It is no longer news that on December 17th, 2022, the entire Ipari-Oke, an ancient town in Ijebu, Ogun state will be celebrating big as one of their illustrious sons who is a renowned educator, Pa James Olusegun Olubanwo will celebrate his 75th birthday.
The ceremony which will be held in Ipari-Oke Town promises to be glamorous and one of a kind. Notable among the activities marking the day is the Thanksgiving Service at St. Peter’s African Church, Ipari Oke, after which the reception party holds at Event Place both in Ipari-Oke Town. Dignitaries from all works of life are expected to grace the occasion.
As preparation for the celebration of the man of the moment is in top gear and gradually gathering momentum, his son, Dr. Taiwo Olubanwo, a medical professional, public health expert, serial entrepreneur, iconic businessman, captain of many industries and great philanthropist takes his time to shower encomium on his loving father. According to Dr. Taiwo the Chairman and CEO of BanwOil Petroleum LTD who wrote “The Tribute of a Renowned Educator, Pa. James O. Olubanwo”, he writes, “My Dad is my mentor as my feat today is traceable to his seasonal words of wisdom”. He would say to me, be determined and be focused, take things easy, as ‘slow and steady win the race’. His favourite adage is ‘Rome wasn’t built in a day’’.
“Dad, on behalf of your children, grandchildren, family and friends, we celebrate you at 75 and always with the very best wishes, long life and prosperity”, says Dr. Olubanwo
For those who long to know more about the renowned and iconic educator, Pa James Olusegun Olubanwo, CityPeople reveals some facts about him, his background and his upbringing.
Read and Enjoy!
Bio:
Pa James Olusegun Olubanwo was born on November 16th, 1947, to Christian and Ijebu business magnate parents. His father late Chief Hector Okebukola Olubanwo is a well-known Justice of Peace, specifically specializing in Cattle Business and the first Lay Reader of St. Peter’s African Church, Ipari Oke Parish. So, it is safe to call him a ‘Herdsman’. His mother, the late Chief Paulina Okubanke Olubanwo, is the first Iya Ijo of St. Peter’s African Church, Ipari-Oke and an industrious, brilliant and highly influential woman of her time. Late Chief (Mrs) P.O. Olubanwo specialized in pottery and farming business in Ijebu Land. Her exceptional brilliance makes her wade many influences that benefit humanity.
Education:
James completes most of his education, elementary, high school and teacher training college in the Ijebu area of Ogun State, Nigeria. James would later earn a diploma in education from the University of Ibadan.
Marriage Life:
In the late 60s, James married her first wife Late Mrs. Olufunlayo Amope Olubanwo who became a Chief Matron at a young age. Olufunlayo passed on in the mid-70s. In the mid-70s James would later marry his second wife Madam Felicia Adekiite Olubanwo who passed on in 2012. Felicia was highly disciplined with an exceptional passion for helping others. Felicia is known for her philanthropic gesture, prudence and love for education. Felicia would later retire as a Chief Education Officer and Head of School. James’ third relationship was in the early 80s but divorced in the mid-80s.
Educator par excellence;
Due to James’ extraordinary brilliance and exceptional leadership skills, he was promoted to head a school within a few weeks of classroom experience in Ogun State. He was later transferred to Lagos State where he equally headed many schools. Everywhere he goes, he would always in charge as a leader in many educational facilities. Pa Olubanwo would later retire as an astute educationist after about 35 years in service.
Business Acumen:
Pa James Olubanwo is highly organized and a brilliant planner who likes investment. James is an industrious, versatile and business-oriented individual. He invested in the transportation business, real estate business and event/rental business apart from being a Renowned Educator.
What James is known for:
Pa. James Olubanwo is known for his simplicity and self-sufficiency. His humility is at par as he relates with all age groups. He socializes with everyone irrespective of their social status. Pa James Olubanwo is a disciplinarian who is full of wisdom and a remarkable wealth of knowledge.
What can we say of a man who seldom borrows money or if at all insignificant? “I can tell you that in all my achievements, I did not borrow money”, says James. I tell you, his wisdom is more than what money can buy. “Between his words of wisdom and money – I will choose wisdom and let go of Money as his wise words are invaluable”, Says Dr. Taiwo Olubanwo.
Many would visit James to seek advice and words of wisdom. Pa James Olubanwo is a principled and future-oriented individual known to many as Baba Ijebu whilst some fondly call him Baba Teacher. Pa James Olubanwo is blessed with now grown-up kids. His love for education and versatility is evident in the successes recorded so far in his children. To his and his wife’s credit – they raised men and women who would later become educators, Engineer, Medical professional and Businessman, Biochemist, Accountant, business administrator and IT personnel.
This piece is sponsored by BanwOil Petroleum LTD.
Happy Birthday, Dad!
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