The Osun Development Association (ODA), a distinguished assembly of non-partisan Osun State elders, thought leaders, technocrats, and professionals, has honoured three prominent indigenes of the state for their outstanding contributions and service to the state and country.
At a special recognition event held at the weekend in Lagos, with the theme: ‘Honour Well Earned’, the association presented awards of special recognition and honours to the former Governor of the state and current Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola; the Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen Taoreed Lagbaja, and the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Mr. Adewale Adeniyi, who are all indigenes of the state holding prominent roles in the administration of President Bola Tinubu.
The association also at the event inducted 14 new members into its membership.
Speaking about the objective of the event, the Chairman of the association, Dr. Segun Aina, stated that: “This gathering did not only provide us with an opportunity to network, socialise and exchange deep thoughts on issues of state and nation, but it is also an avenue to recognise, celebrate and identify with three indigenes of our beloved state who have distinguished themselves in their career paths evidenced by their recent call to higher national service with their appointments into strategic roles in the Federal Government of Nigeria by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“We hope to seize this occasion to exchange useful ideas and thoughts with them and provide our support to enhance excellent performance during their tenure.”
Speaking about the new inductees, Dr. Aina noted that: “Another major element of today’s event is the induction of 14 new members into our revered association. Membership of ODA is by invitation and these personalities, made up of 11 men and three women, have been carefully screened and found well prepared and eminently qualified to join others to drive the ideals of our association and support the development of Osun State and its people.”
He noted that the association has since its establishment in 1995 played a crucial role in shaping the social-economic fortunes of the state through its various interventions such as peace and conflict resolutions, policy advocacy, public enlightenment programmes, thought leadership, investment facilitation and has been a great pillar of intellectual and material supports to every successive government in the state.
Expressing his appreciation for the recognition, one of the award recipients, Oyetola, noted that: “I am truly humbled and immensely grateful to the sons and daughters of my beloved state, Osun, under the auspices of Osun Development Association, for organising this special reception in my honour to mark my appointment as the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy.
“I am also aware that two other illustrious sons of Osun State, the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, and the CG of Customs, Wale Adeniyi, are equally being honoured today. On our behalf, I say we are indeed grateful for this rare honour and gesture.”
