By Tunji Oladejo
As we celebrate the 81st birthday of Arch. Elder Kola Olawale, I celebrate a remarkable patriot, who has dedicated his life to serving others and contributing to the development of Ibadanland. A professional architect by training, Arch. Olawale has used his craft to improve the aesthetics and infrastructure of his beloved city, notably the new Olubadan Palace, Ibadan House, and the Secretariat of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), among others, leaving a lasting legacy that transcends generations.
Olawale’s commitment to the progress of Ibadanland is evident in his involvement with various organizations, including the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), The Progressive Forum, Ibadan (TPFI) and Oke Odo Club, Ibadan, where he is the current President.
As a stalwart of CCII, he has played a key role in promoting peace, unity and sustainable growth, while his tenure as the Chairman of TPFI, for unbroken ten years, saw him driving initiatives to improve education, healthcare, peace, security and infrastructure, among others, in Ibadanland.
On 26 October 2025, I took over from him as the Chairman of TPFI.
Olawale’s life is a shining example of kindness and dedication to serving others. His quiet contributions have touched many lives, cutting across political, religious and social boundaries. As we celebrate his birthday, I recognise the impact he has had on his community and the many lives he has touched.
On behalf of the progressive people of Ibadanland, I pay special tribute to Arch. Elder Kola Olawale for his doggedness, dedication and steadfastness. May God continue to bless him with good health, strength and wisdom as he continues to serve his community, and that “God … will make all grace abound toward him, that he, having all sufficiency in all things, may have an abundance of every good work (2 Corinthians 9:8). I pray that his legacy will inspire future generations to follow in his footsteps, working towards the progress and development of our great city and Yorubaland, and beyond.
Wishing Arch. Elder Kola Olawale, a joyous celebration, surrounded by loved ones and the many people whose lives he has touched. May his life continue to be a blessing to Ibadanland and beyond.
Happy 81st Birthday, Baba Arch. Kola Olawale!
Continue to age gracefully, Sir! Cheers!!!
Tunji Oladejo, JP, mnipr, who writes from the University of Ibadan, is the Chairman of The Progressive Forum, Ibadan (TPFI) via oladejo65@gmail.com.
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