By Emmanuel Abi Couson
The crème de la crème of Kwara Politics and business tycoons of Kwara descent gathered on Monday 15th July to celebrate one of them, a world-class Neurosurgeon, Physician Executive, and cosmopolitan politician, Prof. Wale Sulaiman (CON) on his recent appointment as the Pro-chancellor and Chairman Governing Council of the Federal University of Health Science, Ila-Orangun by His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR.
The event which was held at Ilorin the capital city was an unusual gathering of Kwara political elites and industrialists to celebrate themselves.
The immediate former Governor of Kwara State, Alhaji AbdulFatai Ahmed, speaking at the event held at Prof. Sulaiman’s residence in Ilorin, emphasized that any upliftment for one Kwara Southerner is an upliftment for all, urging leaders to leverage their collective strength to negotiate for the rights and benefits of Kwara Southerners. He praised Prof. Sulaiman for uniting leaders in Kwara South during this critical time.
The Deputy Governor of Kwara State, Elder Kayode Alabi, in his keynote address, expressed gratitude to God for Prof. Sulaiman’s achievements and his unwavering commitment to the transformation and development of Kwara State.
Elder Alabi commended Prof. Sulaiman’s dedication, highlighting his substantial contributions to the state’s progress.
The deputy governor urged Prof. Sulaiman to leverage his extensive expertise and vast knowledge to effect significant changes at the Federal University of Health Sciences, Ila-Orangun.
He emphasized the importance of Prof. Sulaiman’s new role, encouraging him to continue his legacy of excellence and innovation.
In his speech Hon. Raheem Adedoyin, board member of the International Press Institute (IPI) and former Kwara Commissioner for Information, encouraged Kwara Southerners to adopt a culture of celebrating their own.
He highlighted Prof. Sulaiman’s dedication to ensuring his community receives the best in any capacity he serves and called on Kwara South leaders to avoid divisions caused by partisan politics.
Hon. Bashiru Omolaja Bolarinwa, former Chairman of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) in his remark at the reception event stressed that Prof. Wale Sulaiman has the wherewithal to manage the institution. According to him, “Prof. Sulaiman is an ambassador of Kwara South and he deserves our collective prayers to excel in his new office. I appreciate His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR for this meritorious appointment.”
Chief Iyiola Akogun, an APC chieftain, congratulated Prof. Sulaiman on his new appointment, advising him to navigate the politics of his office with humility.
He expressed prayers for a successful tenure as Prof. Sulaiman takes on the responsibilities of Pro-Chancellor and Chairman.
Senator Sulaiman Ajadi commended Prof. Sulaiman’s significant achievements and reaffirmed his integrity and exceptional human relations.
He suggested that Prof. Sulaiman’s extensive experience could position him for a future role as Nigeria’s Minister of Health.
Former KWHA member, representing Balogun/Ojomu constituency, Hon. Saheed Popoola acknowledged Prof. Wale Sulaiman’s leadership traits and comradeship. In his words, “I am so excited today that my closest political associates whom we both contested under the flagship of the Social Democratic Party, but are 100% loyal to Asiwaju got appointed as Chairman and Board member of institutions by His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR. God has always been behind those who stood for truth and justice. I have no doubt that there are better days to come for all of us.” Said Popoola.
Other attendees which include the Group Managing Director/CEO of KAM Holding Limited, Dr. Kamoru Yusuf (MON), Alhaji Khaleel Bolaji, and Alhaja Sikirat Anako, Board member of the Federal Polytechnic Offa, Hon. Ganiyu Zubar, representative of Senator Representative Kwara South, Arch. Lola Ashiru-Alhaja Balikis Alasonla and Mr. Tosho Alabi, representative of Hon. Ismaila Tijani – Barr. Adejumo, Muhammed Ayanshola, Barr. Rasak Alabi, Alhaji AbdulFatai Akorede, Hon. Bisi Fakayode, and Dr. Ibrahim Ayanda, among others, expressed their confidence in his ability to lead the Federal University of Health Sciences, Ila-Orangun, towards a brighter future.
Prof. Sulaiman, who has a distinguished career in medicine and academia, is expected to bring his wealth of experience to the institution, fostering an environment of growth and development.
His appointment as the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council is seen as a strategic move to enhance the university’s stature and impact.
