Nigeria is in mourning following the passing of Arole Ezekiel Iyiola Omisore, a distinguished Elder of the Yoruba Tennis Club and past President of the Nigerian Institute of Structural Engineers. Omisore, who was 98, passed away in his home on Friday, leaving behind a legacy of dutifulness, courage, and inspiration.
President Muhammadu Buhari has expressed his condolences to Omisore’s family, friends, and associates, describing him as a humble and warm person who remained an inspiration to many, even in his nineties. The President also noted the significant contributions Omisore made to the development of the country as the first Nigerian Structural Engineer employed by the then Government of Western Region, Ministry of Works. After leaving the ministry, he went on to establish the Engineering section of Design Group as an Associate Partner.
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In a statement issued by Femi Adesina, a Special Adviser to the President, Buhari urged Omisore’s family and friends to continue the good work he had started and to emulate his life of service to others. The President referred to Omisore as the “Gbobaniyi” of Ile-Ife, the “Alatunse” of Cathedral Church Of the Anglican, Ile-Ife, and Asiwaju Okunrin of the Christian Association of Nigeria.
Omisore’s contributions to Nigeria were not limited to his work as a structural engineer. He was also a respected community leader, serving as the President of the Yoruba Tennis Club and playing a pivotal role in the development of the club. He was known for his dedication to promoting sports and recreation, particularly tennis, which he believed could bring people together.
Omisore’s passing has been met with an outpouring of grief and tributes from across Nigeria. Many have hailed him as a true Nigerian patriot who served his country with distinction, while others have remembered him as a kind and generous man who was always ready to help those in need.
Speaking about Omisore’s passing, the Chairman of the Nigerian Institute of Structural Engineers, Dr. Ore Falomo, described him as a mentor and a father figure to many. Falomo noted that Omisore’s contributions to the field of structural engineering had been invaluable and that his passing had left a significant void in the profession.
Similarly, the President of the Yoruba Tennis Club, Prof. Adetokunbo Lucas, paid tribute to Omisore’s commitment to the club, describing him as a driving force behind its success. Lucas noted that Omisore had worked tirelessly to promote the sport of tennis in Nigeria and had helped to bring the Yoruba Tennis Club to national prominence.
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Omisore’s passing is a significant loss to Nigeria, and his contributions to the country will be remembered for generations to come. As the country mourns his passing, many are reflecting on his life and legacy, and the lessons that can be learned from his example. In a time when Nigeria faces many challenges, Omisore’s life serves as a reminder of the importance of service to others and the role that individuals can play in shaping the future of their country.
