  Professor  Abubakar Olanrewaju Sulaiman.

The occasion which attracted personalities and high profile dignitaries from government, academia, traditional institutions, civil society, and the media graced the occasion.

His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, who sent felicitation message, commending Prof. Sulaiman’s commitment to democratic values and legislative development with pedigree of excellence, dedicated stewardship, and leadership where    his impacts are immensely felt.

In his remarks, Senate President Akpabio commended Professor Sulaiman’s leadership dexterity at NILDS, noting that the institute’s remarkable growth and institutional reforms are clear reflections of his positive initiatives and unwavering commitment to excellence. Senator Apkabio revealed that shortly after the inauguration of  the 10th National Assembly, its leadership was under pressure to review the appointment of professor Abubakar Sulaiman as Director General for National Institute For Legislative Democratic Studies. (NLDS) But today , it is a things of joy to see how the institute is being flourishing under his leadership.

In the same manner, former Senate President, Senator Ahmad Lawan, praised Professor Sulaiman for his diligence, administrative acumen, and dedication to nation-building through knowledge and leadership development.

In his speech, Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Babátúndé Ogunwusi, CFR, congratulated Prof. Abubakar Olanrewaju Sulaiman, he described Professor Abubakar as an iconic leader, Upright person who he held in very high regards. He noted that despite his tight schedule As he onerous task to confer chieftaincy tittle  on some people prior to his own birthday anniversary in Ile-ife. Oba Ogunwusi stressed that he is proud to associate with Professor Abubakar for his distinctive and untainted dignity. The Imperial Majesty ended his remarks with prayers by seeking God’s continued guidance, wisdom, and strength upon Prof. Sulaiman as he continues to contribute immensely to national development and democratic growth in Nigeria.

The books launch segment highlighted essays and reflections on Prof. Sulaiman’s leadership, policy innovations, and impact on governance in Nigeria.

The Guest speaker, Professor Attairu Jega, highlighted the importance and power of transformative and ethical leadership in nation-building. The needs for research-driven policymaking and institutional capacity development.

He stressed that Prof. Sulaiman’s role in bridging academia and governance, inspiring young scholars and public officials alike.

The event which served as both a celebration of life and legacy and a platform for intellectual engagement. It reinforced NILDS’s visibility as a leading policy and legislative research institution and cemented Prof. Sulaiman’s reputation as a national thought leader in governance and democratic studies.

The convergence of high-profile dignitaries, intellectual reflections, and cultural elegance made the event both memorable and impactfull. a fitting tribute to a life dedicated to public service and academic excellence.

The atmosphere was festive yet reflective, featuring musical interludes, goodwill messages, and cultural performances of remarkable celebration of leadership, scholarship, and service.

Here are some of the special guests who attended the occasion’s reception: include; former Chief of Staff to the late President Muhamadu Buhari, Professor Ibrahim Agboola Gambari, former Senate president and SGF, Senator Anyium Pious Anyium, ,,  former Chairman, Independent Electoral Commission,INEC, ,Professor Attahiru Jega; former Attorney General of the Federation, Mohammed Bello Adoke (SAN) who represented The former president Goodluck Epele Jonathan , and the Emir of Ilorin, represented by the Balogun Alanamu of Ilorin, Alhaji Abubakar Usman Jos, Former Governor of Kano State, His excellency, Rabiu Kwankwaso, Director General, Security Exchange commission.

Other dignitaries were: the renowned businesswoman, Alhaja Muinat Bola Shagaya, the CEO Bolmus Group International and Saraudiya of ilorin, Sheikh Sulaiman Onikijipa, Mufty Diyar, Hon. AbdulGaniyu Cook Olododo, the first Gaskiya Ngeri of Iilorin, Alh. Bolaj Abdullah , Alh. Lukman Olayiwola Mustapha Sobi, chief Imam Central Mosque Abuja, Fadilat Sheikh Oba Abdulkadir Sholagberu, Muhammad Dele Belgore, SAN.  Hon.Yinka Aluko among others.



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