Former Governor of Osun State and Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, on Thursday led a host of eminent Nigerians in celebrating elder statesman and former Secretary to the Government of the old Oyo State, Chief Shuaib Oyedokun, as he marked his 91st birthday.
The event, held in Osogbo, also featured the public presentation of Oyedokun’s memoir, drawing political leaders, traditional rulers, academics, religious leaders, captains of industry, family members and admirers from within and outside Osun State.
Among the dignitaries who paid glowing tributes to the nonagenarian were former Senate President Anyim Pius Anyim, former Speaker of the House of Representatives Patricia Etteh, National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Sen. Ajibola Basiru, former Osun State Governor Chief Bisi Akande, Emeritus Professor Olu Aina, Chairman of Peculiar Ultimate Concern, Engr. Abel Adeleke, and the APC governorship candidate for the August 15 Osun governorship election, Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji (AMBO).
Speaking as Chairman of the occasion, Emeritus Prof. Olu Aina described Oyedokun as an exceptional administrator, bridge-builder and statesman whose life has been defined by integrity, selfless service and an unwavering commitment to peace.
According to him, Oyedokun remains one of the few Nigerian leaders whose record in public service continues to inspire confidence across generations.
He urged younger Nigerians to emulate the elder statesman’s virtues of honesty, discipline, patriotism and dedication to national development, stressing that the country needs more leaders of his character.
In separate goodwill messages, the dignitaries described Oyedokun as a patriotic Nigerian, seasoned administrator, consummate public servant and respected political leader whose contributions to nation-building and democratic governance remain invaluable.
They commended him for his decades of meritorious service to the old Oyo State, Osun State and Nigeria, noting that his wealth of experience, integrity and steadfast commitment to national unity have earned him admiration across political, ethnic and religious divides.
The speakers also praised his enduring role in mentoring younger politicians, fostering peaceful coexistence and promoting democratic values, describing his remarkable life as a source of inspiration for present and future generations.
They further noted that Oyedokun’s humility, simplicity and dedication to the common good have continued to distinguish him as one of Nigeria’s most respected elder statesmen.
“As you celebrate your 91st birthday, we pray that God grants you many more years in good health, wisdom and peace. By His grace, we look forward to celebrating your 100th birthday,” the dignitaries said.
A major highlight of the event was the review of Oyedokun’s memoir by Professor Gabriel Babawale of the Department of Political Science and Political Economy, University of Lagos.
Babawale described the memoir as a comprehensive account of Nigeria’s political evolution, public administration and democratic journey, saying it offers valuable lessons on governance, leadership and public service.
He added that the book would serve as an important reference material for scholars, policymakers, students and future political leaders.
Another highlight was the presentation of an award to Oyedokun by the Council of American Peace Advocates (CAPA) in recognition of his lifelong commitment to peace, principled leadership and selfless service.
Presenting the award, the organisation said the elder statesman’s life exemplifies the belief that lasting peace is achieved through integrity, sacrifice and unwavering commitment to humanity.
The memoir was formally presented by Mr. Lateef Popoola, a member of the Veteran Journalists Association (VJA), Osun State, who urged public office holders and aspiring leaders to draw lessons from Oyedokun’s decades of ethical leadership and dedicated service.
Responding, the celebrator expressed gratitude to God for preserving his life and thanked the dignitaries, family members, friends and associates who joined him in celebrating the milestone.
Oyedokun said the honour bestowed on him would further inspire him to continue promoting peace, unity and good governance.
Widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s most experienced political figures, Oyedokun has served in several leadership positions at both the state and national levels.
The celebration ended with prayers for his continued good health and long life, as guests described his enduring legacy of integrity, humility and exemplary public service as worthy of emulation.