By Tunde Oso

The contributions of the former governor of Ondo State, Dr Olusegun Mimiko, to the development of the State have been described as tremendous.

Member, representing Ondo East/West Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Mr. Abiola Makinde, who stated this in a statement made available to Vanguard on Thursday, explained that the transformative and developmental paradigm that Mimiko has brought to Ondo State has positively affected the lives of individuals and numerous communities, been an astute administrator.

According to the lawmaker, “One would imagine why your impacts and imprints endure till this very moment despite exiting public office several years back; the answer is not far-fetched, yours has been a life defined by transformative and purposeful leadership hinged on long-standing values and clearly thought-out solutions.

“The very enduring innovative and carefully planned solution-driven landmark accomplishments in the health sector that gave birth to specialised institutions- Mother and Child Hospital, the world-class Gani Fawehinmi Diagnostic Center, Trauma Centre, University of Medical Sciences- earned the Sunshine State tremendous recognition even as the WHO carried out a study on the Abiye safe motherhood programme.

He said, “Of your tremendous and sterling accolades, I am a proud beneficiary of your leadership recruitment initiative and school of thought that has produced a significant number of leaders across several sectors and sections of society; many of whom have gone ahead to become captain of industries, accomplished public servants, leaders of thoughts, among others.

“Without equivocation, I owe you a heap of gratitude for my political debut and rising political profile as a public office holder. The wholesome political orientation and tutelage that you have invested in me has helped me achieve tremendously well in the course of my stewardship to the good people of Ondo East and West federal constituency.

“To set the record straight, my foray into active politics that began with my appointment as Ondo West Local Government caretaker chairman was at your instance.

“This platform allowed me to gain insight into the workings of government, the intricacies of politics and political participation and also allowed me to interface with the people, and also play my part for the betterment of our community.

“In the spirit of the celebration of your birth anniversary, on behalf of my beautiful wife and I, and alongside my teeming supporters, I wish you a resounding happy birthday and a life of continued impact like you have always been known for.