By Sola Ojewusi
ABUJA, September 22, 2026 — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated legendary Nigerian musician and global juju music icon, Chief Sunday Adeniyi Adegeye, popularly known as King Sunny Ade, on his 80th birthday, describing him as an embodiment of musical excellence and an outstanding ambassador of Nigerian culture.
In a birthday message issued on Tuesday, President Tinubu commended the veteran musician for eight decades of remarkable achievement, creativity and service to the arts, noting that his career had helped transform juju music from a distinctly Nigerian musical tradition into a globally recognised cultural treasure.
The President said King Sunny Ade had enriched Nigeria’s cultural landscape and brought joy to millions of people across generations through his extraordinary talent, discipline and enduring passion for music.
“Today, I warmly celebrate Chief Sunday Adeniyi Adegeye, the legendary King Sunny Ade and an icon of Nigerian and African music, on his 80th birthday,” Tinubu said.
He described the celebrated musician as one of Africa’s most distinguished entertainers, whose career had taken the richness of Nigerian culture to audiences across the world.
According to the President, King Sunny Ade’s distinctive musical style, characterised by the masterful fusion of guitars, talking drums and other traditional instruments, together with his captivating dance performances and innovative approach to music, had earned him a distinguished place in the history of African arts and entertainment.
Tinubu also praised the musician’s contribution beyond entertainment, describing him as a “proud ambassador of Nigeria” whose international career demonstrated the ability of the country’s cultural heritage to transcend geographical boundaries and communicate powerfully with audiences around the world.
The President noted that King Sunny Ade’s influence extended across generations of musicians and creative practitioners, stressing that his music had served not only as a source of entertainment but also as a vehicle for cultural preservation and national identity.
“Your music has not only entertained, but it has also preserved our cultural identity, celebrated our traditions and projected the beauty and diversity of our country to the world,” the President said.
Tinubu further acknowledged the broader significance of the veteran musician’s career to Nigeria’s creative industry, noting that his accomplishments had inspired generations of musicians and other practitioners in the arts and entertainment sector.
He said the achievements of cultural icons such as King Sunny Ade underscored the importance of Nigeria’s creative heritage and its capacity to serve as an instrument of cultural diplomacy and international recognition.
“As President, I deeply recognise and celebrate the immense contributions of our cultural icons,” Tinubu said, expressing gratitude to God for granting the musician the grace to attain the milestone.
The President described King Sunny Ade’s 80 years as a testament to excellence, perseverance and sustained service to the arts.
“At 80, you embody excellence, perseverance and service to the arts. Your achievements remind us that talent, when combined with dedication and commitment to one’s heritage, can become an enduring national legacy,” he said.
Tinubu extended his congratulations to the music legend on behalf of his family, the Federal Government and the people of Nigeria, while praying for his continued good health, wisdom and many more fulfilling years.
King Sunny Ade, born Sunday Adeniyi Adegeye, is widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s most influential musicians and one of the foremost international ambassadors of African popular music. His career has spanned several decades, during which he has played a significant role in the evolution and international visibility of modern juju music.
His 80th birthday therefore marks a significant milestone not only in the life of one of Nigeria’s most celebrated entertainers but also in the history of the country’s contemporary cultural and creative expression.
