A former Governor of old Oyo State, Dr Omololu Olunloyo, has described the late ex-Chairman, Nigerian Water Resources Development Company, Pa 'Layi Ogunsola, as a great motivator.
Speaking during a funeral service held for the late Ogunsola at the Church of Nigeria Anglican Communion, Ibadan-South Diocese, Mapo, Ibadan, on Friday, Olunloyo said the 83-year-old deceased inspired people to greatness.
He said, "Ogunsola was my senior in Government College, Ibadan, which I entered on January 23, 1948, with Lekan Are and other pupils. He was in Form Six when we were in Form One and he struck us as a very brilliant and confident senior.
"The confidence he built in us took us round the world. With such bravery, we knew that in the whole world, there was nothing any student could attain that we could not attain.
"Whatever he said came to pass. He would tell us before an examination that we were the best of our generation, not just in Nigeria but all over the world.
"He told us that if there was any question that we could not answer, no pupil could answer it anywhere in the world. He had a way of giving you confidence before a major task."
Dignitaries present at the ceremony included Ekiti State Governor, Dr Kayode Fayemi, Wife of Kwara State Governor, Mrs Omolewa Ahmed and a former Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs in former western region, Chief Areoye Oyebola, among others.
Delivering a sermon, Rev. E. R. Oludipe, said Ogunsola made "fresh commitment to God long before his final call to glory."
While describing her father as a rare individual who lived a selfless life, his daughter, Ayo Obe, said Ogunsola encouraged her to succeed in life.
She said, "He was always visiting me in England when I was studying there. He would tell me that whatever happened abroad, I must see myself as a Nigerian.
"He did not tell me to study law but because I wanted to emulate him, I chose to study law. He was the source of my strength and inspiration."
Son of the deceased, Layi, said his father was the source of his strength when he was injured in a serious accident.
He said, "He taught me how to be strong and be as independent as possible. One of the best things I remember is seeing him after my accident. Seeing him helped my recovery. I admire his strength and dignity."
During the wake at Akinfenwa Hall, St Mary's Anglican Church, Oluyole Estate, retired Bishop Rufus Okeremi described Ogunsola as a man who dedicated his life to helping others and serving God.
He urged the children of the deceased to emulate their late father by committing their lives to God.
