Tinubu celebrates Kessington Adebutu on 90th birthday

President Bola Tinubu has congratulated renowned businessman and philanthropist, Kessington Adebutu, on his 90th birthday.

He described him as “a national icon and role model whose life reflects integrity, compassion, and enduring service to humanity.”

In a statement released by the State House on Friday, Tinubu praised Adebutu’s journey from humble beginnings in Iperu-Iremo, Ogun State, to becoming one of Nigeria’s most influential 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.

Adebutu, popularly known as Baba Ijebu, is widely recognised for redefining Nigeria’s modern lottery industry. Born on October 24, 1935, he rose from modest beginnings to establish Premier Lotto Limited, operators of the popular Baba Ijebu Lotto brand, which has become one of the country’s largest gaming companies since its incorporation in 2001.

Beyond business, Adebutu is a major benefactor in education, healthcare, and social welfare through the Kessington Adebukunola Adebutu Foundation, which funds scholarships, medical outreach programmes, and youth empowerment schemes nationwide.

A respected cultural figure, Adebutu holds several traditional titles, including the Odole-Oodua of Ile-Ife, in recognition of his contributions to cultural preservation and the Yoruba race.

Tinubu described his friendship with Adebutu as one built on mutual respect and admiration.

He also noted that Adebutu remained “a reliable brother, a loyal, honest, and dependable gentleman whose integrity and humility are widely admired.”

The President highlighted Adebutu’s pioneering role in developing Nigeria’s modern lotto industry, saying 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.

The President also commended Adebutu’s wide-ranging philanthropy through the Kessington Adebukunola Adebutu Foundation, which he said had changed countless lives across Nigeria.

“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.

Describing him as “a man whose generosity and commitment to the common good set him apart among our country’s wealthy individuals,” Tinubu added that Adebutu’s life’s work extended beyond business and philanthropy.

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,” the President said.

He noted that Adebutu’s recognition as Odole Oodua and other prestigious Yoruba titles reflected his service to cultural preservation and the Yoruba 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.