Former presidents, governors and other prominent Nigerians are expected to join the former Governor of Osun State, Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola, as he celebrates his 70th birthday on Feb. 3.
The Chairman, Planning Committee, Mr Gbenga Abiola, disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday in Abuja.
According to Abiola, other prominent leaders across the country including ex-governors, political leaders, captains of industry and religious leaders of all persuasions are also expected to celebrate with the former military administrator of Lagos State.
Abiola said to celebrate the milestone for the former governor of Osun, a 2-day events which would comply strictly with COVID-19 protocols had been lined up.
He said that the events would include a thanksgiving service at the Cathedral Church of Christ, Marina, Lagos on Feb. 3 at 11 a.m.
This according to him, followed by another thanksgiving service at the Oba Oyinlola Memorial Anglican Church, Okuku, on Saturday Feb.6 at 10a.m. for well-wishers from Osun and the environs.
Abiola said that due to COVID-19 pandemic concerns, a reception earlier planned for the Harbour Point, Victoria Island Lagos and other social events earlier scheduled for Okuku, Osun had been put off.
The planning committee chairman said the trajectory of Oyinlola’s life gave reasons for celebrations as he had seen all seasons, dry and wet.
“He lost his mother at the age of eight and became a complete orphan the following year.
“He joined the army as a Private at the age of 18 and was commissioned an officer at the age of 20. He did not miss any promotion cycle until he retired in 1999 as a well decorated Brigadier General,” he said.
According to him, very significantly, Oyinlola in his 30 years of military service participated in at least, five major operations without losing a finger.
“From holding a modest school certificate when he launched into the sea of life, the grace of God saw him attending four world class universities home and abroad holding two masters degrees.
“He crowned his laurels with becoming a barrister and solicitor of the Supreme Court of Nigeria,” he said.
Abiola said that as military administrator of Lagos State and civilian governor of Osun, Oyinlola left a legacy of selfless service and responsible leadership in both states.(NAN)