Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa and fans of Nigerian music icon King Sunny Ade on Tuesday celebrated the juju maestro as he marked his 80th birthday.
In a birthday message, Aiyedatiwa described Ade as a distinguished son of Ondo Kingdom and one of the state’s foremost cultural ambassadors. He praised the musician for promoting Ondo’s heritage, identity and traditions through his music while taking Nigerian juju to global audiences.
“As a distinguished son of Ondo Kingdom and one of the foremost cultural ambassadors of Ondo State, you have carried the rich heritage, identity and traditions of our people to audiences across Nigeria and the world,” the governor said.
“Through your remarkable musical career, you have not only attained global recognition for juju music but have also remained a great promoter of our culture, language and values.”
Aiyedatiwa noted that Ade’s contributions to Nigerian music and his influence on generations of artists have secured him a lasting place in the country’s cultural history. He called the 80th birthday “a great honour and a significant milestone worthy of celebration,” describing Ade as an illustrious son of Ondo Kingdom whose achievements have brought honour to the state and enriched Nigeria’s cultural heritage.
Fans and admirers also took to social media to pour out goodwill messages and prayers. One user, @Gods Son, recalled growing up to Ade’s music in his village, highlighting a track dedicated to Oba Adeso Oye as among the artist’s best. “Happy Birthday great man, these are the people I call legend,” he wrote.
Others echoed similar sentiments. @richard Oluwagbem noted they share the same birth month, while @fshion peel simply said, “Omo this man just dey move. May he continue to live long.” Additional tributes from fans including @the peace ambassador, @dvmmytex and @olowookere described Ade as an “icon,” “legend” and “favourite legend” whose 80 years represent greatness and an unforgettable contribution to Nigerian music.
King Sunny Ade, born Sunday Adeniyi Adegeye on September 22, 1946, began his career in the 1960s and formed his own band in 1967, later known as the African Beats. He achieved international fame after signing with Island Records in the early 1980s, releasing albums such as Juju Music and Synchro System. The latter earned him a Grammy nomination in 1984 for Best Ethnic or Traditional Folk Recording — the first for a Nigerian artist. He later received another nomination for Odu.