Lateef Femi Okunnu, SAN, CON,
The Ansar-ud-Deen Society of Nigeria has felicitate with the elder statesman and legal luminary, Lateef Femi Okunnu, SAN, CON, on the occasion of his 93rd birthday, describing him as a national treasure, whose life exemplifies service, integrity and visionary leadership.
The Islamic society in a statement issued today by its National President, Mosediq Adeniji Kazeem, SAN, FCArb, on behalf of itself and the Ansar-ud-Deen family worldwide, praised Okunnu’s enduring contributions to national development and to the growth of the Islamic body.
Okunnu, who clocks 93 on February 19, 2026, was commended for his distinguished public service career, including his tenure as former Federal Commissioner of Works, and for his continued role as a respected voice on national issues.
The Society described him as a trustee and elder whose guidance has shaped its direction over the years. It noted that among his numerous interventions, his donation of a large parcel of land to the Society remains a landmark contribution. The property, it said, has become a critical source of funding for the repositioning and expansion of the Society’s programmes.
Beyond the land donation, the organisation acknowledged his “countless acts of support, mentorship and philanthropy,” adding that his influence continues to inspire generations of members across Nigeria and in the diaspora.
The statement further highlighted Okunnu’s role as a mentor to young people and his reputation as a custodian of Nigeria’s history, particularly his detailed recollection of events shaping Lagos and the country at large. His wealth of knowledge and experience, the Society said, has consistently provided guidance not only within Ansar-ud-Deen but also in broader national discourse.
The Society also acknowledged his impact on educational institutions, including Summit University, where his support was described as lasting and meaningful.
“As the Society celebrates this remarkable milestone, we pray for continued health, joy and divine blessings for Alhaji Lateef Femi Okunnu,” the statement read, expressing gratitude for what it called his lifelong commitment to faith, community development and national service.
The organisation concluded by reaffirming its appreciation for Okunnu’s legacy of integrity and leadership, noting that his example remains a beacon for current and future generations.
Okunnu, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) and recipient of the national honour of Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON), is widely regarded as one of the country’s most respected legal minds and elder statesmen.
