PRESIDENT TINUBU CELEBRATES PROFESSOR OLUPONA AT 75

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu congratulates Professor Jacob Kehinde Olupona, a distinguished scholar and author, on his 75th birthday on February 5.

Jacob Olupona, a Nigerian National Order of Merit (NNOM) awardee and a Professor of African Religious Traditions, is also the Chair of the Department of African and African American Studies at Harvard University, USA.

President Tinubu describes Olupona’s journey from the hallowed halls of Boston University and the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, to his current leadership at Harvard University as a true reflection of the Nigerian spirit of resilience, brilliance, and global competitiveness.

The President acknowledges Professor Olupona’s peerless contributions to the study of African traditional religions, culture, and sociology, noting that through his prolific research and teachings at Harvard University, Olupona served as a bridge between Nigeria and the global intellectual landscape.

“Professor Olupona’s scholarship has challenged stereotypes and provided the world with a deeper and broader understanding of our rich spiritual and social traditions.

“He is not just a pride to Nigeria, but a beacon of excellence for the entire African continent,” the President says.

President Tinubu wishes the celebrant good health, renewed strength, wisdom and continued brilliance.

Bayo Onanuga
Special Adviser to the President
(Information & Strategy)
February 4, 2026