The Oyo State governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Sharafadeen Alli, has felicitated former Deputy Governor Ambassador Taofeek Arapaja on his 68th birthday.
In a personally signed message issued on Tuesday, Alli described Arapaja as a brave citizen, a true statesman and a proud son of Ibadan whose contributions to democracy and good governance cannot be overemphasised.
Taofeek Arapaja Birthday: Alli Calls Him a Rare Gift to Oyo State
Marking the Taofeek Arapaja birthday, Alli called the former deputy governor a rare gift to Oyo State, Nigeria and humanity. According to him, Arapaja has served in different capacities with courage, loyalty, wisdom and an uncommon passion for the people.
From Local Government to Diplomacy: Arapaja’s Career in Public Service
Alli traced Arapaja’s distinguished career in public service. It began as Chairman of Ibadan South East Local Government and advanced to Member of the House of Representatives. Arapaja then served as Deputy Governor of Oyo State from 2007 to 2011 under the late Otunba Adebayo Alao Akala. He later became Nigeria’s Ambassador to Iran and then to Jordan, where he served until 2015.
“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,” Alli wrote.
Sharafadeen Alli on Arapaja’s Influence in Oyo State Politics
The APC candidate said Arapaja 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 added.
Birthday Prayers for Good Health and Long Life
Alli wished the celebrant many happy returns and prayed for good health, long life and renewed strength to continue his good work for 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 said.
