Chief James Bola Odebiyi, the Chairman Board of Trustees of the Forestry Association of Nigeria ( FAN) and former two- time President of the Association has emphasised that his 80th Birthday is an opportunity for him to renew his service to God and humanity and renew his commitment to the forestry profession.
According to the octogenarian: “God Almighty has showed me tremendous mercy. His blessings over my life are so numerous. I do not know what I have done to warrant His blessings”.
“I see the opportunity of my 80th Birthday Anniversary as a call to renewed commitment to God and humanity. After that, I must say that I have a renewed commitment and love for the forestry profession.”
Meanwhile, various groups and individuals have continued to shower encomiums on the Octogenarian.
The Forestry Association of Nigeria in a congratulatory message signed by its National Secretary , Prof. Olukayode Ogunsanwo FFAN had earlier described the celebrant as a true champion of Environmental Conservation.
The statement partly read ” Your dedication, vision, and leadership have left an indelible mark on our organization and the forestry industry as a whole. Your tireless efforts to promote sustainable forestry practices, conservation, and environmental stewardship have inspired a generation of professionals. Your wisdom, guidance, and mentorship have helped shape the careers of many”.
“You are the only one in the history of FAN that has led our Association as President twice and to cap it up, you are the reigning Chairman of the Board of Trustees. Under your chairmanship, the Forestry Association of Nigeria has flourished, becoming a beacon of excellence in Sub-Saharan Africa. Your ability to bring people together, foster collaboration, and drive progress has been truly remarkable.
“A bridge builder, mentor, leader and worthy role model who has worked and lived for forestry with evidence dotting all spheres in this country. We celebrate your achievements, your passion, and your unwavering commitment to the forestry sector. You are a true champion of environmental conservation, and your legacy will continue to inspire and motivate us for generations to come.
The President of the Association, Dr. Afolabi Abiodun Tajudeen who led the FAN family to the Birthday Thanksgiving thanked God Almighty immensely for sparing the life of the great Forester to celebrate his 80th Birthday and prayed to God Almighty to continue to strengthen him.
The President, Federal College of Forestry, Ibadan Alumni Association, Prof. Segun Oladoye commended the celebrant who is also the Chairman, Boad of Trustees of the Alumni Association for his commitment to the association over the decades and for providing astute leadership.
His words : “We cannot appreciate Chief Odebiyi enough. He has remained steadfast, consistent and committeed to providing leadership in forestry and environmental issues. The success stories of the Alumni Association would be incomplete without a mention of the highly revered forester”.
According to Mr. Folorunso Ogunbanwo, Vice-Chairman, Forestry Association of Nigeria, Ogun State Chapter, the passion of Chief Odebiyi for FAN is extraordinary and unequal
“Chief Odebiyi, continue to sponsor himself to FAN Conferences and National Executive Council meetings even driving himself through long distances at age close to 80 years. The day he drove himself to Ibadan for a meeting after the day he was discharged from hospital was when I came to terms with the fact that his passion for FAN is extraordinary and unequal.
I want to say categorically that when it comes to tree planting, we have lost count of trees Chief Odebiyi had planted for organisations, corporate bodies, institutions and individuals including himself. There was a day he took me round to see some of the plantations he established for people and I was dazed. I want to tell us today that if we fail to rise up in a standing ovation for this icon of forestry, there is no doubt that mother earth and her children will roar with an ovation for him”.
Prof Nureni Adedapo Adewole, the Assistant National Secretary of FAN described Chief Odebiyi as a source of inspiration to generations of foresters.
“Your kindness, generosity, and warmth have touched countless hearts, and your infectious smile has brightened our lives. Today, we honor your life, your achievements, and your unwavering dedication to making the world a better place through promotion of forestry profession and green environment”.
Part of the activities marking the 80th Birthday celebation was the planting of trees which was facilitated by the Chairman, Forestry Association of Nigeria, Ogun State Chapter, Otunba Jide Fakayode.
ValidViewNetwork reports that Chief James Bola Odebiyi has always marked his landmark birthdays with the planting of trees to protect the environment and make the earth better.
