Thank you for honouring our father

By Ogundeji Elebuibon

With a heart overflowing with gratitude and deep joy, I stand before you today to sincerely appreciate each and every one of you gathered here to honor our father,
a man who has given so much of himself to others while asking for so little in return.

Today is not just a ceremony, it is a moment of grace, a moment of reflection, a moment of honour. And, first, I return all glory to Almighty God, the giver of life, the sustainer of all things, who, in His infinite mercy, made this day possible. Without Him none of us would be here.

I would like to express my profound appreciation to Obafemi Awolowo University, under the distinguished leadership of the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Adebayo Simeon Bamire.

My heartfelt gratitude also goes to the Institute of Cultural Studies led by Professor Gbenga Fasiku, the Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Professor Olusegun Oladosu, the Director of the Institute, and to every member of the Institute for deeming it worthy to honor our father in such a remarkable way.

I am deeply honoured and truly humbled
by the presence of our revered royal fathers.

My profound gratitude goes to His Imperial Majesty, Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, the Ooni of Ife, and his gracious queen, Olori Afolashade for their royal presence and blessings.

I also specially appreciate my own father Kabiyesi Adekunle Oyelude, the Olowu of Kuta Kingdom. And, I recognize with great respect, Oba Oludo, Oba Olufon, and all esteemed Kabiyesis present here today.

Your presence is not ordinary. It is an honour words can hardly capture. Baba Araba Aworeni aragba agbaye mo dupe o
Gbogbo ijo awo From idin ileke temple Osogbo mo dupe o.

To everyone gathered here today, your love, your support, your presence; they speak louder than any words I could ever say. You have not just come to celebrate, you have come to honour a life, a life of sacrifice, a life of kindness, a life of unwavering service to humanity.

As you have all gathered to honour my beloved father, Ayinde. I pray that Almighty God will, in return honour you, uplift you
and bless you abundantly beyond your expectations.

From the very depth of my heart, thank you. Thank you for your love. Thank you for your presence. Thank you for honouring our father. May God bless you richly.