*Senator Sharafadeen Alli, Governorship Candidate of the All Progressives Congress, in Oyo State of Nigeria, described Ambassador Taofeek Arapaja, a former Deputy Governor of the state, on the occasion of his 68th Birthday, describing him as a rare gift to Oyo State, Nigeria, and to humanity in general
Emmanuel Akosile | ConsumerConnect
Senator Sharafadeen Alli, Governorship Candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), in Oyo State, has felicitated Ambassador Taofeek Arapaja, a former Deputy Governor of the state, on the occasion of his 68th Birthday.
Alli, in a birthday message he personally signed Tuesday, November 10, 2026, in Ibadan, Oyo State capital, described Ambassador Arapaja as a brave citizen, a true statesman, and a proud son of Ibadan whose contributions to democracy and good governance cannot be overemphasised.
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The governorship hopeful in the 2027 elections also described Arapaja as a rare gift to Oyo State, Nigeria, and to humanity, having served in different capacities with courage, loyalty, wisdom, and an uncommon passion for the people of Oyo State.
Alli recalled Arapaja’s distinguished journey in public service, from Chairman of Ibadan South East Local Government Area (LGA), to Member of the House of Representatives, to Deputy Governor of Oyo State from 2007 to 2011 under the late Otunba Adebayo Alao Akala, and to Nigeria’s Ambassador to Iran and later to Jordan, where he served until 2015.
He further stated: “Ambassador Arapaja has excelled as a family man, a politician, a public administrator, a diplomat, and as a patriot.
“In every assignment, he has demonstrated the courage to speak the truth, the commitment to serve, and the passion to lift others.”
The Governership Candidate stated: “He has never been found wanting in leadership, character, and commitment.
“He is a bridge builder and a mobiliser whose political sagacity continues to shape the direction of Oyo State politics.”
Wishing the Arapaja many happy returns, Senator Alli prayed for good health, long life, and renewed strength for him to continue his good work for Oyo State and for Nigeria.
He wrote: “As you add another year today, I celebrate the enigma, the bridge builder, and the mobilizer. Happy 68th Birthday, Your Excellency. Oyo State is proud of you.”