Encomiums, goodwill messages and prayers have trailed the birthday celebration of the National President of Ekinrin-Adde Community Development Association (EACDA), Elder Deinde Toyin Komolafe, with members of the community describing him as a father, mentor, unifier and committed driver of community development whose exemplary leadership style is worth emulating.
The birthday, which brought together messages from traditional institutions, community leaders, youths, EACDA branches, colleagues, friends and members of his immediate family, provided an opportunity for many to reflect on Elder Deinde Toyin Komolafe’s leadership and contributions to Ekinrin-Adde.
Across the various tributes, a thematic description was that of a quiet but purposeful leader whose influence is felt more through his actions than his words.
One of the tributes described the President as a remarkable father, mentor and leader, praising his wisdom, kindness, humility and selfless service. The writer noted, that, Elder Deinde Toyin Komolafe’s influence had gone beyond the office he occupies, making him a source of guidance, hope, wisdom and strength to many people.
Another admirer described him as humility personified and a dependable friend and quintessential community leader, praying for greater wisdom and divine grace as he continues his service to the community.
His ability to listen, think deeply and act decisively also featured in the birthday messages as one tribute described him as a man of few words whose interventions are marked by wisdom and impact, while another praised his discipline, knowledge and relationship with paper and pen as reflections of his thoughtful approach to leadership.
From the traditional institution came a felicitation through Akinrin Press, on behalf of His Royal Majesty, Oba Johnson Kolade Otitoju, the Akinrin of Ekinrin community, and the entire Ekinrin Aboriginals at home and in the diaspora.
The message referred to Elder Deinde Toyin Komolafe as a respected community leader and patriotic son of Ekinrin-Adde who had demonstrated commitment to the development, unity and progress of the community. It prayed for greater wisdom, renewed strength, sound health, peace of mind and many more fruitful years in service to the people.
The EACDA Ibadan Branch also joined the celebration with a message that described the President as an energetic and esteemed leader whose dedication to the growth and unity of Ekinrin-Adde remained worthy of recognition.
For the branch, the birthday was not merely a celebration of another year but an opportunity to reaffirm its appreciation for his leadership and the contributions of his administration to the community.
One of the funniest but powerful tributes came from one of his admirers who celebrated him as an exceptional boss, leader and father, and also humorously described his humility as so remarkable that it appeared he had attended a School of Advanced Humility and Humanitarianism.
Another tribute referred to him as an unsung hero, a unifier, compassionate and soft spoken leader, good listener, problem solver and chief strategist. He was also praised as a community development enthusiast, mentor and repository of wisdom and strength.
The Ekinrin-Adde Students’ Union (EASU) celebrated the president as a champion of change and an architect of a modern Ekinrin-Adde whose support for the Union and sacrifices for the community are noteworthy.
The Ekinrin-Adde Youth, under the leadership of Comrade Tanimola Thomas Kayode, gave particular attention to the celebrant’s relationship with young people.
In its message, the youth described him as a father, leader and future builder, noting that youth empowerment and development had received serious attention under his leadership. The group also recalled his personal acts of generosity and empowerment even before he assumed the leadership of EACDA.
The National Executive of EACDA, through the National Publicity Secretary, Pastor Emmanuel Ajibola Ogungbuyi, officially felicitated with the President by highlighting his exemplary leadership, dedication, wisdom, humility and commitment to the peace, unity and development of Ekinrin-Adde.
The Okada Union, represented by its chairman, Mr. David Sanmi, also commended the President’s commitment to the people, particularly the youth, while family members, friends and community stakeholders sent prayers for long life, sound health, wisdom and continued impact.
Other messages came from Barrister Kolade Sunday Olutekunbi, High Chief F.O. Ikumapayi, Mrs. Komolafe Titilayo, Mrs. Olugbami Agnes and several other members of the community numerous to mention.
The fusillade tributes painted a portrait of a leader whose appeal cuts across age groups and sections of the community. They spoke of humility, generosity, wisdom and a willingness to devote personal resources and energy to the advancement of others.
The celebrant Responds
In a message of appreciation after the celebration, Elder Deinde Toyin Komolafe expressed gratitude for the outpouring of goodwill, prayers, calls and messages he received.
He acknowledged the community’s traditional rulers, royal highnesses, high chiefs, elders and senior citizens including opinion moulders, Ekinrin-Adde Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), and every group of people who celebrated him on his birthday while describing the gesture as simply overwhelming,
He, however, used the occasion to look beyond the celebration, renewing and reaffirming his commitment to the community.
“On a final note, I pledge to further re-dedicate my total commitment to the peace, progress and unity of Ekinrin-Adde now and always,” he said.
He concluded his message by giving glory to God.
– Temibi Samuel
Special Assistant on Media to EACDA National President
