President Muhammadu Buhari has congratulated senior lawyer, educationist and philanthropist, Afe Babalola, as he turns 85 on October 30, 2016.

President Buhari joined members of Aare Babalola’s family, close associates, professional colleagues and the academia in celebrating Mr. Babalola’s achievements.

“The president reaffirms that the legal luminary’s lifestyle exemplifies discipline, diligence, honesty and wisdom, virtues he employed from childhood to succeed against the vicissitudes of poverty and deprivation, and climbed steadily to reach the pinnacle of his career as Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN),” a statement by presidential spokesperson, Femi Adesina, said.

“As he marks his 85th birthday, President Buhari believes Aare Babalola can look back with pride at his achievements, which include the God-fearing act of always catering for the poor and under privileged, and mentoring of lawyers from his Emmanuel Chambers that have turned Senior Advocates of Nigeria and Attorneys-General and Ministers of Justice.

“The President also extols the patriotism and commitment of Aare Babalola to nation building through regular counseling of leaders, representation of the Federal Government and founding of one of the best universities in Africa.”