The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Correspondents’ Chapel, Ekiti State Council, has felicitated Senator Ayo Arise on his 70th birthday, hailing his landmark contributions to education, technological innovation and democratic governance.
In a congratulatory message by the chapel’s Chairman Yomi Ayeleso and the Secretary Rasak Ibrahim on Monday, the Chapel described the former Senator representing Ekiti North Senatorial District as a trailblazer whose legacies, including his pivotal role in the establishment of the Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE) and his pioneering introduction of the first MasterCard to Nigeria and Sub-Saharan Africa, continue to impact national development.
In a congratulatory message issued on Monday, the chapel’s Chairman, ‘Yomi Ayeleso and the Secretary, Rasaq Ibrahim praised Arise for his role in facilitating the establishment of the Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE), describing the institution as an important contribution toj expanding access to university education in Ekiti State and beyond.
The chapel said that the university had strengthened the state’s educational landscape, created opportunities for young people to pursue higher education and contributed to the socio-economic development of its host communities.
Beyond politics and legislative engagements, the chapel noted that Arise had established a reputation in technological innovation long before venturing into partisan politics.
It recalled that, as Chairman of Card Technologies Limited, the senator spearheaded the introduction of the first MasterCard to Nigeria and the Sub-Saharan African region, describing the initiative as a landmark achievement in the country’s financial technology and electronic payment systems.
The chapel noted that the initiative in biometric technology and identity management demonstrated Arise’s capacity for innovation and his contribution to the development of technology-driven solutions, which subsequently earned him international recognition.
It also commended the senator for sponsoring people-oriented bills during his tenure in the National Assembly, noting that effective legislative representation should prioritise citizens’ welfare and support policies capable of improving their living conditions.
The chapel acknowledged his efforts in facilitating developmental projects across Ekiti North Senatorial District and implementing empowerment initiatives aimed at improving livelihoods and creating opportunities for constituents.
It said that such interventions underscored the importance of purposeful representation and the responsibility of elected officials to translate their mandates into tangible benefits for the people.
The chapel also applauded Arise for his support for the media, describing him as a passionate supporter of journalism who recognised the critical role of the press in promoting accountability, strengthening democratic governance and keeping the public informed.
It noted that support for the media was essential to sustaining an informed society, promoting accountability and strengthening the institutions that underpin democracy.
The chapel further acknowledged Arise’s contributions to the political development of Ekiti State and Nigeria, expressing the hope that he would continue to deploy his experience, influence and expertise to advance the interests of his constituency and the country.
It prayed for many more fruitful years for Senator Arise, wishing him good health, renewed strength and greater opportunities to contribute to the development of Ekiti State and Nigeria at large.