Prof. Dayo Faduyile OON, Senator representing Ondo South Senatorial District at the National Assembly has felicitated Amb. Olusola Iji on his 70th birthday.
He described him as a towering statesman, a dependable party leader and a pride of Ondo South with outstanding leadership qualities.
Iji, who turns 70 on Nov. 7, hails from Igbobini in Ese-Odo Local Government Area of Ondo State.
In a congratulatory message made available to newsmen in Abuja on Saturday, Faduyile said the celebration of the elder statesman is not just a celebration of age, but a celebration of a life poured out in selfless service to humanity, to Ondo State and to Nigeria.
“Today, we celebrate a man whose life is a testament to loyalty, courage and uncommon commitment to the progressive cause.
“Amb. Iji is a political colossus, a bridge-builder and a father figure whose wisdom has continued to guide our district,” Faduyile said.
The Senator described the septuagenarian as a man of uncommon pedigree, who rose from the trenches of trade unionism and activism to become a former Chairman of the Alliance for Democracy (AD) and the Action Congress (AC) in Ondo State, and currently, Nigerian Ambassador to Russia where he represents the country with dignity, honour and distinction.
According to Faduyile, Iji’s life is a shining example of consistency, discipline and fidelity to principle, noting that even in the face of political storms, he remained steadfast, unshaken and committed to the growth of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the unity of Ondo South.
“At 70, Amb. Iji stands tall as an embodiment of integrity, humility and patriotism.
“He is a man who has given his all, his time, his resources, his intellect for the emancipation of our people. Ondo South is proud of him, Ondo State is proud of him, and Nigeria is proud of him,” he added.
Faduyile prayed for the celebrant, asking God to grant him many more years in sound health, divine strength and renewed vigour to continue to offer his wise counsel to the younger generation.
“On behalf of my family and the good people of Ondo South, I heartily congratulate our dear Ambassador, our leader and our father, on this glorious platinum jubilee.
“May your days be long, your strength be renewed like the eagle’s, and your legacy continue to speak for generations to come,” he said.
The lawmaker wished Amb. Iji a joyful celebration surrounded by family, friends and well-wishers.