Eniola Yekini
The Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, Ekiti State Council, has felicitated Senator Ayo Arise on his 70th birthday, describing him as a trailblazer in technology, education and legislative development.
In a congratulatory message on Monday signed by its Chairman, ‘Yomi Ayeleso, and Secretary, Rasaq Ibrahim, the chapel said the former lawmaker’s 70th birthday is an opportunity to reflect on a life of innovation and public service.
The journalists said Arise’s enduring legacies include facilitating the establishment of the Federal University Oye-Ekiti, FUOYE, and pioneering the introduction of MasterCard to Nigeria and Sub-Saharan Africa as Chairman of Card Technologies Limited.
They noted that FUOYE has expanded access to higher education, created opportunities for young people and boosted socio-economic development in its host communities, while his innovations in fintech and biometric identity management revolutionised Nigeria’s electronic payment system.
The chapel also commended Arise, who represented Ekiti North Senatorial District, for sponsoring people-oriented bills and attracting developmental projects and empowerment initiatives to his constituency.
It described him as a passionate supporter of the press who understands the role of journalism in promoting accountability and deepening democracy.
The chapel wished the senator good health, renewed strength and many more years of impactful service to Ekiti State and Nigeria.