Tributes
I will miss you dearly
I will miss you dearly sir.
We commiserate with the wife and children, we commiserate with the Owoso family and we commiserate with Egboro Klub of Ijebu-Jesa.
Dr Owoso was a man of few words; devoted to religion and work. We thank the Almighty for his selflessness and excellent long service to CAPA and TVET. My condolences to the family, friends and the people of Nigeria. May God grant them solace in this time
Dear Dad, it is with a heavy heart that I pen down this, to me I have not only lost My Friend & Friend to my father, but I have also lost a Father too.
I worked with him as a Local Organising Chair for Malawi’s 2016 conference and he was a mentor and some who made the meeting to be successful despite the challenges that were there he was a man who could not easily give up even if things seemed too impossible
Dr. Owoso was as great as he was humble. He had a clear vision of where he wanted CAPA and TVET to go. I was privileged to interact with him when we wrote the 2018-23 CAPA strategic plan. The idea of ATUPA came around that time at Qaribu Hotel in Nairobi, Kenya
Your patience, humility, servanthood and professionalism has left and indelible mark on the heart of TEVET in Zambia. Go well champion of TEVET.
Dr Owoso, gone too soon. You were a father, an uncle, a brother and a friend to everyone. Africa has lost an icon of great talent. Your foot prints of a very humble and gentle person will ever remain in our hearts. You did your best raising the CAPA -ATUPA
I’ve never worked with a finer gentleman than you, Bunmi. You made me wish I could stay at CAPA forever. You were/are a builder. Diplomatic, Charismatic, Humble. Rest in Peace, Buddy.
Dr Olubunmi OWOSO, a brother and friend, I vividly remember our Journey of over two decades has been brought into a halt in a jiffy. How can I remember now of this trustworthy man who was full of life, charming, always smiling, adequate, eloquent, witty,
Dr. Owoso was a man of noble qualities. We all learned many things from him. He will be remembered forever
A humble man who called me ^my Director and I called him my SG. DEATH is cruel but it is good to be remembered by Soo many
A pride of Africa, a genius, astute administrator, charismatic leader, full of intellect, innovator, molder of achievers, pacesetter, my mentor, father of technical education, Dr. Olubunmi Owoso, rest in the bosom of our dear Lord Jesus Christ.
A pillar of strength we have lost. I personally will continue with your legacy of hard work
By the time I met
Between 2012 & 2017, our relationship was that of secretary-general/Rector @ CAPA. An encounter that brought us closer was when I was displeased with the accommodation that was arranged for me by the consultant and he personally offered me a room in his suite.
It was after we have both left CAPA that we met on ecosa platform.
Dr Olubunmi Owoso is fine gentleman always ready to be of assistance to whoever comes his way.
May his soul rest in perfect peace.
Dr Augustus Oluyemi Oke.
Former Rector & Old Student
Egbado College (66-70 set)
TRIBUTE TO A SERVANT-LEADERAnd they
And they do not know what tomorrow is! What are our lives except a vapour that appears for a little while and vanishes and passes away?
Our own father and brother, Dr. Olubunmi Owoso was indeed a great man! He was a rare gem, an influential man, a benefactor to many. He was a family man and an administrator per excellence!
Olubunmi Owoso was not infallible, but he was a loving, fine, gentle man. He was uncommonly human, whose humanity was not limited to his family, but extended to his friends, colleagues and the society at large.
Dr Olubunmi Owoso was loved by many who really/actually understood him and what he stood for.
I strongly believe, like what a writer said ”We all thought we knew him, but now we know that we would have liked to have known him even better and had him stay around longer.”
Olubunmi Owoso was a servant-leader who led by example, courage, enthusiasm and discipline.
My first encounter with him was in the year 2003/4 when he had to come in , used his God-given power/office to give me a space in a place.
He did everything in humility, love and sincerity of purpose.
I saw in Dr Owoso a very humble, easy going person whose actions were louder than his voices!
My family and I shall be eternally grateful to the late Dr. Olubunmi Owoso and his family.
May God Almighty continue to grant him eternal rest. Adieu dear brother, rest on till we meet on the resurrection morning to part no more.
Life is indeed a stage. Dr. Owoso has played his part and has now exited. Africa has lost an illustrious son. CAPA has lost a gem. May His gentle soul rest in perfect peace!
Was such a fine man, may he rest in peace as his works remains immortal!
I have never seen humility in a person as decreed by the departed. His zeal, dedication and commitment to TVET is unmatched and above bar. We register a big blow to the CAPA fraternity. Nonetheless, I pray that his family finds peace in their hearts
Dr. Owoso was a leader who believed in Africa’s TVET students and their potential to be job creators. We salute you, and may your legacy live on. Rest in eternal peace!
DADDY, YOU WERE A GREAT MENTOR AND SECOND FATHER TO ME; I WON’T FORGET YOUR MORAL AND FINANCIAL SUPPORTS YOU GAVE TO ME DURING MY DAYS AS A STUDENT OF YABA COLLEGE OF TECHNOLOGY YEARS BACK; I WILL FOREVER BE GRATEFUL AND FULL OF APPRECIATION
Rip,My great Uncle,you’re a more than a professor,no doubts,no apology,with your experience and length of teaching skill,sun re ooo,Omo Onijebu egboro Atiba…
Daddy Owoso was a FATHER
You were never too busy
You were loved by many because you cared and showed God’s love. I’m glad to say I experienced this days before your passing.
Memories of you are indeed blessed, you were a blessing and will always be.
An example of a believer and a father.
You’ve gone Home and we’ll all miss you.
I’ll see you again by God’s grace…
Dr Olubunmi Owoso: Love personified. Daddy you will not be forgotten in a while. Thank you for all you did for the Lokos. Good night.
Dr. Bunmi Owoso was the reason I became a YCT graduate. Thank you Sir for all you have done. May almighty God rest your beautiful soul.
Adieu my teacher, my brother and my boss. You were indeed everything to me.
Rest in perfect peace till we meet on that resurrection morning.
Daddy, May your soul continue
U gave me hope, U are always there for me, U paid the bills, U counsel me all the time. I am just a boy you redefined.
I can never forget you Daddy.
It’s very painful but God knows why.
Rest in peace.
From Ajao Afeez Adetola (Former Chief Judge, SUG,2007)
Daddy… i can never ever
Daddy beloved, you were indeed
Daddy beloved, you were indeed a gracious man…You made everyone feel warm and loved around you. We will not only celebrate you today but everytime our heart brings a memory of you. Rest well in the bossom of our Lord Jesus christ Christ Amen!
I met Daddy through his
“A good name is better
Words have never been more true for a man with a good name, who impacted lives with your calm mien, your steadfastness in all things good. We are consoled by the words of God that your days spent here with us was to show us the love of the Almighty in human form. Today, we celebrate you as you are indeed in the bosom of your maker fulfilling His word that your exit date is better. Glory be to God, peace be unto your family and His presence, comfort and peace be with the Owosos. Adieu
Dr. Owoso your passage to
Dr. Owoso your passage to eternity is a tragic loss to us your family, Ijebu-Jesa and the nation as a whole. Your work on earth said it all. May your Soul Rest in Perfect Peace.
We came to know Dr.
Rev. Prof. & Dr. Mrs. Dapo Longe
We arrived in Yabatech almost
What a great loss!.I met
I met Uncle Bunmi in Kaduna some light years ago when I went for my Youth Service.He was very instrumental to my being offered a job at the Kaduna Polytechnic as a youth corper. He was very dynamic gentle,easy going and approachable.It was always such a pleasure meeting him at family (Ogundare) functions where he would ask after the welfare of everyone.He was a dedicated family man.
Rest on Uncle.May your path be Blessed.
He will be missed!
You were an amazing uncle
You were an amazing uncle with a golden heart. We will miss you terribly and all our memories of you will never be forgotten. Rest on sir and may the Lord comfort aunty and the children. Amen .
TRIBUTE TO MY ADMIRABLE MENTOR,ADVISER
My family and I are deeply saddened by the sudden passing to glory of our very beloved daddy Olubunmi Felix Owoso on Saturday 28th June,2020 after a brief illness.This loss without doubt is painful but in every situation we give thanks to God Almighty.With the demise of our dear daddy,A GEM,FOREMOST VISIONARY LEADER AND SCHOLAR,AND AN ADMINISTRATOR PER EXCELLENCE who kept unalloyed interest in his students,staff welfare and work IS LOST.I had the privilege and honour of working closely with him and being a student of his bosom friend,Dr Philip Olumuyiwa Adegbile ( of blessed memory ) at Kaduna Polytechnic.I still remember vividly how they were there for me;caring,mentoring,encouraging and sometimes pushful to sustain my resilience and to enable me keep up the fighting spirit that helped me thus far.Thank God for the enviable legacy you have left behind.My wife and I will continue to remember and appreciate him.
You did your best while
You did your best while here. You served your God and humanity. Your reward is eternal life in Jesus. Amen
Dr. Olubunmi Owoso. You were
Your was a life worth
Daddy was a Great Man
Dr Olubunmi Felix Owoso, was
The Great Orator makes a
The Great Orator makes a glorious exit. You left indelible marks in the sand of time. Continue to rest in the breast of the Lord. Adieu!
Daddy Yaba as we foundly
Daddy Yaba as we fondly called you, you are a man with such a big heart, your love and mentorship to us all can not be forgotten. sleep well in heart of your Lord, and the Lord will bless give the family to bear the irreparable loss.
His gentle approach to matters
His gentle approach to matters and charistimatic leadership and the likeness I have for him during and after his tenure as the Rector of Yaba College of Technology made me to name my son FELIX in memory of him. May his soul rest in peace.
Dr. Felix Olubunmi Owoso was
I have heard so much
MY RECTOR DR. F. OLUBUNMI
MY RECTOR DR. F. OLUBUNMI OWOSO,. We ended up as brother and sister. Rest in perfect peace. May the Lord comfort your wife, children and all connected to you.
This heartfelt tribute is on
May the soul of our
May the soul of our erudite scholar, former Rector, mentor and friend, Dr Felix Olubunmi Owoso rest in perfect peace. May light perpetual shine upon him and may Holy spirit comfort his widow, children, grandchildren and the entire family in Jesus name. Amen. Adieu oga.
TRIBUTE TO DR OLUBUNMI OWOSO.Dr
Dr Olubunmi Owoso was a great man. He had a gift that many people do not have and that is” building relationships”. I call it a gift because many people do not find it easy to build a good relationship either in marriage, at community levels, Church level and even in the larger society. God wants the people of the world to build relationships and that was why it was marriage institution that He first established. The first miracle of Jesus Christ too was at a wedding ceremony at Cana of Galilee. All these are to emphasize the importance of relationship among men and women of this fallen world. If somebody would tell me that it would be this that would take the life of my in-law, I would have bet my life that it can never happen. This man is so conscious of his health to the extent that he buys fresh oven baked bread from bakeries directly. One day he went as usual to a bakery to make his favorite selection and the bakery attendant who wanted to put the bread in a nylon blew air into the nylon to open, my in-law left the bakery without any bread. God Knows why he has called Dr. Owoso to Himself so early according to my human thinking. However the Bible says that ” The secret things belong unto the Lord our God; but those things which are revealed belong unto us and to our children for ever that we may do all the words of the law”(Deut.29:29). As a child of God I believe that our brother has accomplished his mission on this planet earth and that was why he was called to eternal rest. My prayer is that we shall all meet in the kingdom that our Lord Jesus has gone to prepare for us. Rest in the bossom of the Lord.
Mofoluwake and Babatunji Oluwatominiyi.
TRIBUTE TO DR FELIX OLUBUNMI
Dr Felix Olubunmi Owoso which I fondly called bros was a very caring, very calm, warm and quite understanding personality. He was always ready and willing to render assistance at even a very short notice. During his life time he had assisted in providing admission, employment and Support in various forms to many people that came his way.
He took delight in relating with everyone he came across either old or young. And Dr Owoso was a very likeable personality. Some years back he shared with my cousin Arc Titus Ajumobi about his vision for Ijebu jesa community concerning urban renewal programme. He structured a meeting for the three of us to meet and bounce ideas on his vision unfortunately the meeting could not hold because he was always travelling internationally by virtue of his official assignment. I can attest to the fact that he was ready and willing to support any programme and participate actively on anything that involved ijebu- jesa community, and her development.
We will miss him and his contributions in Egboro klub of Ijebu-jesa (his primary Klub) in particular and Ijebu-jesa community as a whole.
I pray that God will grant ALL of us the fortitude to bear this huge loss. Amen.
Engr. Olugbemiga Abudiore
Global President
Ijebu jesa Unions Conference (IJUC)
You are like a river
Like a butterfly, colourful, all seeing but noiseless. Fluttering from one plant to another, so you were in the lives that you touched. Deliberately impactful.
You brightened, you glowed, you followed your course. Welcoming, simple, quietly exuding brilliance, few words delivered like an archer hitting the bull’s eye.
Like a butterfly, the wings flapping, he took his flight, on it went, disappearing from my sight, ascending quietly as he was in life, left with just your memory, oh like a butterfly
Uncle Bunmi has always been
Uncle Bunmi has always been there for us. From the early days in Kaduna to my formative years living with him at YabaTech. Uncle Bunmi also stood in for my Dad at the Baptism and naming of my kids. He made everyone in the family feel special. A rare breed. We will miss him greatly.
SLEEP ON, “BRODA MI”“Broda mi”.
“Broda mi”. Even though I was not legally one of the “Broda mi” clan, he officially and expressly inducted me into the clan.
Soft spoken. He loved peace and endeavoured to make peace. He was very humble and did not have airs about apologising. An arbitrator. Always willing to assist. He celebrated with us even at a short notice. An undisputed leader and sagacious in our generation, a role he played so effortlessly.
Last time we spoke, when I said I owed him a visit, he responded that I visit after the pandemic bit. I subsequently called to discuss with him, he did not pick, he did not return my call. I sent 2(two) messages, he did not reply. Most unlike him. Then the most traumatic news which I will NEVER get over.
My Mum called him “Ayinla” and he did not mind when we jokingly did the same.
I took it for granted he will always be there. His space forever vacant.
Sleep on, my big brother. God loves you more.
Tribute to Dr. Olubunmi Felix
Dr Olubunmi Owoso was my Rector when I came into Yabatech and I dare say that he is still one of the best administrators I have encountered.
He was an administrator per excellence. He was a lover of peace even though many people misunderstood him. You never know the value of what you have until you lose it. The entire Yabatech community has indeed lost a gem.
You have fought a good fight and conquered. Now, continue to rest in the bosom of our Lord Jesus Christ till we meet to part no more. Adieu my great Rector. May your soul rest in perfect peace. Amen.
The Rev. Dr. Mercy Adenike Ogunbisi
Department of Chemical Sciences,
Yaba College of Technology
My Dearest First Cousin( However
Are you really gone?? A part of me is in denial as legends don’t depart. Surely, you will live forever in our hearts.
You came, you saw, and you conquered.
Once again, the family tree is broken, will there ever be a mending?Leaving us a shoe too big for anyone to fill- the head of our home. Peaceful, humble and easy going, always seeking perfection in all things. I am extremely proud of you and your accomplishments.
Even after life is gone, in our hearts your love remains on ,Even after you have left our sight, in our thoughts your light shines bright, Even after you are gone, in our memories you live forever.
Adieu, Rest in the bosom of your maker .
Bukola ifaturoti.
EGBORO BENEVOLENCE FOOD BANK :
It was with heavy hearts that we received the sad news of the demise of our brother, uncle and the worthy son of Egboro land, Dr. Olubunmi Felix Owoso, which occurred early on Sunday morning , 28th June, 2020, after a brief illness.
A devout Christian, Bunmi was born on October 23 , 1949, to the families of Owoso and Kuponiyi (Ogboni Ajigiteri family ruling house of Ijebu-Jesa). He grew up in Ilorin , Kwara State. He attended Ogbomoso Grammar School and the University of Ibadan. He studied abroad for his post graduate education. Bunmi began his teaching career at the Kaduna Polytechnic and was later appointed as Rector, Yaba College of Technology Lagos from 2001-2009. He was the immediate past Secretary General of Commonwealth Association of Technical Universities and Polytechnics (CAPA) from March 2012 – December 2018. He was also a strong financial member of our humanitarian project; Egboro Benevolence Food Bank. In fact, he was one of the first set of people who subscribed to the food bank.
A soft spoken, always smiling Bunmi was a well known educationist, an internationally renowned Food Technologist. His intellectual works and publications could be found in many accredited books all over the World. This distinguished him as a genius both within the country and at international fora.
Bunmi was indeed a good ambassador of Egboro Land both here in Nigeria and in the diaspora. We will definitely miss this genius, patriot, philanthropist and accomplisher in EGBORO Land.
We sincerely commiserate with the wife, children and the entire families of OWOSO and Kuponiyi of Ijebu Jesa. May God grant all his survivors the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.
May his gentle soul, through the mercy of God and merits of Christ rest in perfect peace. (Amen).
Sunre o, Omo Onijebu Egboro A Sure Fase Banu.
The last time I spoke
Dr. Owoso was a kind-hearted man, a man of peace, always ready to support in any way he could. I can’t forget how he traveled all the way to my village in Delta state with his friend, Prof. Ilori, for my dad’s funeral in 2011 and gave a generous financial support. In 2015 he travelled from Nairobi, Kenya to also attend my husband’s funeral, with his wife. More recently, this June 2020, he was enthusiastic to be one of my references for employment.
My heart goes out to my friend, madam, the entire family and his loved ones. I pray that the Lord Almighty will comfort, console and preserve them.
Rest on in the bosom of our Lord, Dr. Olubunmi Owoso. You will be sorely missed.
We learnt with deep regret
The Bible says in Rev 21.4 – “And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away”. We are assured that Dr. Owoso has gone to rest with the Lord. May God strengthen and comfort Sister Joko and the whole family.
The Falolas
Eternal and continued Rest Oh
” There are some who bring a light so great to the world that even _after they have gone , the light remains”-Unknown
The unknown author of the above quote never knew our dear senior at college, Felix Olubunmi Owoso, however the soundbite aptly described the life of our beloved Senior Owoso, who indeed had left behind a shinning light and legacy amongst the people who at one time or the other interacted with him while he was here with us in this divide.
In as much as we miss him dearly, his memory shall continue to linger in our hearts, celebrate his life we shall, because he lived an accomplished life and impacted on his immediate and larger society. A life without an impact is no life, a positive impact for that matter. And this was his trademark in all his stations of life.
Prefect Owoso, as he was widely known while schooling at Egbado College, Ilaro, (1967-68), was a fair-minded,soft-spoken and focused senior student of our noble college. He came to the school for his HSC (Higher School Certificate), course in 1967 from Ogbomoso Grammar School, Ogbomoso, Oyo State, and within his first year in the school endeared himself to the school authorities to have been appointed a prefect in an institution with entrenched traditional values.He discharged himself admirably and lived up to the expectations of the school authorities. As a prefect he was a mentor to many of his juniors and a model to his peers. He was well known for discipline and he would not tolerate errant behaviour from unruly juniors. His spoken English was a showcase whenever he stood up at the dinning hall to address students. Senior Owoso loved ECI with a passion. After graduating from the school he was very prominent in the old students association, (ECOSA).He attended meetings and contributed significantly with his talents and treasure.
According to another old student of the college, Rev’d Benny Merriman-Johnson,Prefect Owoso once advised him not to call him “Senior” now that Rev’d. Merriman-Johnson had become a man of God, because he (Owoso) devolved all respects to God’s anointed. What an exemplary show of humility!
William Shakespeare, the British bard and literary legend wrote in his iconic book, Julius Ceasar;”When beggars die, there are no comets seen, The heavens themselves blaze forth the death of princes”. The entire membership of the Egbado College llaro Old Students Association ,(ECOSA),celebrate the life and times of one of us who has gone to be with the Lord with a fervent prayer that his soul be acceptable in His sight and strengthen the immediate family relations and friends with the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.
My dearest first cousin (
There are many paths and roads that life took you through. You gracefully crossed each hurdle.
Many oceans that you crossed on your quest for success, and you took each one ever so humbly and gracefully.
You truly valued the word “family” and you literally became the head and counsellor of our kinship.
Your life …was a life of sacrifice… to guide, to teach …. to lead…. and you did it till the last moment.
Your loss… unexplainable…. incomprehensible… but we all hold firm to the faith that you lived and believed in …….knowing that you are at rest in the Lord.
Rest In Peace….
BY CHAIRMAN COHEADS , NIGERIA
Late Dr. Olubunmi Owoso, Rector YabaTech 2001-2009 and Secretary General, CAPA( Commonwealth Association of Polytechnics in Africa) 2012-2018 was a mentor and father- figure to all Nigerian Rectors at the time of his heavenly transition about a week ago.
In retirement he worked behind the scenes to guide, educate and inform Rectors on TVET(Technical and Vocational Education and Training) issues referred to him or that he came across on his own. In effect he didn’t retire using the tools of the modern smartphone. We remain indebted to him and he indeed lives in our hearts. May his gentle and noble soul rest in perfect peace.
May God grant the family the fortitude to bear the loss with grace.
It was a Sunday evening, around 8.37pm, on 28th of June when I received a call from my younger brother, who has already called me several times on that day as usual that Dr. Olubunmi Owoso has passed on.
This is one of the worst news I’ve ever received lately, it broke my heart to lose you. You were such a good Man, the best among your equals. I grew up to know or hear People call each other my in law, everybody calling each other in-law. But you are very different. You used to call me Brother Wole, which means I am a Brother not an in-law and that’s how you called my Brother and Sisters too. You knew we’re younger ones to your Wife but you still address us as Brother/Sister. You were that humble.
It is really hard to come into terms that we will never see or hear from u again, but we will take consolation that you’ve gone to meet your creator. You taught me that the Razor Blade is so sharp but cannot cut a tree, the Axe is so strong but cannot cut hair. Everyone is important according to their own unique purpose. Never look down on anybody unless you’re admiring their shoe.
Death is inevitable, it is a journey that everyone must take, the question remains when, where, how. Often times we wish death wasn’t a part of life, we wish we would just stay alive on earth with our near and dear ones not dying. But unfortunately, we cannot. Our prayer is that we fulfill our days on earth and grow old before our time is up. We also pray that your soul will rest in perfect peace.
Every Member of your Wife (Jokotade) family mourns you. I do wonder if we can ever find anyone like u again, you left a hole no one can ever fill halfway. To lose you brings so much pain beyond belief, there are no words to ease our pain, our sadness and our grief.
Rector, as we always referred you; it is hard to come to terms with the fact that we will never hear from you again. Sweet memories fill me anytime we remember the advice you found pleasure in sharing with us and will forever be cherished. We found consolation in you whenever we got downhearted. Your benevolent smile lifted our hearts anytime you were near us. It’s gone now! Never to come back, oh. How sad we feel until now! You had a healing voice, which was ever heard, everyone admired your wisdom in solving complex issues any time we sought your input. You were a role model, and now we can proudly say that you left footprints in the sands of time. Rector, you were calm even when a situation seemed unbearable. Admittedly, we have lost a precious jewel; if death were stoppable, we would have stopped it coming your way.
Fare thee well Rector. You fought a good fight and won the race. You left a legacy that will be read through the generations, current and to come. You left a mark in our hearts, and nothing will ever erase it. It is indelible in our hearts.
You were a gem and will remain cherished.
Surely Rector, our love for you will remain forever.
Already missing you here, till we meet to part no more, GOOD NIGHT SIR.
However, be consoled that God Almighty who gave him to you knows why it is at this time that he called him home. We pray God grants his soul eternal rest in His Kingdom, and grant you the fortitude to bear the loss.
Accept once more, our condolences.
Doctor Olubunmi Owoso, Your death
Your death came to us by surprise, you’re such a good, caring, loving, and understanding daddy. You’re also such an honest disciplinarian, which you don’t spare your children when it comes to discipline. E ki gbe ebi fun alare. I will forever miss your fatherly advise, giving ministry and counseling.
Rest on my daddy in the bossom of you Lord till we meet again at the beautiful shore.
We mourn the exit of
We mourn the exit of a rare gem, a brilliant mind and a source of inspiration who impacted many lives. You were a strong pillar and a rallying point, may your kind and gentle soul rest in perfect peace. I pray that God grant the entire family the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.
Olubunmi, in course of my first meeting with you about 10 years ago, I recalled the story of the Greek philosopher Digonese of Sinope, who was said to have held a lantern in the faces of men mid-afternoon in Athens claiming he was searching for men of integrity and honour. How rare it is to find men of integrity and honour and of a loving heart like you. It gladdened me a few times I was opportuned to talk about you in close circles in your immediate past life. Yes indeed, you were not an angel, yet I scan the horizon in vain in search of words to convey apt description of you other than I would an angel in human body.
Olubunmi, you were a good man, disciplined, and transcended the binds of social consciousness. You held on to your personal values and did not look away from the face of God. Your actions, smiles, voice tones and measured words and language structure uplifted all around you. Little wonder your world is a happy and cheerful environment. The gaze of your eyes conveyed sincerity and love. You were exemplary. The immediate family you left behind, and friends remain confident and assured you would have an enabled passage in the inner worlds where you now belong.
Adieu! Our dear friend.
BUODA MI….. DADDY YABA, DADDY
You lived and spent your life in service to God and humanity to make life worth living for others.
You will be sorely missed by all of us.
Omo Eki l’ade gbo, o f’isu modi, o f’ogede s’ogba, o fi esuru s’ana.
O ni ri hun mu k’ana re k’ia r’oko agaun.
Ewure ile Eki roko agaun, aguntan ile eki roke igbaye lasun,
Omo eki d’ade eki jagun.
Omo Onijebu Egboro,
Ka to rerin odigbo.
Sunre, we love you but God loves you more.
Unforgettable, that is what you are…
To live in the hearts of those who love you is to live forever.
Good night Sir.
I have known Daddy Owoso
The news of the demise of an Icon, Dr Olubunmi Olukayode Owoso from this ephemeral world on 28th June, 2020 shook us like a ‘ tsunami’ which none of us envisaged. An astute Administrator, erudite scholar and God’s servant. Many of us are yet to get over the rude shock!
The Bible teaches us to number our days and apply our heart to wisdom( Psalm 90:12). This you did very well in your life’s sojourn, taking each day as it unfolded and making your impact felt everywhere you stepped. He was a good listener, mentor, adviser, tolerant and loving.
Never met until one evening in December 2003 when a call came in and the person introduced himself as the Rector of Yaba College of Technology, before I knew it he had already located my house . It was during our day discussions that evening that someone called him that he should stay away from the College because some students were protesting and planned to abduct the Rector that same evening. He later told me that that was the reason for his urgent visit to my house.
Never seen an Administrator and a technocrat so humble and passionate like this in all my life. This made me to report in January 2004( on sabbatical leave) at Yaba College of Technology to specifically assist with Security. The Rector gave me all the necessary supports for this herculean task that led to the success of the task. Against all odds, he was ever ready to stand by his subordinates which made peace to reign in the College.
He was very bold and down to earth, not a pretender at all, always speaking the truth in love at all times. He was a detribalized African and loved people of all faiths. Even after my official assignment at Yaba College of Technology, he was still ready to assist and ask after my family wellbeing.
May the Lord keep and protect all his loved ones in Jesus mighty name. Amen.
Sleep on in the bosom of your Creator.
News of your death came
News of your death came as a shock. We cannot question God but can only pray that your soul finds rest in His bosom. Rest In Peace Sir.
This World is not our own…we are just passing through – how very true this saying is. If only we can always remember this.
Dr. Olubunmi Owoso believed this. He came and he conquered. His achievements not only showed this….his rapport with people, his humility, his support when in need, his mien and the love he shared with all and sundry testified to this. He was one of the little percentage of people who made the world a better place.
I have known him for close to 40 years since when he was married to my late ‘sister’ Folashade. I was a regular visitor to their home. Two instances to show how he cherished relationships in his life which I can never forget. The first was when the first daughter, Kemi, was to get married. He was my Rector at the time. He called me to his office and said: “Sister, (humility) I’ll appreciate if you can help me to take complete charge of the wedding plan as Fola would have done”. God took control and it was a big success. He was very appreciative. The second – his full support during the sickness and eventual passing of my husband between 2007 and 2008. It is indeed when one is in need that you know who your friends are.
I thank God for blessing him with a partner who loved him and who stood by him to the end and children who are well-trained and Godly. I pray that God holds them strong in His Palm, comforts them and provides for their spiritual and material needs now and forever. Amen.
Dr. Owoso, your death has left a void in many people’s lives. You will be sorely missed.
May your precious soul rest in the bosom of your Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen.
It was not only shocking but unbelievable when I heard it whispered to me on that Sunday, 28th of June 2020! “No”, I said. “It cannot be”. I picked up my phone and called and it was confirmed that it was true. Ah! A loving and caring friend had walked the sands of times and left his footprints. 28th June is a day I will always remember for so many reasons until I breathe my last breath in this valley of tears.
Our last conversation on WhatsApp was a deep hearted prayer session when we prayed for our children. I should have sensed it…… Bunmi prayed deep down and I felt it that day. Death is an inevitable end and to God be the glory for the grace to accept what we cannot change.
May his loving and caring soul rest in perfect peace through Christ Our Lord. Amen
My family and I are deeply saddened by the sudden passing to glory of our very beloved daddy Olubunmi Felix Owoso on Sunday 28th June, 2020 after a brief illness. This loss without doubt is painful but in every situation we give thanks to God Almighty. With the demise of our dear daddy, A GEM, FOREMOST VISIONARY LEADER AND SCHOLAR, AND AN ADMINISTRATOR PER EXCELLENCE who kept unalloyed interest in his students, staff welfare and work IS LOST. I had the privilege and honour of working closely with him and being a student of his bosom friend, Dr Philip Olumuyiwa Adegbile ( of blessed memory ) at Kaduna Polytechnic. I still remember vividly how they were there for me; caring, mentoring, encouraging and sometimes pushful to sustain my resilience and to enable me keep up the fighting spirit that helped me thus far. Thank God for the enviable legacy you have left behind. My wife and I will continue to remember and appreciate the encouragement and mentoring offered by our late daddy and surviving lovely and loving wife – Mummy Jokotade Owoso.
To our beloved mummy, Jokotade Owoso,be rest assured that God Almighty,by His Spirit, will continually abide with you and sustain you and the family daddy has left behind. God grant the entire family and loved ones the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss in the mighty name of Jesus.Amen.
Though painful,be consoled that he has passed on IN THE LORD and resting in His bosom; and that God helping us, in His love and compassion, at RESURRECTION, we shall meet to part NO MORE.
Please accept our heartfelt CONDOLENCES.
I was speechless when the news of the demise of the late Rector Olubunmi Owoso was broken to me through one of his closest Associates and brother Dr Toriola coker because it was so sudden without prior awareness about nursing any ailment. I worked and benefited immensely while he was at the helms of affairs as Rector. As an alumnus and friend and one of the contractors serving the college. He was a gentle man to the core. Fun loving to be with for his administrative and oratory skills. He served his country Nigeria and the continent of Africa meritoriously as an accomplished scholar and administrator. He has left a big vacuum behind and i can only wish him eternal rest with his lord. We would surely miss him.
Adieu my dear Rector and brother Olubunmi Owoso.
Sun ree o.
He helped me grow and develop in my personal, professional and academic endeavors and supported me in deciding what kind of person i desired to be. My time with him was and always will be a significant part of my life as i gained the tools to be able to deal with most, if not all difficult situations, as well as gaining a friend for life.
Loyalty is paramount in Life. Significantly my encounter, relationship and friendship with Dr Olubunmi Felix Owoso was characterised by the highest level of loyalty and a virtue that is commendable in human and spiritual realms.
Rest in the blossom of your LORD as you embark on another unreturnable journey till ETERNITY.
I really can’t express in words how shocked and saddened I was when I heard the news . The only thing that gave me comfort was that you had passed on to more glorious things than we could ever see or imagine on this earth. Whilst I got to know you later in life it was as if I had known you all my life. I recall the first time we spoke (your baritone and soothing voice just tripped me!) and when we finally actually met each other we clicked instantly. Since then you have been not only my uncle but also my brother and certainly my friend. We have shared so many literally hours on the phone. We spoke about so many intimate things as well which you shared. You are kind generous respectful and caring yet you didn’t seem to realise this. You always seemed to see others as better role models than yourself but that was not the case. You gave the upmost respect for my parents and insisted on sharing them. You said you wanted to shower them with the love and respect you were unable to fully give to your parents.. You certainly went out of your way to do that. There is so much I could say about you but you know my mind already because you’re already seated in the place of all knowledge.
My only regret was not coming to see you in Kenya and missing the safari you promised to take me on. And the trip I was supposed to make when your next posting was confirmed. Sadly this didn’t happen but I know your current posting is far more spectacular…..so enjoy!
Finally I remember my last deep conversation with you and it haunts me now as you called me out of the blue and asked me to take special care of your son Laolu and the reasons you had for this. Don’t worry our very loved son will be even more special to me as I do my best to keep my promise to you. It’s only God’s grace that will help me to do this and it’s only God that will not let him down. Rest in peace my darling Namesake and I truly am sad that I will never hear you call me that name again.
Omo Ijebu egboro, omo awure
Omo Ijebu egboro, omo awure fase banu…., omo eki lade owo, omo eki lajagun……,sun re oooo. Daddy I will miss you for ever.
You did not bid us
Brother mi,
I find it extremely difficult to understand what happened but I know, according to the scripture, I will understand by and by.
Brought up together by our grandparents in Osogbo, I grew up to know you as my only brother, hence I personalized you as ‘Brother mi’, adopted by some others including our mum till date. Our grandparents taught us and lived out love, hence we love naturally, genuinely and deeply, very fond of one another.
There are many things we shared that will remain alive in my memory. We were together at our mum’s 88th birthday on March 12, 2020 with your darling wife, no inkling that was to be the last time I would see you.
On the 18th of June, I felt an urge to speak with you, we were on the phone for about one hour, talking specifically and generally, little did I know that was going to be our last discussion. I will live by your counsel, God helping me.
Brother mi, I am very proud of you. You lived an exemplary life. You have surely left a vacuum which only God can fill. My consolation is in the fact that you are a child of God and taking your desired rest in His bosom. Please sleep on till the resurrection morning. Good night Olubunmi Olukayode Ayinla, omo Owosowoye. Sun re o.
Your sister
My brother from a different mother.
It’s hard to explain with words what a special person you were.
A special person to laugh with me and help me find my way.
A special person who listened when I didn’t know what to do.
A special person who gave advice and helped me make it through.
A special person to those you know, helping when there’s need.
A special person to All my children and my mother too.
A special person married to my special sister and friend.
You never said goodbye, maybe I didn’t hear. That was unlike you.
Always painstaking and articulate in all you did. Never taking people for granted.
You loved me like your own sister and my household attests to this.
In our hearts you hold a place of honour and pride.
I’m proud to call you my brother in life and even in death.
You live on through the lives of those you have touched (and we are many).
Someday we shall see again in the bosom of Christ.
Adiós OLUWABUNMI omo OWOSO.
The great orator of Yaba college of Technology- you wonder- orator? That is the man Dr Bunmi Owoso – man of many parts- who takes any assignment seriously and executes rationally and responsibly to the admiration of all. Dr Bunmi Owoso became my boss directly in 1987 after the completion of my M.Sc in the department of Food Technology and Catering studies. He was a man who respects all his staff but expects you to deliver all deliverables on time and without any blemishes. He always worked to change systems for improvement; this led to the excise of Catering studies from the amalgamated department. His love for the profession of Food Technology from inception, led to the department accommodating many sub sections. Hence the employment of staff of various areas of specialization. He coordinated the first NBTE accreditation for the department. It was with this focused vigor that he addressed any situation for success till the time of his exit as the Rector of the institution. With his style of leadership, he worked to straighten a functional relationship between the different sections of the College with delegation as the pivot for assertiveness, control and mentorship.
I express profound and deep heartfelt gratefulness to him for the care and moral support he gave me during the period of adjusting to my amputation. Dr Bunmi Owoso was diligent, focused and committed to making positive contributions in any position he found himself.
May his soul rest in peace.
Boda Bunmi you were a rare senior brother and friend You gave me opportunity as your junior brother without conditions You were free with me and advised me on cordial relationship with my siblings. You were excited about the progress I made. I am deeply pained by the loss of the privilege of your counsel. I NEVER IMAGINED I WILL NEVER SEE YOU AGAIN. BODA, MY WIFE AND I WILL SORELY MISS YOUR COUNSEL. This is one loss only comparable to the loss of my father. I have lost a counselor I missed in my biological father and it really pains deep in to the bone marrow. Who will fill this vacuum? I look unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith.
My brother as I call you, the news of your demise came as a rude shock. I reached out to your wife on June 24th to invite both of you to my Zoom 70th Birthday. Unknown that you were sick I requested her to tell you I want to feel you on WhatsApp even if we don’t see and she said okay. What can I say! My last memory of you encompassed everything you were to me humility personified, practical generosity, respect and appreciation of hard work and professionalism as well as a peace maker. Many will be surprised at my Tribute as our relationship started on a sour note. You went out of your way to make peace with me. I saw your good side when you became the Rector, you ensured my acting appointment was confirmed and created a conducive working environment for me. You gave me due respect and made sure I enjoyed the benefits of my office. There was hardly any request I made for myself or Registry staff that you did not grant. You gave me the opportunity to attend Conferences/Workshops of Commonwealth Association of Polytechnics in Africa (CAPA) in Kenya and Swaziland with attendant benefits. You spoke highly of me that at the end of my tenure as Registrar, the Council approved your recommendation and appointed me as the first Director, Special Duties in the College. With appreciation I recall the respect you always accord my husband and your travelling to Ede, Osun State to attend the Burial of my in-law in addition to the cash gift. As time went on we knew each other better that we call each other brother and sister. I am eternally grateful to you for giving me a soft landing at the end of my tenure as Registrar. I was looking forward to seeing you again and now this, God knows best. You made sure I will not forget you by passing on my birthday. My sincerest condolences and prayers go to the wife, children and the entire family. May the Lord grant them the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.
As an in law to my Uncle,
There exists a gap between
All honour and glory to HIS HOLY NAME that my brother Dr. Olubunmi Owoso filled his gap with memories and legacies worthy of emulation, especially, by the people he came in contact with.
Dr. ‘Bunmi Owoso was somebody who had a mind of his own and loved constructive criticism. He always respected superior arguments.
When a friend vanishes out of our sight, the familiar form is seen no more. The voice of tender love is heard no more. The quiet, gentle intervention ceases. We then look up to GOD for solace.
I therefore commiserate with the entire family and pray that God will grant us all the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.
OMO OWA, OMO OBOKUN, OMO IJEBU EGBORO……………………………………………….
GOOD NIGHT MY DEAR BROTHER AND FRIEND.
From ‘Dele Aluko
Yaba College of Technology
Yaba. Lagos
It feels strange to be
This is a difficult loss for everyone, but I can imagine, most of all for his family. Mr. Owoso was a great man. He has earned his stripes and has now been taken home to the father. He will be missed, definitely not forgotten.
A Farewell to my Primary
Your death came as a rude shock to me. There is lot to say about you and I could write a whole book about you, but space and time will not permit me, so I have no choice than to be brief.
We met in All Saints Primary School Osogbo in 1956 as new intakes into Primary One. Mr. Ofrey was our Headmaster and his son too was in our class. We were about the youngest and smallest in the class. We were “running mates” with respect as to who would come first at the end of each term. But we lost contact in December 1959 when I had to move to Akure to complete my Primary school Education due to family obligations.
I recall in exact detail what happened when we met again face to face in Yaba Tech after so many years when you were the Rector there. I came for NBTE program that took place in Yaba Tech because I was also working at The Polytechnic, Ibadan and was Dean Faculty of Science. The first statement you made while delivering your speech as the host was to welcome your long-lost classmate. I was highly elated when you told me about my progress in life since we parted in 1959. You were an incredible personality. We kept in touch ever since and you remained my loyal friend throughout. You sent me personal messages in all the land mark events that took place in my life while you outside the country.
I say without mincing words that you made a success of your tenure as Yaba Tech Rector and Secretary General of CAPA (Commonwealth Association of Technical Universities and Polytechnics in Africa). Your leadership style coupled with your high sense of humour and humility remains a challenge to those of us still alive. You were a bundle of humility and joy. No one could be sad around you because you always radiated joy that came from within and nothing about you was artificial. The memory of your simple, unassuming life of truth and integrity remains indelible. You left your own mark on the sand of time.
We love you but God loves you best. Sleep well, dear classmate and brother till we meet to part no more at the feet of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. May the Almighty God grant you eternal rest and look after your children and widow.
Adieu Olubunmi. Farewell classmate!
Good night
Prof Mrs. Adenike Osofisan
Dr Olubunmi Owoso was my
I commiserate with his family on this loss and encourage them to take solace in the fact that their father’s good work will live after him and they will reap it.
Goodnight my brother, on the resurrection morning we will meet to part no more
Dr Ajibike Itegboje
On reading the announcement of the passage of Dr. Bunmi Owoso
Read more “On reading the announcement of the passage of Dr. Bunmi Owoso”
Oh, what a sad news
Dr. Owoso, visionary and decisive leader
We thank God for the life and times of Dr. Olubunmi Owoso.
Read more “We thank God for the life and times of Dr. Olubunmi Owoso.”
We are privileged to have welcomed Dr Bunmi Owoso
Read more “We are privileged to have welcomed Dr Bunmi Owoso”
My friend and brother since 1981, Dr Olubunmi Owoso
Read more “My friend and brother since 1981, Dr Olubunmi Owoso”
Dr Owoso was a brilliant administrator.
Dr Owoso was a brilliant administrator. He was an administrator whose use of carrot and stick was unequalled. He will be greatly missed.
DR. OLUBUNMI OWOSO DEPARTS
This was a man that loved and served our Alumni Association with passion. The Rector that gave the Association the pride of place within the College and beyond. It was Dr Olubunmi Owoso who so much believed in our Association to the extent of giving a parcel of land to the Association to build the Alumni Building in spite of contempt and criticisms from various quarters. He also stood by the Alumni Association during the fundraising struggle to construct the Alumni Building. He was ever ready to release vehicles and other resources for the use of the Association as and when requested.
Even after he served and left the College, Dr Olubunmi Owoso remained one of the backbones of the Association in many respects. From his base in far away Kenya, Dr Owoso was ever receptive and readily available with the impetus to be of service to the Association.
On behalf of the President, National Executive Council and entire members of Yaba College of Technology, we hereby express our shock on the unexpected demise of an illustrous and charismatic academician, courageous optimist, seasoned administrator, and the BEST FRIEND our Association has ever had.
He was not an Alumnus of the College, yet the record of his service to our Alumni Association may not be surpassed in the foreseeable future.
DR. OLUBUNMI OWOSO, MAY YOUR SOUL REST IN PERFECT PEACE. Our Association shall be eternally grateful to you. We pray that God will grant your family the fortitude to bear this loss.
For:
The National Executive Council,
Bldr. Yemi Osibajo
To my friend and colleague Dr. Owoso
Dr Owoso will be greatly missed by many of us
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