President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan has said he received with much sadness and a feeling of great national loss, news of the passing away of eminent banker and former Minister of Finance, Oba Oladele Olashore of Iloko-Ijesha. President Jonathan in a statement by Reuben Abati said he joins Oba Olashore’s family, the people of Iloko-Ijesha and Osun State, as well as his many friends and associates, across Nigeria and beyond, in mourning the late traditional ruler, who was one of the most prominent pillars of the banking profession in the country for many years.
The President notes that although Oba Olashore’s contributions to the development of Nigeria’s banking sector and his service as Minister of Finance had already assured him a place in national history, he will alsobe remembered for elevating the profile of his once humble community of Iloko-Ijesha through immense personal effort and selfless service.
He urged Oba Olashore’s family, friends and the many young professionals across the country, who he continued to mentor even in retirement, to be comforted by the knowledge that in passing on, the late traditional ruler has left behind an indelible legacy of great achievements in banking, education, philanthropy and community service.
The President notes particularly that the Olashore International School which Oba Olashore established in Iloko-Ijesha and nurtured into one of the leading private educational institutions in Nigeria will stand as an eternal testimony to his belief that only a properly educated populace can guarantee sustainable national growth and development. President Jonathan prays that God Almighty will grant Oba Olashore’s soul peaceful repose.
