Kwarans Celebrate Prof. Wale Sulaiman as He Turns 55

Describe him as rare leader whose vision inspires and heart beats for the betterment of humanity

By Mercy Folounsho

Residents of Kwara State and different socio – political groups yesterday celebrated the birthday of the Chairman and Pro-Chancellor, Federal University of Health Sciences, Ila Orangun, FUHSI and President RNZ Foundation, Prof. Wale Sulaiman in grand style.

The Prof. Wale Sulaiman (PWS) Youth Council Leadership, the highest youth body of the Prof. Wale Sulaiman Youth Movement, in collaboration with the Kwara South Youth for Prof. Wale Sulaiman (KWSY4PWS) and the Irewolede Youth Group, organized a series of activities on Friday to commemorate the birthday anniversary of their principal.

The celebration commenced with a joint interfaith prayer session held at Prof. Sulaiman’s Ilorin residence.

Representatives of the Board of Trustees and Executives of the youth bodies offered prayers in both the Muslim and Christian traditions, seeking God’s continued strength for the world-class neurosurgeon, global philanthropist, unconventional politician, and advocate for youth empowerment.

In a show of humanitarian commitment inspired by Prof. Sulaiman’s legacy, the groups also paid an unannounced visit to the Kwara State Children Reception Centre – Home of the Needy. During the visit, they donated foodstuffs and refreshments to the orphanage, reflecting the giving spirit of their principal.

Speaking during the outreach, Hon. Jimoh Abdulrasheed (JAAT), a revered member of the PWS Youth Council Leadership, emphasized the importance of giving back to the less privileged. He noted that the gesture was inspired by Prof. Sulaiman’s philanthropic philosophy, which has nurtured a generation of youths who strongly believe in selfless service.

Similarly, Hon. Adekunle Adewumi (JEGA), a member of the Kwara South Youth for PWS Movement, applauded Prof. Sulaiman’s humility and unique leadership style, which has increased his followership across Kwara State.

He explained that the voluntary act of giving back was also meant to complement the Kwara State Government’s efforts in supporting the less privileged.

Comrade Rotimi Babatunde, President of KWSY4PWS, expressed gratitude to the management and staff of the Children Reception Centre for their dedication to nurturing vulnerable children. He described the orphanage as “the most important constituency of our principal,” noting that Prof. Sulaiman’s example of generosity guided the youths in celebrating him in such a meaningful way.

In her remarks, Mrs. Jegede Funmilayo, Head of the Kwara State Children Reception Centre, expressed appreciation to the youth groups for their kind gesture. She lauded Prof. Sulaiman’s legacy of philanthropy, adding that it was heartwarming to see young people emulate his spirit of service. She also prayed for long life, prosperity, and greater achievements for Prof. Wale Sulaiman, CON.

Another highlight of the celebration was the presentation of a large portrait of Prof. Sulaiman by Comrade Niyi Ereoye, on behalf of the Irewolede Youth Group. The portrait was received by the PWS Youth Council and KWSY4PWS representatives.

According to Irinoye, Prof. Sulaiman is “a shining light in Kwara State,” adding, “May that light never go dim. We pray that God will continue to use him to transform Kwara South, Kwara State, and Nigeria at large.”

Yeye Princess Roseline Olubunmi Alaofin (née Fagbemi), a supporter of the PWS Movement, applauded the youths for the noble initiative and contributed refreshments for the orphanage visit.

Also, as tributes continue to pour in for the Akeweje of Ajase -Ipo land, the Founder, Goldenrod Media Solutions – the publisher of Nigeria News Times, Hajia Aminah Salako – Adekunle described Prof. Suleiman as a leader who defies convention and redefines elitism —not through privilege, but through commitment , purpose, integrity, and service.

” This is to honor the journey of an extraordinary personality whose presence uplifts, whose vision inspires, and whose heart beats for the betterment of humanity.

Your leadership is not measured by titles or accolades, but by the lives you’ve touched, the minds you’ve awakened, and the hope you’ve ignited in places where it once flickered.

Your journey is a testament to the power of authenticity in politics. You speak truth to power, elevate the voices of the unheard, and challenge the status quo with courage and clarity. In a world often driven by self-interest, you stand as a beacon of hope, proving that leadership can be both principled and transformative” she stated.

The day’s activities were rounded off with a special Jumu’at Prayer at the Gaa Akanbi Central Mosque, Ilorin, where prayers were offered for Prof. Wale Sulaiman’s continued good health, long life, and greater achievements.

The commemoration, marked by prayers, charity, and solidarity, reflected the enduring impact of Prof. Wale Sulaiman’s humanitarian and political philosophy on the younger generation across Kwara State.