The ancient city of Ikere-Ekiti was aglow with joy on Sunday as indigenes gathered for a Thanksgiving Service in honour of Her Excellency, Ambassador Oluyimika Ayotunwa Olumilua over her appointment as Nigeria’s Ambassador Plenipotentiary to Tokyo, Japan.
In a statement issued by Comr. Olawale Ogunyebi, grassroots journalist and Special Assistant on Media to Harrison Olaniyi Alonge (HOA), Harrison Alonge described the appointment of Ambassador Olumilua, as a remarkable milestone and a testament to her distinguished record of service, dedication, competence, and commitment to the advancement and representation of Nigeria on the global stage.
In a sermon delivered by the District Head of Christ Apostolic Church (CAC), Oke Ibukun, Pastor J.O.S. Akerele, from the Book of Psalms 3:16, he reminded the congregation that human beings come into the world with nothing and will ultimately depart with nothing when called by God.
He therefore urged political leaders, public office holders and the entire congregation to use their positions to positively impact the lives of citizens and to contribute meaningfully to the work of God.
The Man of God passionately begged people to accept Christ first,while other good things will be added to it.
The cleric specifically commended the humanitarian and Christian contributions of Ambassador Olumilua, particularly her support for the people of Ikere-Ekiti and the church of God.
In her remarks, the celebrant, Ambassador Ayotunwa Olumilua, described her appointment as a manifestation of God’s grace, noting that she did not lobby for the diplomatic position. She therefore returned all glory and thanksgiving to Almighty God.
She expressed profound appreciation to her grandfather, who ensured that her parents received quality education, stressing that without that sacrifice and investment in education, her present achievements may not have been possible.
The legal icon also paid tribute to her late husband for his immense responsibility, love, and support during his lifetime, acknowledging that her success story would be incomplete without recognising his contributions.
The Ambassador used the occasion to advise parents, particularly mothers, to provide proper upbringing and quality education for their children. She encouraged parents not to compare their children with others but to recognise their individual abilities, nurture them appropriately, and provide a strong foundation for a purposeful life.
She promised to continue supporting initiatives that promote community development, employment opportunities and empowering women and youths across the state.
The fundraising session for the ongoing church project was led by Kabiyesi Olukere of Odo-Oja, Ikere-Ekiti, who called on other dignitaries and well-meaning individuals present at the thanksgiving Service to support the completion of the project.
He appealed for collective contributions towards the advancement of God’s work and the development of the church.
The celebrant and her children danced forward alongside special guests and members of the church in thanksgiving and appreciation for God’s faithfulness, mercy, and grace upon her life and family.
The service was marked by prayers, worship, thanksgiving, and expressions of gratitude for the remarkable journey that has culminated in her new diplomatic assignment.
Among the distinguished personalities who graced the occasion were:
Former Ekiti State Deputy Governor, Surv. Biodun Aluko, her predecessor, Ambassador,Dr(Mrs) Eniola Ajayi and her husband
Chairman, Ikere Local Government, Hon. Olu Adamolekun and his wife.
Representatives of Ikere Development Forum (IDF), who attended in the company of an illustrious son of Ikere-Ekiti and France-based businessman, Harrison Olaniyi Alonge (HOA)
Chairman, Ekiti State Teaching Service Commission, Hon. Mrs. Rhoda Ojo
The Olukere of Odo-Oja, Oba Obasanyin, and members of the Olukere-in-Council
Chairman, National Centre for Agricultural Mechanisation, Ilorin, Kwara State, Hon. Olumuyiwa Oloro
Chief Medical Director, Federal Teaching Hospital, Ido-Ekiti, Prof. Ogundipe,
Vice-Chancellor, Federal University of Technology and Environmental Sciences, Iyin-Ekiti, Prof. Aribisala
Vice-Chancellor, Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science and Technology, Ikere-Ekiti
Captains of industry and other political and community leaders, including Otunba Ayodele, AIG Igbekele, and Femi Akomolafe, Chairman and Secretary NBA,Ikere-Ekiti branch among other important personalities.
The presence of these distinguished personalities further underscored the significance of the occasion and the widespread goodwill surrounding Her Excellency’s appointment.
“As Her Excellency begins this new chapter of diplomatic service, it is our confidence that she will continue to make Nigeria and Ekiti State proud through exemplary leadership, integrity, dedication, and purposeful representation.
“We pray for divine wisdom, sound health, strength, protection, and uncommon grace as she assumes her diplomatic responsibilities in Tokyo, Japan.
“Congratulations and God bless you, Your Excellency.”
