Reverend Olumayokun Olawoye, the founder of Faith Bible Church in Ibadan, has encouraged Nigerians to maintain hope in the country despite the temporary challenges it faces.
He said that Nigerians would soon witness the desired change if the current administration remained consistent in implementing their programmes and policies.
Olawoye, in an interview with newsmen on Sunday during the occasion of his 80th birthday in Ibadan, urged Nigerians to remain hopeful, emphasising that greatness does not come easily.
While acknowledging that the country still has progress to make in terms of development and governance, he suggested that if the government utilizes the funds saved from the removal of subsidies to develop the country’s economy, Nigerians will soon experience positive changes.
“Despite the turbulent times that Nigeria as a nation is going through, there is still hope for the country.
“Nigeria has gone through its challenging times in history, what remains is for the new administration to turn the challenges into steppingstone to greatness, “he said.
Olawoye urged Nigerian youths not to rush into achieving success in life through illicit means such as drugs and other negative activities.
He emphasised the importance of patriotism in individuals’ hopes and aspirations, adding that reaching the age of 80 was a result of God’s grace and mercy.
Prof. Janice Olawoye, the wife of the celebrant, described her husband as a compassionate and gentle man who values people and relationships.
She expressed gratitude for the restoration of the celebrant’s good health after some health challenges.
Also, Prof. Philip Abiodun, former Vice-Chancellor of Adekunle Ajasin University in Ondo State, spoke about the celebrant, highlighting his reliability and trustworthiness.
Abiodun mentioned that he had been a close friend of Olawoye for over 75 years, having grown up together in Ondo State and attended the same primary school.
“When I came back to Nigeria in 1982, he was one of those who made me to settle down because he was one of the friends I could relate to, “he said.
He credited Olawoye as one of the friends who helped him settle down when he returned to Nigeria in 1982.
The 80th birthday celebration included a thanksgiving service at Faith Bible Church in Iyana-Olopa, Akobo, Ibadan.
