By ABEL JOHNGOLD ORHERUATA
The President of University of Ibadan Alumni Association (UIAA) worldwide, Prof. Saawua Gabriel Nyityo, Senator Oluremi Tinubu and top Clergies across the globe, on Thursday showered encomiums on Pastor Maureen Florence Iyabode Bakare, for her courageous, steadfast and diligent to public service.
Prof. Nyityo in his respective congratulatory message on behalf of UIAA at the presentation of an autobiography, ‘On The Service Lane – An Autobiography’ and 85th birthday celebration of Maureen Bakare, lauded the author for doing a thorough job of encapsulating her experiences in a book.
Nyityo, who led other alumnus to the official unveiling of the autobiography of Pastor Maureen Bakare at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs, Victoria Island, Lagos, said It was UIAA earnest desire that the life story of Bakare, an alumnus of University of Ibadan, so beautifully captured, in the publication would serve as a source of inspiration to both the young and not so young at heart.
He noted that “the book truly captures your story and that of an age when public servants were known for their sense of public duty, of selflessness and of accountability. They were generally known to discharge their official duties with dedication, commitment and brilliance. This had its consequences, implying that women’s working life at that time was less socialized.
“But you defied all that and took on a more socialized pattern even during your University days. You emerged Social Secretary, later Secretary and finally the Hall Chairperson of Queen Elizabeth 11 Hall, University of Ibadan, Ibadan. You later emerged as member of the Executive Committee and now a member of the Board of Trustees UIAA Worldwide”.
Nyityo, who recalled how Bakare robustly engaged in public service, further praised her for being a true UIte and upright Nigerian.
“We are indeed grateful for your services both to your Alma mater and to UIAA. As you continue to offer invaluable service to humanity even well after retirement, we pray that the Almighty God will continue to bless you more and more. Wishing you happy birthday celebration and a successful public presentation of your memoire”.