Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, on Saturday praised Chief Pius Akinyelure as a man who has selflessly served humanity in various capacities without seeking anything in return.
Governor Aiyedatiwa made these remarks at Olofin Grammar School, Idanre, where Chief Pius Akinyelure was honored by Oba (Dr.) Frederick Adegunle Aroloye, the Owa of Idanre Kingdom, for his outstanding contributions as an illustrious son of the kingdom.
Chief Pius Akinyelure is the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC).
During the event, Aiyedatiwa noted that such an honor is rare and bestowed only because the people of Idanre recognize Akinyelure's worth. He emphasized that history has already been made, and Akinyelure's legacy will be remembered for many years to come.
Aiyedatiwa praised Akinyelure's humanitarian services, noting that the award for his outstanding performances and community impact serves as a lesson to everyone to serve their community, state, and nation.
"This is a call to further dedicate yourself to serving your homeland. Continue your commendable efforts, as society is observing and recognizing all your contributions. Your actions inspire others and leave a lasting impact on the community," he said.
In his response, Chief Pius Akinyelure, speaking on behalf of the other awardees, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the Idanre Development Assembly for deeming him worthy of the award. He acknowledged the honor as a significant recognition of his efforts and contributions.
Chief Akinyelure emphasized that this recognition would serve as a powerful motivation for him to continue and expand his efforts, not only for the development of Idanre but also for the betterment of Nigeria as a whole.
He reaffirmed his commitment to contributing positively to society and pledged to intensify his work in community development and nation-building. This recognition, he noted, reinforces the importance of selfless service and inspires him to strive for even greater achievements in the future.
Other distinguished individuals who were honored include Chief Gabriel Akin Deko (posthumous award), Prince Afolabi Ayinuola (posthumous award), Retired Honorable Justice Sunday Akintan (antemortem award), and Chief Mrs. Omolara Ogomudia (antemortem award).
In his earlier remarks, the Owa of Idanre, Oba (Dr.) Frederick Adegunle Aroloye, expressed his pride in being the traditional father of this distinguished son of Idanre. He noted that the honoree's generosity to the Idanre community and its people justifies this civic reception.
Furthermore, he highlighted that Idanre Local Government is one of the largest producers of cocoa in Ondo State and a leading producer of timber. He said that despite these significant contributions to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of Ondo State and Nigeria, infrastructural challenges have hindered Idanre's socioeconomic development. He appealed to the state government to urgently address these issues.
Commissioner for Water and Sanitation, Sunday Akinwalire, in his goodwill message, thanked the governor for upgrading the status of the Obas in the Idanre kingdom. He also expressed gratitude for the groundbreaking projects initiated by the governor in Idanre, including efforts to collaborate with the Minister of Water Resources to ensure the provision of water in the local government area.
In attendance were the Deputy Governor, Dr. Olayide Adelami, Secretary to the State Government, Hon. Tayo Oluwatuyi, Chief of Staff, Prince Segun Omojuwa, Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Olamide Oladiji, Members of the State Executive Council, Special Advisers, traditional rulers in the Idanre kingdom, among other eminent personalities.
