HEARTFELT 70TH BIRTHDAY TRIBUTE TO A TRAILBLAZER: MR TAJUDEEN AFOLABI ADEOLA, OFR, 'FOLA ADEOLA'

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I am honored to extend my heartfelt congratulations to you on the remarkable occasion of your 70th birthday, celebrated on Wednesday, January 10, 2024. It is my privilege to convey these warm wishes on behalf of my family and myself.

As I reflect on this milestone in your life, I am reminded of the profound impact you have had as my ‘Big Egbon’ and mentor in the fields of banking and public service. Your journey as an accomplished banker, shrewd investor, and venerable statesman is nothing short of inspiring.

Your dedication to deploying your God-given talents and resources for the development of people, businesses, and society is a testament to your unwavering commitment to making a difference.
Guaranty Trust Bank (GTbank), which you co-founded alongside the late Tayo Aderiokun, has not only modernised the banking landscape in Nigeria but also served as a nurturing ground for talents, producing industry leaders and notable public servants. Your visionary leadership at GTbank has left an indelible mark.

You are a true pace-setter, always staying ahead of your contemporaries. Your pioneering work in online and real-time banking has not only transformed the financial services sector in Nigeria but also paved the way for the digital banking revolution we witness today.

I take immense pride in having been one of your early mentees at Guaranty Trust Bank in 1991. The learning experiences and training under your guidance have profoundly influenced my character and have been instrumental in shaping both my private and public accomplishments.

As I look back on the path you have paved, I see an epitome of a thoroughbred professional and statesman. Your accomplishments and unwavering dedication to our beloved country and humanity at large fill me with pride.

On this special occasion of your 70th birthday, I offer my heartfelt prayers that Almighty Allah continues to bless you with wisdom, knowledge, good health, and abundant blessings.
Congratulations and a very Happy 70th Birthday, my dear ‘Big Egbon’ and mentor.

Senator Mukhail Adetokunbo Abiru, FCA

Chairman, Senate Committee on Banking, Insurance and other
&Financial Institutions.

Federal Republic of Nigeria.