President Muhammadu Buhari has congratulated Prof. James Ortese Ayatse, on his election as Tor Tiv, the paramount ruler of the Tiv people.
Prof. Ayatse, a former Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi, is also the pioneer and immediate past Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University, Dutsin-Ma, Katsina State.
The President, in a statement by Femi Adesina, his Special Adviser (Media & Publicity) believes that Prof. Ayatse’s emergence as the paramount ruler of the Tiv people, is an affirmation of his strength of character, integrity, and moral authority, garnered over the years as a lecturer, erudite scholar and administrator.
While urging all his subjects to rally round the new monarch to make his reign as Tor Tiv the fifth, a resounding success, the President urged the paramount ruler to use his revered office as a veritable platform for conflict prevention, peace building and development at the grassroots.
Commending the transparent process leading to the emergence of the royal father after the demise of his predecessor, HRH, Alfred Akawe Torkula, Tor Tiv IV, last year, the President offered his best wishes to the new monarch as he prepares to ascend the throne of his ancestors.
President Buhari pledged that his administration will continue to recognise traditional institutions as key partners in progress in finding lasting solutions to sensitive issues in the country.
The President has also warmly congratulated renowned journalist, author and publisher, Chief Areoye Oyebola, as he clocks 80 years on December 23rd, 2016.
President Buhari joined the entire media industry, publishers, family and friends of Chief Oyebola in celebrating the lofty achievements of the octogenarian, who variously served as Editor of Daily Times, Commissioner in Western State of Nigeria, Oyo State, and the board of many public and private institutions.
The President reiterated that the patriotism and commitment displayed by Chief Oyebola in nation building has been clearly demonstrated in his early participation in politics, and relentless pursuit of justice and fairness in joining NADECO and Afenifere during the troubling times in Nigeria’s democracy.
President Buhari commended the untiring efforts of the veteran journalist and publisher in contributing to the development of Nigeria through the writing of many articles and books over many years, and most recently his courage to start an NGO, Movement for Nigeria’s Total Transformation (MNTT).
The President prayed that the almighty God will grant Chief Oyebola longer life, good health and more strength to continue serving the country he loves, and humanity in general.
