President Muhammadu Buhari has rejoiced with ace photographer, musician and publisher, Sunmi Smart-Cole, and family, on his 81st birthday, September 25, 2022, celebrating the octogenarian for legendary impact on media, music and the country’s development.
President Buhari affirmed that the diligence, excellence and experience of Smart-Cole on cameras, musical instruments and managing people and events over many years continue to inspire and guide a new generation, learning his wise counsels on turning skills into trade, and spreading influence.
The President noted the vision of the international professional photographer, who learnt his trade in United States, but sought growth and impact in Nigeria and Africa, sustaining a legacy of capturing history, storing and sharing memories, both of the highly placed, and less privileged.
President Buhari extolled the warmth, candidness and foresight of the renowned photo-journalist, who worked with the Guardian newspaper as Photo Editor, before spreading his tentacles into private business and consulting, interfacing with leaders, home and abroad.
The President prayed for the wellbeing of Smart-Cole and his family.