President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has charged traditional rulers across the country to guide their subjects with wisdom, promote dialogue, discourage violence and foster unity among diverse communities amid growing security and social cohesion challenges.
Tinubu, who was represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, gave the charge during the launching of the autobiography of the Oluabo of Ilu-Abo, Oba Olu Falae, titled: “The Triumph of Grace” held at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA) Victoria Island, Lagos.
The President stressed that at a critical time in the nation’s history, the role of traditional rulers has become more significant, noting that peace and security are not the sole responsibility of government but a collective duty requiring collaboration at all levels.
Tinubu described Falae as a distinguished statesman, revered monarch and symbol of integrity and service, adding that Oba Falae’s record in public office reflected dedication, intellectual depth and commitment to national development.
The host of the occasion, Ondo State Governor, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, called for a return to value-driven leadership in Nigeria, using the life of Oba Olu Falae as a compelling example of integrity, resilience and service.
The Governor stressed the need for leaders to embrace discipline, honour and accountability in both public and private life.
Describing the occasion as intellectually significant, Governor Aiyedatiwa said the gathering went beyond celebration, serving as a platform to reflect on leadership values and national direction.
According to him, the autobiography presents not just a personal story but a guide for navigating leadership challenges, insisting that integrity remains the most enduring currency for any leader.
He noted that the life of the former Secretary to the Government of the Federation offers practical lessons for younger generations, particularly in an era marked by shifting values and uncertainty.
“Diligence is not negotiable, adversity is not final, and integrity remains the most enduring currency,” the Governor said.
Governor Aiyedatiwa emphasised that true greatness is defined by the ability to endure trials and make morally sound decisions, adding that leadership demands courage, wisdom and a strong sense of purpose.
He also reflected on Nigeria’s socio-economic evolution, noting that policy decisions, including past austerity measures, should be understood within the context of changing realities rather than judged in isolation.
The Governor further described Falae as a symbol of disciplined service whose contributions as a top civil servant, minister and presidential candidate continue to resonate across generations.
He commended the scholarly review of the book by former Ondo State governor, Dr. Olusegun Mimiko, noting that such intellectual contributions deepen public appreciation of Nigeria’s historical and political trajectory.
Governor Aiyedatiwa added that the theme of the autobiography highlights the role of divine grace in human endeavours, stressing that while effort and struggle are inevitable, purpose is ultimately shaped by a higher orchestration.
He urged Nigerians, especially emerging leaders, to draw inspiration from Falae’s life, describing the autobiography as a vital resource for understanding leadership, service and national development.
The Governor congratulated the royal father on the publication, describing it as a lasting contribution to Nigeria’s moral and historical consciousness.
The chief launcher, Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, represented by his deputy, Barr Bayo Lawal, described the celebrant as an enigma and a visionary statesman.
In his book review, former Ondo State Governor, Mimiko, lauded Oba Olu Falae, describing the occasion as a celebration of diligence, integrity and commitment to public service.
According to Mimiko, the book’s title captures Falae’s deep conviction in divine guidance.
“There is no coincidence with the God that he serves. He serves the God of precision,” he said, noting that faith is a central pillar of Falae’s life and work.
In his vote of thanks, Oba Olu Falae expressed deep gratitude at the launch of his autobiography, The Way, the Triumph of Grace.
Oba Falae highlighted three moments that defined his life under grace. At birth, mistakenly thought stillborn, a visiting woman’s intervention saved him from premature burial. In 1969, while serving with Nigeria’s UN delegation in New York, he narrowly escaped death when a last-minute change of flights spared him from a fatal crash in London. The third instance occurred on his seventy-seventh birthday, when kidnappers seized him on his farm but tended to his wounds and protected him from the rain, revealing mercy even in danger.
“These experiences show grace at work,” he said, reflecting on his life. The monarch also recounted his career milestones, including his appointment as managing director of Nigeria Merchant Bank, which he described as a “political miracle.”
Dignitaries in attendance included wife of the celebrant, Racheal Falae; former Secretary to the Government of the Federation and former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Babagana Kingibe; former Governor of Ekiti State, De. Kayode Fayemi; former Military Governor of Ondo State, Bode George; former Minister of State for Defence (Navy), Dr. Olu Agunloye; former Deputy Governor of Osun State, Titi Tomori-Ponle; the Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi; Chairman of the Nigerian Ports Authority, Senator Dayo Adeyeye; Chairman of Elizade Motors and University, Chief Ade Ojo; Executive Director of Corporate Services, NDDC, Hon. Ifedayo Abegunde; as well as members of Afenifere, among others.