President Muhammadu Buhari has sent a congratulatory message to Professor Layi Ogunkoya on his 85th birthday, on November 7, 2019.
The President commended him for a life dedicated to the search and promotion of knowledge, the advancement of human skills, and contribution to national development.
In a statement released by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina, the Nigerian leader felicitated with the scholar, who identified his strength early in research, turning a Professor in 1979, spending more than 35 years in the service of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, and working as Interim Vice Chancellor of Olabisi Onabanjo University, where he restored normalcy to the institution.
The President urged Professor Ogunkoya to take pride in the wisdom he has imparted to many over the years, especially in his field of Chemistry, the immeasurable, multiplier effect it has had on the nation and the world, affirming that the foundation of every society is laid on dedicated scholars like the former Vice-Chancellor.
President Buhari salutes Professor Ogunkoya for setting up a foundation that would further strengthen and propagate his philosophy of building society through good and quality education.
The President prays that the Almighty God will bless the renowned scholar with longer life, and sustain his fountain of wisdom to keep inspiring upcoming students and researchers.