With profound gratitude to God Almighty, I wish to use this platform on behalf of the good people of Kabba-Bunu/Ijumu Federal Constituency, to congratulate our highly respected leader, mentor, guardian and father; Prince Olushola Akanmode, on the occasion of his 70th birthday.
Sir, it is a thing of joy that having survived different vicissitudes of life, soaring above and over every storm, twists and turns, you have joined the exclusive Septuagenarian Club in good health and strength.
The joy of being born is to grow old and live a worthy life. To the glory of God, the Almighty has endowed you with uncommon grace to live a life of continued inspiration to numerous people not only in Kabba-Bunu/Ijumu Federal Constituency, Kogi State and Nigeria, but also across the shores of our country.
By the outpouring of His mercy, favour and wisdom upon you, you have been successful in all your endeavours. Indeed, at every stage of your illustrious career in the civil/public service and politics, you have always distinguished yourself as a quintessential technocrat, deep-thinking and resourceful administrator, responsive, visionary and resilient leader. At different epochal milieu of your outstanding careers; as one of the very top Permanent Secretary in the old Kwara State, Secretary to Kogi State Government (the first Okun person to attain such feat), and Deputy Chief of Staff in the Presidency (as one of the most senior administrative “engine room” who laid the structure for Nigeria’s democracy between 1999-2007), you exhibited unusual passion and unwavering commitment to the realisation of goals and objectives. Similarly, post-2007, at every national assignment and political party engagement, your desire for hard work and excellence are always very visible and evident.
Personally, I am always enamoured by your unflinching commitment and unapologetic drive towards the political, social and economic development of our Federal Constituency, Okun Nation and Kogi State. These and your legendary attitudes as a loyal, consistent and forthright party-man has been a massive source of inspiration and encouragement to me. Sir, I am most grateful for all your fatherly counsel, support, prayers, good wishes and criticism in all my political aspiration. Indeed, your continued interest in my political odyssey has contributed immensely to my modest achievement as the servant of the good people of Kabba-Bunu/Ijumu Federal Constituency.
Sir, as I join family members, colleagues, associates, friends, acquaintances and other numerous well-wishers within and outside the country on this momentous occasion, it is my sincere prayers that God Almighty will be with you always. I pray that you experience the grace, mercy and glory of God more than ever before in every area of your life. Also, I pray that God Almighty will endow you with good health, strength and long life to enjoy the fruits of your labour to Nigeria, Kogi and Kwara States and humanity, Amen.
HON YUSUF TAJUDEEN (TeeJay)