Nigeria’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to Austria and the United Nations Office and other International Organisations in Vienna, Dr. Florence Ajimobi, has mourned the death of Professor Isiaka Kolawole, describing him as a distinguished scholar and committed public servant who contributed to the administration of her late husband, Senator Abiola Ajimobi.

In a condolence message issued on Sunday, Ajimobi described Kolawole, who served as Special Adviser to the late governor and later as Deputy Executive Secretary of the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), as a trusted associate who brought intellect, diligence and a strong sense of responsibility to his assignments.

She recalled his years of service in the Ajimobi administration, noting that he distinguished himself through his depth of knowledge, loyalty and commitment to the administration’s vision of building a better Oyo State.

According to her, Kolawole was among those who understood the philosophy and direction of the administration and contributed his expertise to its efforts to reposition the state.

“Professor Isiaka Kolawole was more than an appointee in my husband’s administration. He was a man of intellect and conviction who believed strongly in public service and gave his best whenever he was called upon to serve.

“My late husband valued people of ideas, competence and integrity, and Professor Kolawole was one of those whose intellectual contributions and commitment to service earned his respect. His passing is therefore a painful loss, not only to his immediate family but also to Ibadan, Oyo State and Nigeria,” she said.

Ajimobi also recalled Kolawole’s contribution to Nigeria’s education sector, particularly his service as Deputy Executive Secretary of UBEC, describing his career as one substantially devoted to the advancement of knowledge, education and human development.

She said the true measure of Kolawole’s life would be reflected in the people he touched, mentored and influenced, as well as the institutions and public policies to which he contributed during his lifetime.

The ambassador extended her condolences to Kolawole’s wife, children, family members, colleagues and associates, urging them to draw comfort from the legacy of scholarship and public service he left behind.

“On behalf of my family, I extend my heartfelt condolences to the family of Professor Isiaka Kolawole. We share in their grief at this difficult time.

“May the Almighty grant them the strength and fortitude to bear this irreparable loss and grant Professor Kolawole eternal rest,” she said.