From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
President Bola Tinubu has congratulated the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Olasunkanmi Fagbemi, on his 67th birthday, praising a legal career he described as defined by excellence, integrity, patriotism and unwavering service to Nigeria.
In a statement yesterday by Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu highlighted Fagbemi’s long-standing contributions to the legal profession since his admission to the Nigerian Bar in 1985. The President noted that Fagbemi’s rise to prominence culminated in his recognition as one of the country’s most respected legal minds.
“Prince Fagbemi’s elevation to the rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria at a remarkably young age reflected not only his exceptional advocacy but also the diligence, discipline and intellectual rigour that have remained the hallmarks of his career,” Tinubu said.
The President also outlined Fagbemi’s extensive service across public and professional institutions, citing his roles as a prosecutor, arbitrator, life bencher and member of bodies such as the Legal Practitioners’ Privileges Committee, the Council of Legal Education, the International Bar Association and the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (UK).
“Noteworthy is his extensive service to the legal profession and public institutions,” the statement said, adding that his leadership of the Governing Council of Yaba College of Technology showcased his capacity to strengthen institutions through prudent and principled administration.
Since he assumed office in 2023, the President said, Prince Fagbemi has provided invaluable and sound legal guidance to the administration and has led reforms aimed at strengthening the rule of law, modernising justice administration, improving institutional coordination and protecting the constitutional responsibilities of the Federal Government.
“As a lawyer, his professional life has consistently been guided by fidelity to the law, respect for constitutional democracy and an abiding commitment to justice,” Tinubu said, praying that “Almighty God will grant him many more years of good health, wisdom and strength in continued service to the nation and humanity.”
(The Sun)