President Bola Tinubu has extended warm congratulations to prominent businessman and philanthropist, Chief Kessington Adebutu, on the occasion of his 90th birthday, describing him as “a national icon and role model whose life reflects integrity, compassion, and enduring service to humanity.”
In a statement issued by the State House on Friday, Tinubu celebrated Adebutu’s remarkable journey from his modest beginnings in Iperu-Iremo, Ogun State, to becoming one of Nigeria’s most respected entrepreneurs and philanthropists.
“From a humble background in the serene town of Iperu-Iremo, where his life’s journey began, Chief Adebutu rose to national prominence as a businessman, philanthropist, and cultural icon who embodies the virtues of hard work, honour, and compassion,” the President said.
Popularly known as Baba Ijebu, Adebutu is credited with revolutionising Nigeria’s modern lottery industry. Born on October 24, 1935, he founded Premier Lotto Limited, the operator of the well-known Baba Ijebu Lotto brand, which has grown into one of the nation’s biggest gaming companies since its establishment in 2001.
Beyond his achievements in business, Adebutu has been an unwavering supporter of education, healthcare, and social development through the Kessington Adebukunola Adebutu Foundation. The foundation has funded scholarships, provided medical outreach, and launched youth empowerment initiatives across Nigeria.
The respected cultural leader holds several traditional titles, including the Odole-Oodua of Ile-Ife, in recognition of his efforts toward preserving Yoruba culture and heritage.
ALSO READ
Tinubu also reflected on his personal relationship with Adebutu, describing it as one rooted in mutual respect and admiration. He praised the nonagenarian as “a reliable brother, a loyal, honest, and dependable gentleman whose integrity and humility are widely admired.”
Highlighting Adebutu’s impact on the gaming sector, the President noted that his innovation “created jobs, sustained families, and inspired young Nigerians to believe in enterprise and diligence.”
“Through his admirable personality, business acumen, resilience, and benevolent spirit, Chief Adebutu distinguished himself as one of Nigeria’s most outstanding entrepreneurs. His remarkable contributions to business, philanthropy, culture, and national development are footprints that will endure across generations. Through hard work and consistency, he became a national icon and role model. His entrepreneurial spirit — pioneering the modern lotto business — has created jobs, sustained families, and inspired young Nigerians,” he said.
Tinubu further commended Adebutu’s philanthropic reach through his foundation, noting that it had changed countless lives nationwide.
“Through his foundation, countless indigent students have received scholarships, while communities have benefited from his support for youth programmes, sports, culture, and social development. He has remained a silent giver, touching lives without fanfare,” Tinubu said.
The President described Adebutu as “a man whose generosity and commitment to the common good set him apart among our country’s wealthy individuals,” adding that his influence extended beyond business and charity.
“Outside of business, where he made his name and fortune, Chief Adebutu also contributed to strengthening democracy, promoting good governance, fostering national unity, and promoting peace,” Tinubu said.
He noted that Adebutu’s recognition as Odole Oodua and other prestigious Yoruba titles were clear acknowledgments of his contributions to cultural preservation and service to his people.
“On this special anniversary of his 90th birthday, I thank Chief Adebutu on behalf of the nation for bringing joy, opportunities, and livelihoods to countless families through his businesses and philanthropy. I wish him many years of good health and continued contributions to national progress,” Tinubu concluded.
