President Bola Tinubu has celebrated legendary Nigerian musician Chief Sunday Adeniyi Adegeye, popularly known as King Sunny Ade, as the juju icon marks his 80th birthday.
In a birthday message issued on September 22, 2026, Tinubu described King Sunny Ade as an icon of Nigerian and African music who has exemplified musical excellence and cultural ambassadorship throughout his career.
The President said the musician had enriched Nigeria and brought joy to millions across generations through his talent, creativity, discipline and enduring passion for music.
Tinubu credited King Sunny Ade with helping transform juju music into a globally recognised Nigerian cultural treasure through his distinctive sound and innovative approach.
He specifically highlighted the musician’s blend of guitar, talking drums and other traditional instruments, as well as his performances and creative style that have contributed to his place in African arts and entertainment.
According to the President, King Sunny Ade’s influence extends beyond entertainment because his career has helped demonstrate how Nigerian cultural heritage can cross borders and connect with audiences around the world.
Tinubu also praised the octogenarian’s contribution to Nigeria’s creative industry, saying his music has inspired generations of musicians and other practitioners.
The President noted that King Sunny Ade’s music has entertained audiences while also preserving aspects of Nigeria’s cultural identity, celebrating its traditions and projecting the country’s diversity internationally.
King Sunny Ade was born on September 22, 1946, and began his professional music career in the 1960s before forming his own band, the Green Spots, in 1967.
He later became associated with the African Beats and rose to prominence in Nigeria during the 1970s, establishing himself as one of the leading figures in the development of modern juju music.
His international breakthrough came in the early 1980s after he signed with Island Records’ Mango imprint, leading to international attention for albums including Juju Music in 1982 and Synchro System in 1983.
Synchro System earned him a Grammy nomination in 1984, making him the first Nigerian artist to receive a Grammy nomination, while his album Odu later received another nomination in the Best World Music Album category.
The Recording Academy lists King Sunny Ade as a two-time Grammy nominee, further reflecting the international reach of his music career.
Tinubu said the musician’s achievements demonstrate how talent combined with dedication and commitment to cultural heritage can create a lasting legacy in the arts.
The President also described King Sunny Ade’s 80th birthday as an important milestone and said the Federal Government recognises the contributions of cultural icons to Nigeria’s identity and creative economy.
He congratulated the musician on behalf of his family, the Federal Government and Nigerians, while praying for his continued good health, wisdom and many more fulfilling years.
King Sunny Ade’s 80th birthday has also attracted tributes from other Nigerians, including Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, who described the musician as a distinguished son of Ondo Kingdom and a cultural ambassador whose career has promoted the state’s heritage.
As the celebrated musician enters his ninth decade, tributes surrounding his birthday have highlighted both his longevity in the Nigerian music industry and the international reach of the musical tradition he helped popularise.