Makinde felicitates Babalola at 60, describes him as ‘a simple, kind-hearted person’

Governor of Oyo state, ‘Seyi Makinde’, has felicitated with Engineer Femi Babalola on the occasion of his 60th birthday anniversary, describing him as a very simple, kind and hearted person who is also very supportive. 

At a special church service on Thursday to commemorate Engr Femi Babalola, FNSE, FHIHE’s 60th birthday anniversary held at New Reservation Area Baptist Church, Iyaganku, GRA, Ibadan, the Governor, who was represented by his deputy, Barrister Abdul-Raheem Adebayo Lawal, added that the celebrant has been successful since his tender age. 

While congratulating him on his diamond jubilee, he described Olufemi as a visionary leader whose contributions to the socio-economic and political growth of Oyo State are not secret, a notable civil engineer, a hotelier, and a political icon.

According to him, as an Engineer, CEO/MD Pentagon Engineering Consultant, Femi Babalola has been able to distinguish himself in the field of Engineering Consulting and Practices having to his credit numerous projects for various clients at international, Federal, State, Local Government and private levels.

“And as a Hotelier, his contribution to hospitality business is second to none. The initiative which has earned some youths job opportunities and lead to reduction of crime and poverty in the society.

“While as a Political Icon, Femi Babalola is a strong and active Party man. PDP Stalwart to the core and consistency is his second name. Yes, a consistent PDP man who has ever remained in the party come rain come shine.”

The Deputy Governor, who was in company of top government functionaries, urged him to continue with his good work, adding that it is sweeter now celebrating his birthday in good health, capable, and in freedom than when he was 50 year old. 

Lawal, who also emphasised that politics is a game rife with envy and jealousy, pointed out that it is impossible to be bothered while one is making waves in politics, adding that the celebrant is a man that is focused and for that has made him to achieve greatness in life. 

“On behalf of His Excellency, I wish you all the best in life. Femi is looking 40 as well as our madam looking 30. So, I pray that God will continue to be with you and I say congratulations.

“I pray that Almighty God will grant you many more years in robust health, divine wisdom and abundant resources to be more relevant in your society.”

Earlier in his sermon,the pastor of the church, enjoined the celebrant to be grateful to God for the abundance grace he has given him to be alive and to mark his 60th birthday anniversary. 

He said it takes the grace of God for a man to achieve where others fail, noting that grace is extraordinary ability and what distinguishes as well as what God adds to individual lives for the capacity. 

He prayed that the celebrant’s 60th birthday would usher in a new chapter in his life and that the Lord’s favour would be upon him. 

Engnr. Femi Babalola, who expressed his gratitude to God  at the event, recounted how he was planning to celebrate his 50th birthday anniversary and expressed his joy with how well things had worked out for him. 

He recalled how he was relieved when EFCC case, which involved N8 billion for granting a project without a budget, was resolved in 2011. 

He added that he has the honour of celebrating his 60th birthday and that he had always made sure that nothing bothered him. 

The political icon further emphasized that envy and jealousy are among Nigeria’s problems, claiming that when Governor Makinde assumed office, they were best of friends within four months. Later, however, they had disagreements, but he thanked God that they have put their differences behind them and now best of friends. 

He also appreciated the Governor for being the first to send him a birthday wishes praying that God will continue to smoothen their relationship. 

Ayodele Fayose’s wife, Justice Yerima, the chief judge of Oyo State, Oyo Commissioner for Information Dotun Oyelade, Commissioner for local government and chieftaincy matters Segun Olayiwola; Commissioner for lands, Williams Akinfunmilola, Chairman of the Civil Service Commission Alhaji Kamordudeen Aderibigbe and BCOS Chairperson Dupe Fehintola, were among notable dignitaries present at the event.