Ogun State Forestry Icon, Ogunbanwo Retires After 35 Years of Service to Nature

The Founder and CEO of ValidViewNetwork, Dr. Kayode Ogunjobi FHEA, FFAN has joined the Ogun State Ministry of Forestry in celebrating the retirement of one of its most distinguished and versatile officers, Mr. Folorunso Taofeek Ogunbanwo, who he described as a symbol of professionalism, resilience, and passion for nature.

Mr Ogunbanwo left the services of the Ministry on August 22, 2025 after 35 years of meritorious service.

In a special tribute, Dr. Kayode Ogunjobi, an Associate Professor of Wood Utilisation and Protection extolled Mr. Ogunbanwo’s uncommon commitment, describing him as “a forester with the refinement of a banker and the heart of a nature guardian.”

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Ogunjobi wrote: “I celebrate you on your retirement on August 22, 2025, after 35 years of outstanding service in the Ogun State Ministry of Forestry. I remember vividly the first thing that caught my attention about you—it was your style. You were that forester who always wore a tucked-in shirt with a tie, looking every inch like a banker. At first, I thought you were just a handsome officer who loved fashion. But as I got closer to you, I discovered that you were far more—a diligent, well-grounded forester, richly endowed with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills in our noble profession.”

Highlighting their close working relationship within the Forestry Association of Nigeria, Ogun State Chapter, Ogunjobi recalled with admiration:

“You displayed loyalty, humility, and dedication. No matter how short the notice, there was no assignment I gave you that you did not deliver on time—and with excellence. That diligence left a lasting impression on me. I will be happy to work with you again and again. There was no single achievement we recorded without your valid contributions and interventions.”

He described Mr  Ogunbanwo’s professional depth and eloquence as a great attribute:

“Among the foresters that I know, you stand out in communication and in professional competence. I saw this clearly when we worked together on consultancy assignments—your expertise and insight were remarkable.”

Ogunjobi also praised the resilience and devotion of Ogunbanwo to the forestry cause, even when under pressure:

“Many times you were misjudged and placed in the hot seat, yet you stood firm and composed. Nothing anybody said or did could deplete your love for our dear association and you were always ready to take up next assignments. This, to me, is an epitome of strength and humility. Your love for the profession and the association is immeasurable!”

Closing his tribute, Ogunjobi called on the new retiree to continue his service to humanity and nature beyond the civil service:

“Now that you are free from the constraints of civil service, this is the time to give life to those things you always believed were right but could not pursue fully. The Forestry Association of Nigeria, and indeed all true lovers of nature, need you now more than ever before. I wish you a fulfilling retirement, sound health, and greater impact in the years to come.”

The forestry community in Ogun State and across Nigeria has continued to hail Mr. Ogunbanwo as not just a dedicated officer, but as an inspiring figure who embodies what it means to nurture nature with vision and passion, ValidViewNetwork reports.