Picnews
The 50th birthday celebration of Dr. Ayodele Ogunsan, Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of the Lagos State Security Trust Fund (LSSTF), brought together prominent political leaders, security chiefs, business executives, traditional rulers and religious leaders to celebrate his contributions to public service, security coordination and community development.
A major highlight of the celebration was the unveiling of a book titled Dr. Ayodele Ogunsan: The Civilian General – The Man, His Wits, Passion, Influence, which documents his life, leadership philosophy, professional engagements and personal values.
The book was jointly unveiled by Chief Ajibola Bankole Adebutu, MON, Chief Executive Officer of JB Farms, and the Inspector General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu.
The occasion featured tributes celebrating Ogunsan’s leadership qualities, humility, commitment to service and ability to foster collaboration among security agencies and other stakeholders.
Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, described Ogunsan as a humble and dependable leader whose strength, compassion and dedication had earned him admiration over the years.
Reflecting on their relationship, which spans nearly a decade, the governor said Ogunsan had consistently demonstrated integrity, loyalty and a strong sense of responsibility in carrying out assignments.
Sanwo-Olu described him as an embodiment of the Yoruba value of Omoluabi, which emphasises good character, humility, discipline, respect and accountability.
He also commended Ogunsan for his attention to detail, noting that he could be trusted to deliver assigned responsibilities while anticipating challenges and providing necessary feedback.
The Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, represented by Mr. Moruf Akinderu Fatai, congratulated Ogunsan and encouraged him to sustain his commitment to strengthening security and protecting lives and property.
Similarly, IGP Disu praised Ogunsan’s humility and collaborative approach to resolving challenges, noting his ability to bring different security agencies together in pursuit of common objectives.
According to the police chief, Ogunsan’s willingness to humble himself in resolving problems reflects a leadership style that prioritises solutions over personal pride.
Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of First Bank of Nigeria, Olusegun Alebiosu, also praised Ogunsan for his humility, honesty and impact, describing him as a remarkable individual whose leadership continued to inspire others.
The Chairman of the LSSTF Board, Kehinde Durosinmi Etti, commended Ogunsan’s knowledge of security matters and the progress achieved through their professional relationship.
Other board members, including Akin Ogunranti, Executive Director of Zenith Bank, and Ubon Udoh, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of ASR Africa Initiative, praised his energy, dedication and belief in collective effort.
Beyond his professional achievements, the celebration highlighted Ogunsan’s Christian faith, family values and commitment to personal relationships.
Businessman and philanthropist Chief Olu Okeowo described him as a distinguished gentleman whose faith influenced his work, family life and vision.
Chief Adebutu also conveyed goodwill from his father, Sir Kessington Adebukunola Adebutu, and the Adebutu family, praying for many more years of good health, accomplishments and service.
Lagos State Commissioner for Special Duties, Gbenga Oyerinde, celebrated Ogunsan’s five decades of life and expressed hope that his future years would bring greater fulfilment and blessings.
The Alara of Ilara, Oba Olufolarin Ogunsanwo, commended Ogunsan’s diligence and dedication to service while acknowledging the support of his wife, Dr. Ajoke Ogunsan.
The Ologba of Ogba, Oba Lateef Egbeyemi, also praised the celebrant’s upbringing and family values, extending his goodwill to Ogunsan’s wife and children.
Family members equally paid tribute to the LSSTF chief executive. His brother, Abiodun Ogunsan, described him as a leader, mentor and father figure whose life reflects discipline and deep spirituality, while his brother-in-law, Dr. Sunday Alabi, recalled recognising his leadership qualities as far back as 1986/87.
The book, authored by Mayor Oki Olatunji Samson and co-authored by Abayomi Oyelami, chronicles Ogunsan’s engagements across business, public service, security-sector support, philanthropy and Christian faith.
The event attracted a distinguished gathering of government officials, senior police officers, military commanders, heads of security agencies, business leaders, traditional rulers and Christian ministers.
Among those present were the Chief of Staff to the Lagos State Governor, Tayo Ayinde; Deputy Chief of Staff, Sam Egube; Lagos State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Lawal Pedro, SAN; and Commissioner for Information, Gbenga Omotoso.
Other prominent attendees included UBA Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Oliver Alawuba; Lagos Bus Service Managing Director, Idowu Oguntona; and several senior officers of the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies.
Traditional institutions were represented by prominent monarchs, including the Ooni of Ife and Arole Oodua, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, who was represented by his wife, alongside other traditional rulers and Lagos white-cap chiefs.
Christian ministers and church leaders also attended the celebration, which featured worship, praise and thanksgiving for Ogunsan’s life and achievements.
The golden jubilee and book unveiling offered an opportunity to reflect on Ogunsan’s personal and professional journey, with tributes from colleagues, family members and public figures highlighting the importance of humility, collaboration, faith and service in leadership.
