The Arole Oduduwa, Olofin Adimula, and Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, CFR, Ojaja II, has congratulated Osun State former Governor and current Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Alhaji Adegboyega Oyetola, on the occasion of his 71st birthday.
In a congratulatory message released on Monday and signed by the Director of Media and Public Affairs, Otunba Moses Olafare, the Ooni described Oyetola as an exemplary leader and statesman, whose life and career reflect discipline, humility, and unwavering dedication to the service of humanity.
Oba Ogunwusi praised Oyetola’s remarkable transition from the private sector to politics, describing his journey as one marked by vision, integrity, and positive impact. He highlighted Oyetola’s tenure as Governor of Osun State as a period defined by prudence, stability, and people-oriented governance.
The monarch noted that in his current role as Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Oyetola has continued to show resilience and patriotism, with expectations high for his leadership to drive innovation and sustainable growth in Nigeria’s maritime sector.
“Mr. Oyetola is a man of wisdom, humility, and excellence who has consistently demonstrated outstanding leadership. His 71st birthday is not just a personal milestone but a celebration of impactful service to Osun, the Yoruba race, and Nigeria at large,” the Ooni stated.
He further commended Oyetola’s embodiment of Omoluabi values, citing his humility, sense of responsibility, and ability to build bridges across political and social divides as qualities that make him a role model for the younger generation.
The monarch offered prayers for long life, sound health, and divine guidance for the former governor, urging him to continue rendering selfless service to the nation—particularly in the marine and blue economy sector, which he described as critical to Nigeria’s economic diversification.
Oba Ogunwusi also used the occasion to call on Nigerian youths to emulate Oyetola’s virtues of discipline, integrity, and perseverance, emphasizing that such qualities are the bedrock of a prosperous and united society.
“On this special occasion, I join his family, friends, associates, and well-wishers to celebrate an illustrious son of Oduduwa whose contributions to governance and humanity remain worthy of commendation,” the Ooni said.
The statement closed with heartfelt birthday wishes to Oyetola, praying for many more years of peace, good health, and impactful service to the Almighty and humanity.