The Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu congratulated the former Nigeria High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Dr. Christopher Kolade and former Secretary-General of the Commonwealth Chief Anyaoku, GCON, on their 90th birthday anniversary.
The congratulatory message was contained in his goodwill message at the celebration of the two elder statesmen at an event tagged: “Nonagenarian Concert” and the Presentation of a Book titled: “The Spirit of Our Treasures”, organised by the Heritage for Life Foundation and Greenland Classics.
Speaking at the Anglican Church of Nativity Parkview Estate, Ikoyi, Governor Sanwo-Olu affirmed that both men stood out clearly as the shining stars of their generation not only as a result of their immense contributions to the growth and development of the country but more importantly about their values, virtues and uncompromising principles for which they are well known and acknowledged by people within and outside the country.
The Governor, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, ‘Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, said “As they both age gracefully, it has pleased God Almighty to allow us to enjoy their presence today. They deserve to be celebrated and applauded for their courage to walk the uncommon path, establishing enduring legacies for the younger and upcoming generations to emulate both of them in private and public lives”.
According to him, his administration is highly blessed to have both of them reside in Lagos, the Centre of Excellence. He added that the Lagos State Government is proud to associate and support the ceremony, noting that the support underscores a recognition and willingness to align with the initiative that promotes honesty, integrity and selflessness which are essential requirements to build a truly prosperous, equitable egalitarian and sustainable society.
While expressing optimism that the book will be of immense benefit to the younger and future generations by inspiring them to live a life worthy of emulation of the two great fathers, he applauded the Chairman, Board of Trustees and Management of Heritage for Life Foundation and Greenland Classics for organising a deserved concert in their honour.
The ceremony anchored by Pastor Ituah Ighodalo was attended by distinguished eminent personalities including the Bishop of Diocese of Lagos, Right Reverend Ifedola Okupevi; Catholic Bishop of Sokoto, Right Reverend Mathew Kukah; Mrs. Bola Obasanjo and Chairman, Channels Television, Dr. John Momoh among others.