Chief Adebisi Bamidele Akande, widely known as Bisi Akande, is a respected Nigerian politician and elder statesman. He served as the Governor of Osun State from 1999 to 2003 and later became the first National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), one of Nigeria’s leading political parties.
Early Life and Background
Chief Bisi Akande was born on 16 January 1939 in Ila-Orangun, present-day Osun State, Nigeria. He hails from a distinguished Yoruba family known for its community leadership and strong traditional values. His father, Pa Lawani Bamgbose Akande, was the grandson of Pa Ladimeji of Ile Asudan in Isedo quarters, while his mother, Madam Hunmuani Akande, was the daughter of Chief Elemese Adesina of Ile Obalumo, also in Isedo, Ila-Orangun.
Education
Akande began his formal education at the Native Authority School, Oke Aloyin, Ila-Orangun, where he studied from 1946 to 1952, before proceeding to Methodist School, Ode-Idanre, in 1953. He later attended professional training courses abroad. In 1974, he studied at the International Computers Limited Training College, Windsor, England, and in 1975 at the London School of Computer Technology. In 1979, he completed further administrative studies at the International Institute of Public Management in Washington D.C., USA.
Career and Political Life
Before entering politics, Chief Akande worked with British Petroleum (BP) Nigeria from 1963 to 1979, rising to the position of Manager, Systems and Computer Services. His administrative competence and technical expertise made him a sought-after figure in government service.
In 1979, Akande was appointed Secretary to the Government of old Oyo State, a role he held until he became Deputy Governor of Oyo State in November 1982 under Governor Bola Ige.
Following the return to democracy in 1999, Akande became the Governor of Osun State, serving until 2003 under the Alliance for Democracy (AD). His tenure was marked by efforts to strengthen state institutions, promote education, and enforce fiscal discipline.
He was later instrumental in the merger of major opposition parties that formed the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2013, where he served as the first interim National Chairman. His leadership was central to establishing the APC as a formidable national political party.
Personal Life
Chief Bisi Akande was married to Chief (Mrs.) Omowumi Akande (née Adeleke). The couple married in December 1966 and shared a long union until her passing on 11 July 2017 at age 73. They were blessed with children and grandchildren, including Dr. Temitope Ilori (née Akande), who has followed in her father’s footsteps in public service.
Publications
Chief Akande is also an author. His memoir, titled “My Participation”, chronicles his life in public service, his political journey, and the evolution of Nigerian democracy. The book serves as an important historical account of Nigeria’s political transformation from the late 20th century to the present.
Legacy
As of 2025, Chief Bisi Akande is 86 years old. He is widely respected as one of the key architects of modern Nigerian politics, admired for his discipline, loyalty, and contributions to governance and democracy in Nigeria.
Sources
Bisi Akande Official Website – The Man Bisi Akande
