By Oluwakemi

President Muhammadu Buhari took off time from state duties to send a congratulatory message to the King of  Juju music, King Sunny Ade on his 70th birthday, coming up tomorrow, Septemeber 22nd.

Buhari sent his birthday felicitations in a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr Femi Adesina, in Abuja today.

The statement read, “President Buhari joins friends, family and fans of the multi-talented instrumentalist, songwriter and dancer in celebrating his remarkable life.”

The President noted with delight that Sunny Ade had been graced with numerous awards for outstanding performances, including nominations for the Grammy.

Buhari added that the Septuagenarian had over the years brought pride to his country by mastering his art against all odds, taking the African musical genre to the global stage.

He, therefore, commended him for not only bringing joy to many hearts and homes through his music, but for serving as an inspiration and a mentor to upcoming artistes.

The President saluted “King Sunny Ade’s love for humanity, especially the less privileged, by setting up a foundation that caters for the needs of others.’’

He prayed that almighty God would grant “the versatile entertainer longer life, good health and more strength.”

Born on Sept. 22, 1964, in Osogbo, Sunday Adeniyi, the King of Juju and popularly called the minister of enjoyment, had been actively in music since 1960s.

His fan base in Houston had set off the birthday celebrations of KSA since last month, when they threw him a big party, when he was in the city on his world tour for the year.

His music albums earned him many awards, including his first Grammy Award nomination in the folk/ethnic music category.

Photo credits: http://encomium.ng/