The Ogun State Government has once again reiterated its commitment to continue to support, recognize and identify with notable sons and daughters of the State for their invaluable contributions to the continued growth and development of humanity, which have brought the State thus far.

The  Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun renewed this commitment at a reception to mark the 80th birthday of a former Secretary to the State Government/Head of Service, Otunba Albertson Babatunde Osokoya, held at his residence in GRA, Ibara Housing Estate, Abeokuta.

Represented by the Head of Service, Mr. Kehinde Onasanya, the Governor assured that his administration will not only continue to support, recognize and identify with them, but will continue to look up to them for mentorship and counselling, while they should in turn continue to provide the needed support, guidance and prayers to make his tenure more successful.

He described the celebrant as an administrator of great repute whose illustrious career, exemplified through dedication, integrity and tireless commitment to the State and the nation at large, spoke volume of his professionalism and excellence in all the capacities that he served.

"Professionally, Otunba Osokoya achieved enviable feats that many couldn't accomplish in the Public Service. Rising through the ranks with remarkable diligence, he attained the position of a Permanent Secretary at the young age of 35 in 1980. Combining the Office of the Permanent Secretary and the pioneer Chief of Staff to the Governor at the same time was a testament to his excellence in administration which demonstrated his competence, leadership and foresight.

"By the age of 49, he was appointed Secretary to the State Government and also performed duties of the Head of Service. No doubt, he held the position meritoriously until his statutory retirement in 1996. However, due to his outstanding and exemplary performance throughout his service years, he was called upon to serve as the Chairman of the Ogun State Civil Service Commission and he equally delivered between November 2003 and May 2011. This established a benchmark for professionalism, integrity and commitment to the welfare of the Civil Service - a legacy that continues to resonate today", the Governor said.

Prince Abiodun pledged commitment to uphold the values of the octogenarian by continuing to prioritize good governance, transparency, accountability and inclusivity, as well as continue to create opportunities for all, empower the youths and build a prosperous future for all in the Gateway State.

Earlier in his speech, the Chairman of the day, a retired Judge in the State and former Chairman of Ogun State Football Association, Hon. Justice Dehinde Soremi, described Otunba Osokoya as a very intelligent, quiet, unassuming, great man, who gave himself selflessly for the service and upliftment of the Civil Service and the State at large.

He urged him to continue to be the good person he is, devote his all to the service of God more than before and not give room for any offence to be harboured, no matter what and prayed God for his unending mercies over him.

Responding, the octogenarian, Otunba Albertson Babatunde Osokoya, who was full of gratitude to God and his family for the grace of life and support given to him to attain the ripe age of 80, ascribed all he is to God's benevolence and appreciated the Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun for providing quality leadership in the State.

The celebration drew people from all walks of the society including former Ambassador to the United Kingdom, Alhaji Sarafa Tunji Isola, retired Heads of Service, amongst whom were Surveyor Godwin Ogun, Mrs. Iyabo Odulate, Elder Sola Adeyemi, Mr. Kolawole Fagbohun,  members of the Association of Retired Heads of Service and Permanent Secretaries led by its Chairman, Engr. Adeniyi Abiola, the Body of Permanent Secretaries led by Mrs. Ajimo Dada, Executive Secretary, BON, Prof. Yemisi Bamgbose, directors, staffers from the Civil Service, family members, in-laws, friends and well wishers.