Happy Birthday, Akin Ogunbiyi, A Phenomenal Leader At 59 By Ismail Afolabi

It is true that we are what we repeatedly do. But then, certain individuals, without a doubt, are born natural leaders and go-getters. Dr Akin Ogunbiyi falls in the latter category, standing tall among his peers and leaders of thoughts who are in tune with modern times and realities of the post-truth era.

For a fact, the expression that says if you have a dream, don’t just sit there. Gather courage to believe that you can succeed and leave no stone unturned to make it a reality, is not lost on the insurance guru.

Beyond the mere rhetoric associated with seeking power for the sake of it, reading the life of Ogunbiyi, one cannot but agree that, like every good leader, Ogunbiyi is a determined humanitarian who understands the plight of the masses, a ready to use tool for speedy transformation of the society and the people.

Since the very moment our paths crossed and I had the rare privilege to work and walk with him, every year, I fall more in love with the detribalised and prudent Nigerian, an iconic and truly phenomenal leader with a global mindset.

He is a quiet achiever and helper who is always found in times of trouble and a kind of leaders who do not leave their people in the lurch. Accordingly, despite the gloomy political landscape of Osun, rather than retreating in the face of blackmails and endless campaigns of calumny aimed at harming his hard-earned reputation, he consistently remains at the forefront, encouraging scholarship and daily advocating for secured, promising, workers friendly and just society.

Today, Sunday, marks the 59th birthday of the finance guru and sound business acumen. Given his selfless nature and purposeful leadership; the special kind of unbridled empathy that endeared him to so many, I am not surprised by the nonstop stream of well-wishes pouring in, in celebration of the milestone.

He is indeed an amazing role model whose sense of direction is remarkable and truly inspiring. The epitome of service and humility daily motivates us and everyone around him to do our very best. I join his admirers and other well wishers to celebrate God’s grace in his life and wish the phenomenal being a happy birthday. Oga, thank you for always being there. I love your strength and your determination. Cheers to many great years ahead.

– Ismail Afolabi writes from Osogbo, Osun State.