- Safiu Kehinde
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has showered encomium on Harvard University Don, Professor Jacob Kehinde Olupona, described him as a true reflection of Nigerian spirit of resilience, brilliance, and global competitiveness.
Tinubu made this known in a statement issued on Wednesday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, in celebration of the scholar’s 75th birthday anniversary.
Olupona, a Nigerian National Order of Merit (NNOM) awardee and a Professor of African Religious Traditions, is also the Chair of the Department of African and African American Studies at Harvard University, USA.
Tinubu commended Olupona over his journey from the hallowed halls of Boston University and the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, to his current leadership at Harvard University.
The President acknowledged the don’s peerless contributions to the study of African traditional religions, culture, and sociology,
He noted that through his prolific research and teachings at Harvard University, Olupona served as a bridge between Nigeria and the global intellectual landscape.
“Professor Olupona’s scholarship has challenged stereotypes and provided the world with a deeper and broader understanding of our rich spiritual and social traditions.
“He is not just a pride to Nigeria, but a beacon of excellence for the entire African continent,” the President says.
Tinubu wishes the celebrant good health, renewed strength, wisdom and continued brilliance.