Ogunsan At 50: Leadership, Legacy Comes to Focus • as Sanwo-Olu, IGP Disu, Adebutu, Alebiosu, Others Honor LSSTF Boss, Launch 'The Civilian General' Book

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Ogunsan At 50: Leadership, Legacy Comes to Focus • as Sanwo-Olu, IGP Disu, Adebutu, Alebiosu, Others Honor LSSTF Boss, Launch ‘The Civilian General’ Book

By Oki O. Samson, Trek Africa Newspaper

L-R: Executive Governor, Lagos State, Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Daughter of the Celebrant, Mercy Ogunsan; Celebrant/Executive Secretary/CEO, Lagos State Security Trust Fund, LSSTF, Dr. Ayodele Ogunsan; his Wife/Managing Director, Executive Hotel and Suites, Dr. Ajoke Ogunsan; her Daughters, Oluwaseun Ogunsan and Joy Ogunsan during the launch of the book; Dr. Ayodele Ogunsan: ‘The Civilian General’ and 50th Birthday Celebration of LSSTF’s CEO Dr Ogunsan at the Civic Center, V/I, Lagos…

The enduring test of leadership in a country where public leadership is often measured by the offices people occupy is not the power that they wield but what change they implement, the people they influence and the legacy that remains after the applause. Documenting such lives is therefore more than a commemorative exercise; it is an opportunity to preserve experiences, values and lessons that may inform the next generation of leaders. That national idea took centre stage at the 50th birthday celebration of Dr. Ayodele Ogunsan, Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of the Lagos State Security Trust Fund (LSSTF), where the launch of ‘Dr. Ayodele Ogunsan: The Civilian General – The Man, His Wits, Passion, Influence’ became a major feature of the occasion.

L-R: Executive Governor, Lagos State, Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Celebrant/Executive Secretary/CEO, Lagos State Security Trust Fund, LSSTF, Dr. Ayodele Ogunsan and his Wife/Managing Director, Executive Hotel and Suites, Dr. Ajoke Ogunsan during the Unveiling of the new Book titled; Dr. Ayodele Ogunsan: ‘The Civilian General’ and 50th Birthday Celebration of LSSTF’s CEO, Dr Ogunsan held at the Civic Center, V/I, Lagos.

The book jointly unveiled by Chief Ajibola Bankole Adebutu MON, CEO of JB Farms and the Inspector General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu brought a literary focus to a golden jubilee marked by worship, distinguished guests and tributes to Ogunsan’s leadership. Its launch before political leaders, security chiefs, business executives, traditional rulers and religious leaders gave the publication an audience drawn from many of the constituencies represented in Ogunsan’s public life.

During the event, dignitaries presented tributes about the LSSTF CEO, Dr. Ogunsan which provided a picture of leadership that combines institutional coordination with attention to people and practical outcomes.

L-R: Executive Director, Zenith Bank Plc, Mr. Akin Ogunranti; Inspector General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu; APC Deputy Governorship Candidate, Lagos State, Princess Damilola Sonayon James; Wife of the Celebrant/Managing Director, Executive Hotel and Suites, Dr. Ajoke Ogunsan; Executive Secretary/CEO, Lagos State Security Trust Fund, LSSTF, Dr. Ayodele Ogunsan and CEO, CEO/MD, JB Farms Ltd, Mr. Ajibola Bankole Adebutu, MON during the launch of the new book; Dr. Ayodele Ogunsan: ‘The Civilian General’ and 50th Birthday Celebration of LSSTF’s CEO Dr Ogunsan at the Civic Center, V/I, Lagos.

Gov. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu: ‘A quiet man with the roar of a dependable leader’

Gov. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu’s testimony was among the most revealing of the occasion. Reflecting on a relationship spanning almost a decade, the governor recalled that his first impression of Ogunsan was of a quiet, humble and unassuming individual. Experience, he said, subsequently revealed a man of considerable strength, compassion and leadership capacity.

CEO JB Farms Limited, Mr. Ajibola Bankole Adebutu MON and Inspector General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu jointly unveiled Dr. Ayodele Ogunsan’s new Book titled: Dr. Ayodele Ogunsan: ‘The Civilian General’: …The Man, His Wits, Passion and Influence during the 50th Birthday Celebration of LSSTF’s CEO held at The Civic Center, Victoria Island Lagos.

“Ogunsan is an Omoluabi personified. He is a committed Lagosian. Ayo, my dear aburo, has worked and touched lives in different ways. That’s why I’m truly proud not just to be identified with him but to wish him well,” the governor said.

He described the contrast between Ogunsan’s gentle exterior and inner resolve, saying: “He will appear to you as a gentle dove, which he actually is, but inside him is the full roar of a dependable man who is strong in the Lord.”

Sanwo-Olu also praised his dedication, loyalty and precision in executing assignments, describing him as someone whose work could be trusted without constant supervision. “If I give a task, I can go to bed,” he said, explaining that Ogunsan not only completes assignments but provides feedback and anticipates issues that might otherwise be overlooked.

The arrival of the Ogunsans to the 50th Birthday celebrations held at The Civic Center Victoria Island Lagos.

L-R: GMD/CEO, First Bank of Nigeria, Mr. Segun Alebiosu; Wife of the Celebrant/MD, Executive Hotel and Suites, Dr. Ajoke Ogunsan; Executive Secretary/CEO, Lagos State Security Trust Fund, LSSTF, Dr. Ayodele Ogunsan and the GMD/CEO, United Bank for Africa, Mr. Oliver Alawuba during the 50th Birthday celebration of LSSTF’s CEO Dr Ogunsan.

In Yoruba cultural understanding, Omoluabi signifies exemplary character expressed through integrity, respect, discipline, humility and responsibility. The governor’s choice of description therefore framed the celebration around qualities that extend beyond office or achievement.

Deputy Governor Kadri Obafemi Hamzat Urges Continued Commitment to Security

The Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, who was represented by Mr. Moruf Akinderu Fatai conveyed birthday felicitations to Ogunsan and encouraged him to sustain his commitment to public safety. “I celebrate you, Dr. Ogunsan, on your birthday. Do continue to move in this quest to secure Nigeria,” The message highlighted the broader significance of Ogunsan’s responsibilities at the LSSTF, where support for security agencies forms part of the collective effort to protect lives and property.

L-R: Inspector General of Police, IGP Olatunji Disu; Alara of Ilara, Oba Olukayode Ogunsanwo; Celebrant/Executive Secretary/CEO, Lagos State Security Trust Fund, LSSTF, Dr. Ayodele Ogunsan and Wife of the Celebrant/MD, Executive Hotel and Suites, Dr. Ajoke Ogunsan during the 50th Birthday celebration of LSSTF’s CEO Dr Ogunsan.

IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu: Security Leadership Defined by Humility

Inspector General of Police, IGP Disu’s tribute reinforced that theme from the perspective of security administration. Noting the significant presence of security officers at the gathering, he acknowledged the institutional context of Ogunsan’s leadership at the LSSTF.

“Dr Ayo Ogunsan is a wonderful human being. I have a lot to learn from him, though I am older than him. He doesn’t mind kneeling down to solve problems. He has been able to merge all security agencies in Nigeria,” the IGP said.

His observation about Ogunsan’s willingness to humble himself to resolve problems highlighted a practical dimension of leadership: the ability to put solutions above personal pride. Disu also expressed surprise at the celebrant’s singing talent before praying for God’s continued guidance and peace in Lagos.

L-R: APC Deputy Governorship Candidate, Lagos State, Princess Damilola Senayon James; Executive Governor, Lagos State, Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Celebrant/Executive Secretary/CEO, Lagos State Security Trust Fund, LSSTF, Dr. Ayodele Ogunsan; Wife of the Celebrant/Managing Director, Executive Hotel and Suites, Dr. Ajoke Ogunsan and Alara of Ilara, Oba Olukayode Ogunsanwo during the Unveiling of the new Book titled; Dr. Ayodele Ogunsan: ‘The Civilian General’ and 50th Birthday Celebration of LSSTF’s CEO, Dr Ogunsan held at the Civic Center, V/I, Lagos.

FirstBank MD/CEO, Olusegun Alebiosu: Dr. Ayo Ogunsan is a Great Man

The Managing Director/CEO of First Bank of Nigeria PLC, Mr. Olusegun Alebiosu celebrated the LSSTF CEO, Dr. Ayo Ogunsan for amiable nature and goal-getting capacity hinting that “I have not stopped admiring him for his humility, impact, honesty. I learnefrom Dr. Ayo and I will continue to learn from him. He is a great man.”

LSSTF Leadership Commend His Collaboration and Drive

The LSSTF Board Chairman of LSSTF, Kehinde Durosinmi Etti praised Ogunsan’s depth of knowledge of security matters and the progress he had witnessed through their professional relationship.

L-R: Dr. Ajoke Ogunsan with her Husband Celebrant, Dr. Ayodele Ogunsan jointly rendering a song during the Unveiling of the new Book titled; Dr. Ayodele Ogunsan: ‘The Civilian General’ and 50th Birthday Celebration of LSSTF’s CEO, Dr Ogunsan held at the Civic Center, V/I, Lagos.

Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu giving his tribute on the celebrant, Dr. Ayodele Ogunsan at the occasion.

LSSTF Board member and Executive Director, Zenith Bank, Akin Ogunranti described him as the “indefatigable CEO,” citing his energy and frequent updates on the work being undertaken to support Lagos security.

Another LSSTF Board member and MD/CEO of the ASR Foundation, Ubon Udoh, described Ogunsan as “driven and inspirational,” praising his belief in collective effort.

Faith, Family and the Values Passed Forward

Businessman and philanthropist, Chief Olu Okeowo described Ogunsan as a distinguished gentleman who had brought Christianity into harmony with his work, family and vision. Comparing him with the biblical David, Okeowo praised the spiritual atmosphere of the Ogunsan household and the family’s collective expression of worship.

Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu taking a selfie with the Children of Dr. Ayodele Ogunsan; Mercy Ogunsan, Joy Ogunsan and Oluwaseun Ogunsan during the 50th Birthday celebration of LSSTF’s CEO Dr Ogunsan held at The Civic center Victoria Island Lagos…

Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu taking a selfie with The Ogunsan; Mercy Ogunsan, Joy Ogunsan, Oluwaseun Ogunsan, Dr. Ajoke Ogunsan and Dr. Ayodele Ogunsan during the 50th Birthday celebration of LSSTF’s CEO Dr Ogunsan held at The Civic center Victoria Island Lagos…

Chief Ajibola Adebutu, the CEO of JB Farms brought the goodwill of his father, Sir Kessington Adebukunola Adebutu, and the Adebutu family as a whole to the celebration, offering a prayer for many more years of life and accomplishment. “Doki, I bring you greetings from my dad, Kessington Adebutu. I pray for you that, as you have achieved this milestone, you will achieve 60, 70 and even more as God tarries.”

Adebutu’s prayer expressed the hope that Ogunsan’s golden jubilee would be a milestone with more years ahead to serve, build relationships and fulfil his aspirations. His reference to God’s continued grace reflected the Source and Sustainer of all good things, whom Ogunsan have trusted for five decades and counting.

L-R: APC Deputy Governorship Candidate Lagos State, Princess Damilola Senayon James; Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Dr. Ayodele Ogunsan and his Wife, Dr. Ajoke Ogunsan during the arrival of Gov. Sanwo-Olu to Dr. Ogunsan’s 50th Birthday celebration and Book Launch Titled: Dr. Ayodele Ogunsan: ‘The Civilian General’ …The Man, His Wits, Passion and Influence held at The Civic Center Victoria Island Lagos.

L-R: APC Deputy Governorship Candidate Lagos State, Princess Damilola Senayon James and the Celebrant, Dr. Ayodele Ogunsan welcoming Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu to Dr. Ogunsan’s 50th Birthday celebration and Book Launch Titled: Dr. Ayodele Ogunsan: ‘The Civilian General’ …The Man, His Wits, Passion and Influence held at The Civic Center Victoria Island Lagos.

The Commissioner for Special Duties, Lagos State, Mr. Gbenga Oyerinde celebrated the occasion as five decades of memorable experiences and expressed hope that the next chapter of Ogunsan’s life would be even more fulfilling. “We celebrate five decades of beautiful memories. May God crown your new age. May the years ahead be more beautiful than the years behind. May your life be filled with testimonies that money cannot buy.” as his prayer for testimonies that money cannot buy points to the blessings such as peace of mind, enduring relationships, sound health, and fulfilment, which cannot be acquired through professional advancement or material success.

The Alara of Ilara, Oba Olukayode Ogunsanwo, recognised Ogunsan’s diligence and continuing commitment to service. He also thanked the celebrant’s wife, Dr. Ajoke Ogunsan, for supporting the demands of public service and “keeping the home front.”

Mercy Ogunsan singing a special song during her father’s 50th birthday celebration held at The Civic Center Victoria Island Lagos.

Joy Ogunsan singing a special song during her father’s 50th birthday celebration held at The Civic Center Victoria Island Lagos.

Oluwaseun Ogunsan singing a special song during her father’s 50th birthday celebration held at The Civic Center Victoria Island Lagos.

Oba Lateef Egbeyemi, the Ologba of Ogba, offered a culturally resonant tribute, saying, “We can see the certificate of your parents in you.” The expression presented Ogunsan’s conduct as evidence of the values instilled by his upbringing. The monarch extended his commendation to the celebrant’s wife and children, praying that Ogunsan would live to witness his children’s success.

Family members echoed those themes. Abiodun Ogunsan described his brother as a leader, mentor and father figure whose life is guided by discipline and deep spirituality. Dr. Sunday Alabi, his brother-in-law, recalled recognising leadership qualities in Ogunsan as far back as 1986/87.

Dr. Ajokesings during her special music ministration at her husband’s 50th birthday celebration held at the Civic center Victoria Island Lagos.

Dr. Ajokesings with her Husband, Dr. Ayodele Ogunsan jointly rendering a special song at the occasion…

The Ogunsans: popularly known as The Musical House of Ogunsan rendering a special song at the LSSTF’s CEO, Dr Ogunsan’s 50th birthday.

Young Executive Forum, YEF rendering a special song at Dr. Ayodele Ogunsan’s 50th birthday celebration held at The Civic center Victoria Island Lagos.

Their recollections gave the celebration an intimate dimension, suggesting that the qualities praised by public figures were, in their experience, visible long before the celebrant attained his current position.

At the heart of the celebration was pure worship, high praise and thanksgiving offered for the fruitful years already lived and the years ahead of Dr. Ayodele Ogunsan, The Civilian General’ whose story the book placed on record. Authored by Mayor Oki Olatunji Samson and co-authored by Abayomi Oyelami, the book documented the personality whose engagements span business, public service, security-sector support, philanthropy and Christian faith.

Leading the pack of gladiators at the high profile colorful birthday event are the Chief of Staff to Lagos State Governor, Mr. Tayo Ayinde; Deputy Chief of Staff, Mr. Sam Egube; APC Lagos deputy Governorship candidate, Princess Damilola Senayon James; and APC Lagos campaign Director General, Senator Musiliu Obanikoro. Lagos cabinet members present include, Attorney General and Commissioner for the Ministry of Justice, Mr.
Lawal Pedro SAN; Commissioner for Information, Gbenga Omotoso, Commissioner for Trade and Investment, Mrs. Folashade Ambrose-Medebem; Commissioner for Special Duties, Gbenga Oyerinde; Special Adviser to the Governor on Tourism, Hon. Idris Aregbe; Hon. Gbenga Abiola; Hon. Seriki Muritala and others. The Chairman of the LSSTF Board, Kehinde Durosinmi Etti, DIG Agboola Oshodi Glover (retd) were also in attendance.

Business titans include the Sir Olu Okeowo, Chairman of Gibraltar Construction; Mr. Segun Alebiosu, GMD/CEO of First Bank of Nigeria, Mr. Ajibola Adebutu, CEO of JB Farms; Mr. Oliver Alawuba, GMD/CEO of United Bank for Africa UBA Plc; Mr. Akin Ogunranti, Executive Director, Zenith Bank Plc; Dr. Ubon Udoh, MD/CEO of ASR Africa Initiative, Idowu Oguntona, MD of Lagos Bus Service Ltd among others.

The Inspector General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu led senior officers of the Nigeria Police Force, including DIG Adegoke Fayoade, DIG Bode Adeleke rtd, DIG Ari Muhammed Ali rtd, DIG David Folawiyo Rtd; AIG Simeon Akpanudom, AIG Olohundare Jimoh, AIG Ronke Nurat Okunade, AIG Johnson Adenola Rtd, AIG Lanre Bankole Rtd, CP Fatai Tijani, CP Toyin Agbaminijo, CP Saadat Ismail Rtd, CP Akin Fakorede, CP Abiodun Alamutu rtd, DCP Anthony Okon Placid, DCP Bayo Sulaiman, DCP Lawal Adeshina, DCP Akinbayo Olasoji rtd, DCP Mary Ayim, ACP Veronica Ameh-Akpa, ACP Frances Oyin Adegbite, ACP Smith Adeleke, ACP Adegbite, CSP Tayo Akerele, CSP Solomon Komolafe, CSP Ayodele Elijah, CSP Shola Jejeloye, CSP Shokunbi Toyosi, and other police officers. The three military chiefs in Lagos including Commander 9 Brigade, Brig. Gen. Ayokunle Owolabi; Commander of NAF 651 BSG, Air Commodore MA Imam; and Commander of NNS Beecroft, Commodore Aiwuyor Adams Aliu were also present. Also in attendance were Gen. Olumuyiwa Okunowo and Rear Admiral Olugbenga Oladipo, the Commander of Operation Delta Safe.

Other security agencies include the Commander, NDLEA Lagos Strategic Command, ACGN Wali Liman Abubakar, NSCDC Lagos Commandant, Adedotun Keshinro; Nigeria
Immigration Service Lagos Comptroller Chris Olu Onajinrin, the FRSC Lagos Sector Commander, Kehinde Hamzat; LNSA General Manager, Prince Dr. Ifalade Oyekan; Commandant of Man ‘O’ War, Lagos State, MC Ayodele Ajayi and Commander, Vigilante Group of Nigeria, VGN Lagos State, Sesan Oguntunde.

The traditional leaders were led by the Ooni of Ife and Arole Oodua, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi as represented by his wife; the Alara of Ilara, Oba Olufolarin Ogunsanwo; the Ologba of Ogba, Oba Lateef Egbeyemi and wife, Olori Kadijat Egbeyemi; Onikoyi of Ikoyi, Oba Ibikunle Fafunwa, and several white cap chiefs of Lagos.

The church was well represented by Christian ministers like Pst. Yemi Akinwande, Deeper Life Church UK who took the brief exhortations, Pst. Sehindemi Johnson, Prof. Albert Oikelome, Pst. Tope Ojemen, Pastor Olaomo, Pastor Olanipekun, and many others.