Tag: Sarafa Ishola

  • Ambassador Isola commiserates with Yusuph Olaniyonu, ex-Ogun State Commissioner for Information, on wife’s death

    Ambassador Isola commiserates with Yusuph Olaniyonu, ex-Ogun State Commissioner for Information, on wife’s death

     

    …Felicitates with Ace Journalist, Sir Ademola Osinubi, on 70th Birthday

     

    A former Secretary to Ogun State Government and immediate-past Nigerian High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Ambassador Sarafa Tunji Isola, has extended condolence to Alhaji Yusuph Olaniyonu, former Ogun State Commissioner for Information on the death of his wife.

    In a condolence message personally signed by him on Monday, Ambassador Isola said ” It is with profound grief and a heavy heart that I, Ambassador Sarafa Tunji Isola, extend my deepest condolences to my esteemed brother, Alhaji Yusuph Olaniyonu – veteran journalist, distinguished lawyer, former Commissioner for Information in Ogun State, and dedicated media adviser to Senator Bukola Saraki – on the untimely passing of his beloved wife, Hajiya Aisha Odunola Olaniyonu.”

    According to him, Hajiya Aisha, who departed this world on October 14, 2025, at the young age of 52, was a beacon of grace, resilience, and unwavering support to her family, friends, and community.

    “Her life was a testament to quiet strength and profound love, leaving an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing her.

    “As a devoted mother to Oladapo, Oladipo, and Oladepo, a caring daughter to her aged mother, and a cherished sister to her siblings, she embodied the virtues of compassion and fortitude that will continue to inspire those she leaves behind.

    “In this hour of unimaginable sorrow, which has robbed Alhaji Olaniyonu of a true life partner and pillar of strength, I join countless others in mourning the loss of such a remarkable woman. Her recent support during Alhaji Olaniyonu’s own health trials exemplified her unyielding spirit and devotion, qualities that made her not just a wife and mother, but a true heroine in the eyes of her loved ones.

    “We submit to the will of Almighty Allah, who in His infinite wisdom has called Hajiya Aisha home.

    “May He grant her the highest place in Al-Jannah Firdaus and surround her soul with eternal peace. To Alhaji Olaniyonu, his children, extended family, and all whose lives she touched, I pray for divine comfort and the fortitude to bear this irreparable void.

    “Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you during this trying period,” he said.

    The ex-envoy, in another statement, extended his heartfelt congratulations to Sir Ademola Osinubi, describing him as “a distinguished journalist and media icon,” on the occasion of his 70th birthday.

    Isola lauded Sir Osinubi’s remarkable contributions to the journalism profession and his unwavering commitment to truth, integrity, and excellence in media practice.

    He described Sir Osinubi as “a trailblazer whose illustrious career has inspired generations of journalists and left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s media landscape.”

    “Sir Ademola Osinubi’s dedication to ethical journalism and his passion for informing and enlightening the public have made him a respected figure in Nigeria and beyond. As he celebrates this milestone of 70 years, I join his family, friends, and colleagues in honoring his legacy and wishing him continued health, wisdom, and fulfillment,” Ambassador Isola said.

    He further prayed for God’s blessings upon him, expressing hope that his wealth of experience would continue to guide and inspire the younger generation in the pursuit of excellence in journalism.

  • Independence anniversary, a moment of reflection–Amb. Sarafa Isola

    Independence anniversary, a moment of reflection–Amb. Sarafa Isola

     

    By

    The Immediate-past Nigerian Ambassador to the United Kingdom, Ambassador Sarafa Tunji Isola, OFR, says the Nigeria’s Independence anniversary is not only a moment of celebration but moment of reflection.

    According to him, they call us to evaluate how far we have come, the challenges we still face, and the opportunities that lie ahead.

    The former envoy stated this in his Independence Day message made available to newsmen on Wednesday in Abuja.

    It reads: “Sixty-five years ago, on October 1, 1960, our beloved country Nigeria raised the green-white-green flag of sovereignty and entered into the family of free nations. Today, as we mark our 65th Independence Anniversary, we are reminded of the courage, sacrifice, and vision of our founding fathers who believed in the possibility of a united, prosperous, and peaceful Nigeria.

    “Independence anniversaries are not only moments of celebration; they are also moments of reflection. They call us to evaluate how far we have come, the challenges we still face, and the opportunities that lie ahead. At 65, Nigeria remains a nation of immense potential – blessed with abundant natural resources, dynamic youths, rich cultural heritage, and resilient citizens who continue to innovate and inspire even in the face of adversity.

    “Yet, true independence is not measured by the lowering of colonial flags but by the lifting of our people from poverty, insecurity, and disunity into dignity, safety, and shared prosperity. At this milestone, we must recommit ourselves to building a Nigeria where justice reigns, where diversity is celebrated, and where opportunities abound for every citizen regardless of tribe, faith, or background.

    “Our journey has not been without trials. We have faced civil strife, economic downturns, and political turbulence. But we have also witnessed remarkable progress – democratic consolidation, global recognition of our cultural and intellectual capital, entrepreneurial ingenuity, and the rising influence of Nigerians on the world stage. These achievements remind us that our story is one of resilience, hope, and renewal.

    “As a nation, the time has come to embrace a new spirit of interdependence – between government and citizens, between states and the federation, and between Nigeria and the global community. The challenges of the present demand collaborative solutions, innovative governance, and a leadership that unites rather than divides.

    “On this 65th Independence Day, I urge every Nigerian to see themselves as co-builders of our national destiny. Let us invest in education, uphold integrity in public and private life, strengthen our democratic values, and create an economy that works for all. Above all, let us foster unity in diversity, for therein lies our greatest strength.

    “Nigeria at 65 is not a story of limitations but of possibilities. Let us move forward with renewed faith that the Nigeria of our dreams is within reach – a Nigeria that is secure, prosperous, inclusive, and globally respected.

    “Happy 65th Independence Anniversary to the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”