Tribute to Chief Bode Akindele, by Asiwaju Bola Tinubu

I was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Chief Bode Akindele on 29 June 2020. His loss is, indeed, a great and irredeemable loss for our people. Chief Akindele lived a long and fulfilled life marked by a multitude of impressive achievements

He was a self-made man who single-handedly built a large and successful business empire with interests spanning from maritime to properties, manufacturing, real estate, finance and flour milling.

Chief Akindele was an astute and driven businessman and the breadth and variety of his interests stand as a monument to his uncanny ability to achieve success no matter the nature of the endeavour upon which he decided to embark.

Chief Akindele’s success was not limited to Nigeria or, indeed, Africa. Through his perseverance, determination and consistency of effort and character, Chief Akindele was able to achieve greatness on a global scale.

His accomplishments in life stand testament to all that can be achieved by tenacious and astute African businessmen such as himself and his reputation as a leading industrialist and business tycoon will doubtless live on in the memory of his followers and fellow Nigerians.

Throughout the span of his life, Chief Akindele lived charitably. He was regarded by everybody that knew him as a cheerful giver. His beneficence towards his fellow man, particularly the people of Ibadan, was legendary.

I pray solace to Bolaji, his son, and all other members of his family. My condolences also to the Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Saliu Adetunji, Aje Ogunguniso 1.

May Almighty God grant them all the resolve to bear this loss and the fortitude to carry on in honour of his legacy.