Sanwo-Olu, Makinde, others extol Akinyemi, Gambari, Onu, Irukwu’s virtues

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and his counterparts from Ogun, Oyo, Borno and Nasarawa States, Dapo Abiodun, Seyi Makinde, Babagana Zulum and Abdullahi Sule respectively, were among distinguished personalities that extolled the virtues of former External Affairs minister, Prof. Bolaji Akinyemi; former Chief of Staff to the president, Prof. Ibrahim Agboola Gambari; former Minister of Science and Technology, Ogbonnaya Onu and former President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the late Prof. Joseph Ogbonnaya Irukwu.

They spoke at a book presentation, titled, “Hallmarks of Labour” Volume 11 in honour of Akinyemi, Gambari, Onu and Irukwu held at Nigerian Institute of International Affairs Victoria (NIIA), Victoria Island, Lagos yesterday. The  book was authored by Patricia Otuedon-Arawore.

Sanwo-Olu was represented by Secretary to the State Government, Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin and Makinde was represented by his deputy, Bayo Lawal. Describing the author as a great Nigerian, Zulum added that he has learnt a lot from the exemplary lifestyle of Prof. Gambari. He also expressed appreciation to Gen. T Y Danjuma for his generous assistance during the insurgent attacks, noting that there are over 50,000 widows as a result of the insurgency.

Sule also described Prof. Gambari as a father. He stressed the need for everybody to make Nigeria better than what it is presently. He stated that Nigeria can learn a lot from the successes recorded in Rwanda.

Sanwo-Olu described the awardees as outstanding Nigerians, adding that their contributions to national development remain unmatchable. “As government, we pledge our unwavering support to your vision of nurturing a society where the youths draw inspiration from contemporary role models,” he said.

Makinde observed that at a time when youths don’t appreciate integrity and labour, it is important to re-direct the minds of youths.
On his part, Abiodun said the awardees’ lifestyle is worthy of emulation. “I’m happy with what the Foundation is doing by rewarding patriotism, excellence and diligence, which is not common in Nigeria. I believe we must join hands with this Foundation. They should come and conduct retreat for civil servants in Ogun State.”

Chairman of the event, Phillip Asiodu noted that the four awardees were role models, three were federal ministers and all four headed very important national institutions.

“They have attained national and international prominence through hardwork, integrity, transparency and positive public-spirited service.”In his response on behalf of the awardees, Prof. Akinyemi said, “For honouring us today, you are honouring Nigeria. You are sending a signal to people outside that they will not be forgotten despite the difficulty they go through.

He added, “Prof. Gambari and I follow each other in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or NIIA. We have remained friends, colleagues and we continue to share passion for the growth of this country.”