President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has extended warm congratulations to veteran educationist and former Afenifere Secretary-General, Bashorun Seinde Arogbofa, as he marks his 87th birthday, applauding his lasting impact on Nigeria’s political and educational space.
In a statement released on Sunday, the 22nd of March, 2026, by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President described Arogbofa as a man of strong principles and one of the few remaining followers of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo, noting his steady dedication to progressive values.
Tinubu commended the elder statesman for his “outstanding leadership, dedicated service to Nigeria, and commitment to the progressive cause,” adding that Arogbofa continues to command respect across the South-West political circle.
Reflecting on his time in Afenifere, the President said Arogbofa showed discipline and loyalty, especially in his support for the group’s leader, Pa Reuben Fasoranti.
“I admire Bashorun Arogbofa for his honesty, integrity, consistency and commitment to what he strongly believes in, including the need for unity and solidarity in Yorubaland,” Tinubu said.
“As Secretary General of Afenifere, the foremost Yoruba group, he stood by the leader of the group, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, through thick and thin. He brooked no room for factionalism,” the President added.
Tinubu also recognised Arogbofa’s early backing of his presidential ambition, describing him as one of the respected progressive figures in the South-West who supported him from the beginning.
Beyond politics, the President highlighted Arogbofa’s career in education, where he served as a school principal and later became National President of the All Nigerian Conference of Principals of Secondary Schools (ANCOPSS).
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He noted that Arogbofa played a role in raising the standard of secondary education, particularly in Ondo State and across the country through his leadership efforts.
The President also acknowledged his contributions as an author, especially his book “Understanding Afenifere,” which documents the history and guiding ideas of the Yoruba socio-political group.
Describing him as a source of deep knowledge and experience, Tinubu offered prayers for his continued health and long life.
“On this occasion of his 87th birthday, I pray that God Almighty will grant him good health and keep him with us for more years so we can continue to drink from his fountain of knowledge, wisdom and experience,” the President said.
Bashorun Arogbofa remains widely recognised as a strong voice in Nigeria’s progressive political movement and a consistent advocate for unity within the Yoruba socio-political space.