The governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State, Senator Sharafadeen Alli, has congratulated former Deputy Governor of the state, Ambassador Taofeek Arapaja, on his 68th birthday, describing him as a courageous public servant, accomplished statesman and a distinguished son of Oyo State whose contributions to democracy, governance and public service remain invaluable.
Senator Alli, in a congratulatory message personally signed on Tuesday, extolled Arapaja’s leadership qualities, political experience and enduring commitment to the development of Oyo State and Nigeria, noting that his remarkable contributions across different spheres of public life have earned him recognition as a respected figure in the state’s political landscape.
The APC governorship candidate described the former deputy governor as a rare gift to Oyo State, Nigeria and humanity, stressing that his distinguished record of service reflects courage, loyalty, wisdom, patriotism and an uncommon passion for the welfare of the people.
Alli particularly recalled Arapaja’s illustrious political and administrative journey, which began with his service as Chairman of Ibadan South East Local Government before his election as a member of the House of Representatives. He subsequently served as Deputy Governor of Oyo State between 2007 and 2011 under the administration of the late Governor Otunba Adebayo Alao-Akala.
His public service career also extended to international diplomacy, having represented Nigeria as Ambassador to Iran and subsequently Jordan, where he served until 2015.
According to Alli, Arapaja’s ability to distinguish himself in political leadership, public administration, diplomacy and community service reflects his versatility, dedication and enduring commitment to national development.
“Ambassador Arapaja has excelled as a family man, a politician, a public administrator, a diplomat, and as a patriot. In every assignment, he has demonstrated the courage to speak the truth, the commitment to serve, and the passion to lift others.
“He has never been found wanting in leadership, character, and commitment. He is a bridge builder and a mobilizer whose political sagacity continues to shape the direction of Oyo State politics,” Alli stated.
The senator further acknowledged Arapaja’s political relevance and capacity to bring people together, describing him as a bridge builder whose influence transcends political boundaries and whose experience remains valuable to the growth of democratic institutions and political development in Oyo State.
He noted that Arapaja’s years of public service had demonstrated the importance of integrity, consistency and people-oriented leadership, adding that his contributions to the state’s political evolution would continue to attract recognition and appreciation.
While wishing the former deputy governor many more years of fruitful service, Alli prayed for sustained good health, longevity, divine protection and renewed strength, expressing the hope that Arapaja would continue to contribute meaningfully to the development of Oyo State and Nigeria.
“As you add another year today, I celebrate the enigma, the bridge builder, and the mobilizer. Happy 68th Birthday, Your Excellency. Oyo State is proud of you,” he added.
Alli’s birthday tribute underscores the recognition of Arapaja’s extensive political and diplomatic experience, as well as his longstanding contributions to governance and democratic engagement in Oyo State.
