The Osun State Government held a state banquet to honor and celebrate distinguished service chiefs who are indigenes of the State and have reached the zenith of their careers in the military and custom service.
Those honoured are the immediate past Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Oladayo Amao; the current Chief of Army Staff, Lt General Taoreed Lagbaja and the current Controller General of Customs Service, Mr Bashir Adeniyi.
The event, which was graced by prominent personalities, traditional rulers, service chiefs, representatives of communities and dignitaries, was on Wednesday in Osogbo.
The Governor in his address stated that the state banquet was an opportunity to recognize the exemplary service and dedication of these top national officers, who have brought honor and prestige to Osun State.
He reiterated that they have not only served the nation with distinction but have also elevated Osun on the national and global stage.
“The retired Air Marshal, Amoo, who expanded the Air Force presence in Osun, was applauded for his contributions. His legacy includes the establishment of the Air Force research agency in the state.
“The government is now in discussions with the Air Force to further develop the state airport, building upon this legacy.”
Adeleke also commended General Lagbaja, the Army Chief for his affinity with the state’s development. “He has been instrumental in restoring peace in various parts of Osun, and he recently commissioned a civil-military school project in Ede. His commitment to the state’s progress has made him a valued partner in its development.”
The Customs Chief, Bashir Adeniyi, was acknowledged for his longstanding support for Osun and its people. His dedication to the state and the nation, from his time as a Public Relations officer to his role as a controller at MM1 Airport, has earned him the gratitude of the state.
Adeleke expressed his deep appreciation to President Ahmed Bola Tinubu for recognizing excellence in these exceptional service chiefs. Their competence, efficiency, and unwavering commitment to the nation have made them invaluable at this critical juncture in Nigeria’s history.
The Governor urged these illustrious sons to continue their passionate service to the nation and remain shining ambassadors of Osun.
He also called on them to be partners in the state’s development initiatives, as Osun endeavors to overcome its challenges and achieve a brighter future.
Speaking with InsightMedia on behalf of Ilobu community, the Vice President of the Ilobu-Asake Development Union, Alhaji Ishaq Awotunde commended the governor for honouring an Ilobu son.
Awotunde said the whole community is behind the Lagbaja and everyone is praying for his success as the Army Chief.
“We as sons and daughters of Ilobu-Asake, a peace-loving, hospitable and development-oriented community, are happy for this development. In particular, we rejoice with our father HRM Olobu of Ilobu His Royal Majesty, Oba Asiru Olatoye Olaniyan II (JP) and the Ilobu High Chiefs for the appointment of our very own son as the Chief Of Army Staff, not since the time of General Alani Akinrinade (forty three years ago) has a top seat in the Nigerian army in particular being from Osun State, in fact not been from Yoruba land.
“To our dear illustrious son, General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, congratulations and welcome home. As we earnestly pray for your success and the entire Nigeria Army in the heavy national responsibilities thrusted on your capable shoulders, we continue to bask in the euphoria of your appointment, knowing assuredly God will use you to bring extensive Federal government presence to our ancient town Ilobu and Osun State in general. Be rest assured that the whole community of Ilobu is behind you and we’ll continue to support you come rain, come sunshine.”
The State government also presented land to each of them for residential buildings in Osogbo GRA.
