Aare Rasaq Akanni Okoya is an embodiment of industry. An astute businessman, an entrepreneur par excellence. A legendary philanthropist. I should know because we have been friends for over sixty years through he is a Muslim, and I am a Christian. We do discuss our faith from time to time, but we do not allow religious differences to affect our friendship.
Aare Rasaq Akanni Okoya is not just a friend. We have come a long way together. He is indeed a brother, for blood brothers cannot be any closer than our relationship. My dear Aare Rasaq Akanni Okoya has been a close, trusted confidant in many areas of our lives. We have done many things together at home and abroad and shared many of life’s problems. By the special grace of God, we found solutions to them.
We have both tried to industrialise the country, we started as importers and exporters and then diverted into the industry. Even at that, we do everything possible to employ Nigerians to manage our industries, as we firmly believe in our nations. Over the years, we have discussed and crunched critically serious business ideas together. There is not a better person to keep company with. Such an amiable human being. Despite how close we are, many times we have different ideas and opinions, we quarrel, shout at each other, and thereafter we resolve our differences amicably.
Since I cannot give you anything except the very truth and best at this time. Rasaq Akanni, I went to appreciate you for the over 60 years we have shared together in joy and tears. I sincerely appreciate your large and generous heart, patience with me, and always extending me due respect. You are indeed a special gift to Nigeria from the creator God, in fact, a special person like you deserves the best that each day can bring. The number of years spent on earth does not matter as much as the good works performed. Your excellent works to humanity can never be forgotten. You are synonymous with philanthropy. Beneficiaries of your largesse can never forget you. Their prayers will not be in vain by God’s Grace and in His abundant mercies. God bless the memory of our beloved matriarch, your mother who bore you.
With a heart full of joy for this misetone, accept every joy and congratulations from myself and your numerous well wishers my dear brother and friend. Hearty congratulations on your most auspicious 80th birthday celebration. May our good God almighty grant you many more years in good health and abundant prosperity to serve the Lord and humanity.
Happy birthday my brilliant friend and fabulous brother.
Oju a ma rodun ooo. Aye la jogun ore. Oluwa yio tu bo l ora emi re.
With esteemed regards and sincere affection.
Prince (Dr.) Samuel Adedoyin
