- as Aiyedatiwa charges emerging leaders to emulate Falae’s virtues
- He’s a model of competence, patriotism, social democracy –Mimiko
- Falae credits divine grace for a life of survival, success
By Fisayo Akimduro
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has charged traditional rulers across the country to guide their subjects with wisdom, promote dialogue, discourage violence and foster unity among diverse communities amid growing security and social cohesion challenges.
Tinubu, who was represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, gave the charge during the launching of the autobiography of Oba Dr. Olu Falae titled: “The Triumph of Grace” held at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA) Victoria Island, Lagos.
The President stressed that at a critical time in the nation’s history, the role of traditional rulers has become more significant, noting that peace and security are not the sole responsibility of government but a collective duty requiring collaboration at all levels.
He urged royal fathers to ensure their palaces remain centres of peace-building, conflict resolution and moral guidance, leveraging the trust reposed in them by their people to strengthen unity and stability.
Tinubu reaffirmed that traditional institutions remain one of the most enduring pillars of society, describing them as vital partners in governance and the closest authority to the grassroots with enormous moral influence.
According to him, the Federal Government remains committed to strengthening partnerships with traditional institutions, recognising their invaluable contributions to national security, social harmony and grassroots development.
The President assured that his administration would continue to engage traditional rulers meaningfully in efforts to secure the country and promote peaceful coexistence.
He noted that through collective efforts, Nigeria can achieve a society where peace reigns, communities thrive and citizens feel safe and empowered.
Tinubu described Falae as a distinguished statesman, revered monarch and symbol of integrity and service.
He said the occasion was not merely a book launch but a celebration of a life defined by discipline, sacrifice, resilience and unwavering commitment to national progress.
Highlighting the monarch’s career, Tinubu said Oba Falae had made sterling contributions to governance and economic policy before ascending the throne as a custodian of culture and tradition.
He described the royal father as a highly respected traditional ruler and statesman who previously served as Secretary to the Government of the Federation and held key roles in Nigeria’s economic management.
Tinubu added that Oba Falae’s record in public office reflected dedication, intellectual depth and commitment to national development.
He noted that the monarch was honoured with the national awards of Commander of the Federal Republic, CFR and Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger, GCON, in recognition of his service.
The President also recalled his tenure as Minister of Finance, where he demonstrated discipline and foresight in managing the nation’s economy during a challenging period.
He said his leadership contributed significantly to policies that strengthened Nigeria’s economy, describing him as a technocrat of integrity and a patriot.
Tinubu further noted that the monarch continues to contribute to national discourse on governance, peace and development, while serving as a custodian of tradition.
He said as Chairman of the National Executive Committee of Afenifere since 2025, Oba Olu Falae has provided seasoned leadership, promoting unity, good governance and the advancement of Yoruba interests within the Nigerian federation.
The President described the autobiography as both instructive and inspirational, chronicling a life of courage, wisdom and humility, with an enduring legacy in public service and traditional leadership.
He said the story reflects not only the monarch’s journey but also Nigeria’s collective experience of perseverance and hope.
Tinubu congratulated him on the achievement, noting that the book offers valuable lessons for young Nigerians in perseverance, patriotism and integrity.
He prayed for a peaceful and impactful reign for the monarch and urged Nigerians to embrace the ideals of service, unity and faith as espoused in the book.
The host of the occasion, Ondo State Governor, Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, called for a return to value-driven leadership in Nigeria, using the life of elder statesman, Oba Olu Falae, as a compelling example of integrity, resilience and service.
The governor stressed the need for leaders to embrace discipline, honour and accountability in both public and private life.
Describing the occasion as intellectually significant, Aiyedatiwa said the gathering went beyond celebration, serving as a platform to reflect on leadership values and national direction.
According to him, the autobiography presents not just a personal story but a guide for navigating leadership challenges, insisting that integrity remains the most enduring currency for any leader.
He noted that the life of the former Secretary to the Government of the Federation offers practical lessons for younger generations, particularly in an era marked by shifting values and uncertainty.
“Diligence is not negotiable, adversity is not final and integrity remains the most enduring currency,” the governor said.
Aiyedatiwa emphasised that true greatness is defined by the ability to endure trials and make morally sound decisions, adding that leadership demands courage, wisdom and a strong sense of purpose.
He also reflected on Nigeria’s socio-economic evolution, noting that policy decisions, including past austerity measures, should be understood within the context of changing realities rather than judged in isolation.
“No society is static; there is always evolution, and each phase comes with its own demands and adjustments,” he stated.
The governor further described Falae as a symbol of disciplined service whose contributions as a top civil servant, minister and presidential candidate continue to resonate across generations.
He commended the scholarly review of the book by former Ondo State governor, Olusegun Mimiko, noting that such intellectual contributions deepen public appreciation of Nigeria’s historical and political trajectory.
Aiyedatiwa added that the theme of the autobiography highlights the role of divine grace in human endeavours, stressing that while effort and struggle are inevitable, purpose is ultimately shaped by a higher orchestration.
He urged Nigerians, especially emerging leaders, to draw inspiration from Falae’s life, describing the autobiography as a vital resource for understanding leadership, service and national development.
The governor congratulated the royal father on the publication, describing it as a lasting contribution to Nigeria’s moral and historical consciousness.
On his part, the chairman of the event, former Nigerian military Head of State, Abdulsalami Abubakar, was represented by former Defence Minister, Yayale Ahmed.
Addressing the gathering, Ahmed described Chief Falae as “a special species of this nation,” noting that anyone present would not regret attending the occasion.
“He is one of the finest statesmen, a man of vision, integrity, resilience and courage,” Ahmed said, praising the meticulous presentation and contributions of the younger generation present at the event, while highlighting three key aspects of Chief Falae’s legacy.
“First, his education. Education is more than literacy; it requires patriotism. Oba Falae exemplifies this, showing that without patriotism, the nation is doomed,” Ahmed stated.
He further emphasised Falae’s role in shaping Nigeria’s national development plans, particularly the second and third plans, underscoring the importance of structured governance and long-term planning for national progress.
Ahmed also lauded Chief Falai’s courage and democratic spirit.
“Despite intimidation, he stood firm to contest for the presidency, driven by his vision as a public servant committed to governance over politicking,” he remarked, encouraging attendees to draw lessons from Falai’s enduring commitment to public service and community engagement.
The chief launcher, Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, represented by his deputy, Barr Bayo Lawal, described the celebrant as an enigma and a visionary statesman.
In his book review, former Ondo State Governor, Olusegun Mimiko, lauded Chief Oba Olu Falae, describing him as a celebration of diligence, integrity and commitment to public service.
According to Mimiko, the book’s title captures Falae’s deep conviction in divine guidance.
“There is no coincidence with the God that he serves. He serves the God of precision,” he said, noting that faith is a central pillar of Falae’s life and work.
Mimiko stated that, even as a child in primary school, Falae maintained perfect attendance, never missing a lesson, even when illness would have excused him.
“This kind of discipline is very unusual,” Mimiko said. “It runs through the book.”
The former governor said Falae’s diligence extended into his political and public service career, noting that he navigated Nigeria’s complex political landscape with dedication and industry, whether in national conferences, European delegations or leading government teams.
According to him, Falae consistently worked to bring people together, produced manifestos based on careful seminars and research, and attended all sessions, demonstrating commitment and focus.
Mimiko further emphasised the monarch’s competence, patriotism and unwavering integrity, recalling the Dasuki Gate affair, where he said Falae mounted a passionate defence and was never indicted.
His ethical conduct, Mimiko added, earned praise from respected figures, including Chief Christopher Abebe, former chairman of UAC Nigeria, who described Falae’s approach to business at Niger Merchant Bank as “overwhelmingly impressive.”
On ideology, Mimiko described Falae as a thoroughbred social democrat, citing his words, “I grew up an instinctive defender of the underdog” and “Man must stand ready at all times to moderate any dysfunctional behaviour of market forces,” noting that his philosophy prioritises social equity.
While noting that the autobiography largely celebrates accomplishments and includes limited reflection on personal missteps, Mimiko said it remains a compelling chronicle of Falae’s life and its intersections with Nigeria’s modern history.
“The book interweaves his story with the country’s struggles, achievements and enduring hopes,” he said.
Concluding his review, Mimiko said Oba Falae’s life exemplifies the value of character in public service.
“Diligence may shape a career, but grace shapes a life,” he remarked. “Triumph of Grace offers lessons in discipline, courage, and integrity, and reassures all who still believe that honourable public service is possible in Nigeria.”
The chairman of the organising committee, Elemo of Akure, Segun Adedipe, welcomed guests, describing the event as a celebration of a life “rich in service, defined by integrity and anchored in an unwavering commitment to national development.”
Adedipe said the autobiography of His Royal Majesty, Oba Samuel Oluyemi Falae, provides a rare insight into decades of leadership across public service, traditional institutions and national discourse.
The book, according to him, “is not only a personal narrative but a national treasure intended to educate, inspire and challenge current and future generations of officials,” as he expressed gratitude for the presence of eminent dignitaries.
In his vote of thanks, Olu of Ilu Abo, Oba Dr. Olu Falae, expressed deep gratitude at the launch of his autobiography, The Way, the Triumph of Grace.
Oba Falae highlighted three moments that defined his life under grace. At birth, mistakenly thought stillborn — a visiting woman’s intervention saved him from premature burial. Also in 1969, while serving with Nigeria’s UN delegation in New York, he narrowly escaped death when a last-minute change of flights spared him from a fatal crash in London. The third instance occurred on his seventy-seventh birthday, when kidnappers seized him on his farm but tended to his wounds and protected him from the rain, revealing mercy even in danger.
“These experiences show grace at work,” he said, reflecting on his life. The monarch also recounted his career milestones, including his appointment as managing director of Nigeria Merchant Bank, which he described as a “political miracle.”
Dignitaries in attendance included wife of the celebrant, Racheal Falae; former Secretary to the Government of the Federation and former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Baba Gana Kingibe; former Governor of Ekiti State, Kayode Fayemi; former Military Governor of Ondo State, Bode George; former Minister of State for Defence (Navy), Olu Agunloye; former Deputy Governor of Osun State, Titi Tomori-Ponle; the Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi.
Others are Chairman of the Nigerian Ports Authority, Senator Adeyeye; Chairman of Elizade Motors and University, Ade Ojo; Executive Director of Corporate Services, Hon. Ifedayo Abegunde, as well as members of Afenifere, among others.
The Hope
