By Bilesanmi Abayomi
Adedeji Odulesi, a renowned polyglot, has drawn attention to the remarkable journey of Mr. Bayo Ojeyinka, a Yoruba man from Ede, Osun State, who has risen to the rank of Permanent Secretary in the Anambra State Civil Service under Governor Charles Soludo.
Ojeyinka’s story began decades ago when he was deployed to Anambra State for the National Youth Service Corps. Distinguished as the best corps member of his set, he was immediately offered employment in the state’s civil service. For nearly three decades, he served with dedication, commitment, and loyalty, a career that has now culminated in his elevation to one of the highest administrative positions in the state.
In celebrating his achievement, Odulesi described Ojeyinka’s rise as a symbol of cultural harmony and unity between the Yoruba and Igbo communities. He noted that Ojeyinka’s fluency in the Igbo language is so natural that one might mistake him for a native speaker. The same cultural blend extends to his family, as his children are fluent in both Yoruba and Igbo, embodying a heritage that bridges two regions.
Expressing gratitude for his appointment, Ojeyinka said he considered the promotion not a right but a rare privilege, acknowledging the brilliance of other officers who equally merited recognition. He thanked Governor Soludo for the honour and Ndi Anambra for their support and kindness over his 29 years in the state. He pledged to repay this trust with greater efficiency, transparency, and fairness in his service.
At the celebration of his appointment, Yoruba drummers and friends gathered, their rhythms merging into the festivity, a cultural symbol that reflected the very unity his story represents. Odulesi further noted that Ojeyinka’s hometown, Ede, has historically maintained strong ties with the South East, with many Yorubas from the town well integrated into Igbo communities.
Ojeyinka’s journey stands as a reminder of the strength found in Nigeria’s cultural bonds and the possibilities that open when diversity is embraced.