November 9, 2026 on Latest News, Press Releases
I send warm congratulations to my friend and political ally, Ambassador Joseph Olusola Iji, Nigeria’s Ambassador to the Russian Federation, on his 70th birthday.
I join his family members, friends, associates, colleagues, and well-wishers in celebrating this significant milestone.
Ambassador Iji, the Araba of Apoi land in Ondo State, is a distinguished Nigerian whose years of service reflect a deep commitment to the nation.
I have known Ambassador Iji for several decades as a steadfast progressive who demonstrated loyalty and dedication as we moved through successive political parties, including the Social Democratic Party in the early 1990s, the Alliance for Democracy, the Action Congress, and the All Progressives Congress.
He made huge contributions to the establishment, growth and success of each of these parties.
Beyond politics, Sola Iji served with distinction as a lecturer, lawyer, and trade unionist, upholding honour and integrity in these capacities.
I commend Ambassador Iji for discharging himself creditably, representing Nigeria with dignity, and contributing to stronger mutual understanding, cooperation, and economic partnerships between Nigeria and other nations.
Today, he is serving as our Ambassador to the Russian Federation. He is also concurrently accredited to the Republics of Belarus, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan and Turkmenistan.
As Nigeria deepens its international partnerships and pursues its foreign policy objectives, I am confident that our country can count on Ambassador Iji to bring his wealth of experience, wisdom, and dedication to the service of the nation.
On this special occasion of his 70th birthday, I wish him many more years of good health, happiness and fulfilment. I pray that Almighty God will continue to guide him and grant him renewed strength and grace for the years ahead.
Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR
President & Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces
Federal Republic of Nigeria.
November 9, 2026
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Nigeria,