President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has paid glowing tribute to the late former Governor of Oyo State, Alhaji Lamidi Onaolapo Adesina, describing him as a steadfast patriot and visionary leader who believed deeply in Nigeria’s potential for greatness.
Tinubu, who was represented by his Special Adviser on Media and Public Communications, Sunday Dare, made the remarks on Tuesday in Ibadan at the 2nd Lam Adesina Memorial Lecture Series, held to commemorate the 13th anniversary of the former governor’s passing.
In his message, President Tinubu extolled Adesina’s legacy as a man who served the people of Oyo State with passion and integrity, noting that his memory remained evergreen in the hearts of all who shared his ideals.
“I hold his memory dear to my heart, as he was not just a brother in the progressive struggle but also a believer in Nigeria’s promise,” Tinubu said. “He taught us that politics could be noble when guided by principles, focus, and compassion. As Governor of Oyo State from 1999 to 2003, Lam Adesina served — not ruled — the people, investing in physical infrastructure and human development to reverse the decay inherited from years of military rule.”
Delivering the memorial lecture themed “Sustaining a Legacy of Effective Leadership in Nigeria”, former Ogun State Governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, emphasized the importance of moral education and character building among the youth. He urged parents and guardians to instill discipline, ethics, and civic responsibility in their children, which he said were essential ingredients for nurturing responsible and visionary leaders.
Amosun also called for the reintroduction of history into the nation’s school curriculum, arguing that a sound understanding of the past was crucial to reviving Nigeria’s moral fabric and identity. “We must teach our children about the patriots who sacrificed for our society, among whom Alhaji Lam Adesina stood tall. Reviving history will help them appreciate the values that shaped our progress,” he said.
The event, which drew political leaders, scholars, and admirers of the late governor, celebrated Lam Adesina’s enduring influence as a teacher, politician, and public servant committed to justice, equality, and service to humanity.
