Celebrating a Legacy: Mr. Nathaniel Jolaiya’s Retirement and 60th Birthday Thanksgiving

The family of Mr. Nathaniel Adeolu Jolaiya gathered friends and well-wishers for a memorable celebration on Sunday, June 1, 2025, marking his retirement as the Registrar of the Federal College of Animal Health and Production Technology (FCAH&PT), Moor Plantation, Ibadan and his milestone 60th birthday. The event took place at the Abundant Grace Baptist Church in Aladewo, Omi Adio, providing a meaningful space to express gratitude and reflect on a remarkable career dedicated to education, mentorship, and community service.

The celebration was attended by an array of dignitaries, including esteemed academics, doctors, professors, and fellow colleagues from FCAH&PT. Their presence underscored the profound respect and admiration Mr. Jolaiya has earned throughout his career in academia.

In a heartfelt biography read during the celebration, it was highlighted that Mr. Jolaiya achieved his dreams of higher learning while serving at FCAH&PT, having earned his degree in Public Administration from the Polytechnic, Ibadan, and a Master's in Personnel Psychology at the University of Ibadan. His academic pursuits culminated in his ascension to the position of college registrar on January 1, 2024.

Throughout his years of dedicated service, Mr. Jolaiya participated in various committees and training programs, both locally and abroad, including enriching experiences in Mississippi, USA, and N’Djamena, Republic of Chad. Known affectionately as "Papa Nath," he has a remarkable talent for making those around him feel valued and happy, demonstrating a genuine love for counseling and mentoring others.

Mr. Jolaiya is also a Fellow of the Institute of Corporate Administration (FICA) of Nigeria and a member of the Centre for Corporate Secretarial and Advanced Management Studies (MCSAMS) of Nigeria. He is happily married and blessed with promising children and grandchildren.

As the day unfolded, numerous attendees took to the microphone to share their heartfelt tributes. Mrs. Abiola Ilufoye - Nee Jolaiya, who represented the extended family, expressed that "Mr. Nath is a father and a caring individual," underscoring the deep familial bond and admiration for his character.

Mrs. C.O. Akinlade, his secretary and office representative, praised him as more than just a boss, stating, "Mr. Nathaniel is a leader. He is accommodating and doesn’t get angry easily. He can’t say what he cannot defend, and he knows how to compensate us."

Dr. O.J. Banjoko, a friend to the celebrant and staff member at FCAH&PT, also shared his sentiments, noting, "He is an epitome of humility and an encourager. He encouraged me to pursue my PhD, which I did, and I don’t regret it. He has been a great mentor to me."

Rev. (Dr.) O.O. Idowu, the head pastor of Abundant Grace Baptist Church, remarked, "Although Mr. Jolaiya just joined our church not long ago, I can truly say that he shows great respect for men of God. If he needs to travel and cannot attend church, he always informs me and tells me where he will be worshipping. He doesn't joke with mid-week service and always comes with his wife, despite his busy schedule."

Rev. Odekunle, in his short exhortation titled "It is time to praise God," referencing Psalm 92:1-2, stated, "We have come to celebrate the goodness of God in the life of our father. All you have to do is keep praising God, which is why you have gathered us all here today. This celebration is a new turnaround of God's faithfulness in your life, so continue to reflect on His faithfulness and love."

In an exclusive interview with CEOAFRICA, Mr. Jolaiya expressed his deep-seated joy, reflecting, "Despite all I faced and went through, I thank God that I later became the Registrar of a Federal Institution. I am grateful for the support I received in the college where I worked, and I especially thank my pastors for their encouraging words, which have brought me this far. I also thank God for helping me marry right and for His faithfulness in my life."

"I am so happy and joyous today. Reflecting on my journey, I recognize that it was not always easy; there were challenges along the way, but I am grateful. I dedicated 1 year and 8 months as registrar, and I appreciate the cooperation of my colleagues. The most important lesson I have learned is to never underestimate anyone, regardless of their position."

Dr. Adekoya O. Owosibo, the Provost of FCAH&PT, shared warm comments about Mr. Jolaiya's character. "He is a wonderful man. Working with him, I found a friend in him. He is wise and supportive, loyal, and faithful. I truly wish him good health and happiness in this new chapter of his life."

Deputy Provost Admin, Dr. Ogunleke Funmilayo Oladunni, echoed these sentiments, praising Mr. Jolaiya as "humility personified" and an "epitome of wisdom." She encouraged him to continue living life with faith and tranquility, recognizing the significant role these qualities will play in his future endeavors.

Rev. (Dr.) Gideon Oyeleke Bolaji, a retired pastor, lauded Mr. Jolaiya's character stating, "Baba Nath is level-headed, cool, calm, and collected. He always strives for the growth of the church and places men of God in high esteem. He is a man of integrity and a diligent member of the church," wishing him continued blessings in life.

Mrs. Rachel Oluwafunke Jolaiya, his wife, shared her deep appreciation, saying, "I am very happy about today. My husband is a child of God, my lover, and a caring father. I pray God grants him longevity as he embarks on this new journey." She further shared her sentiments, saying, "Everything everyone said in church about my husband is true. I have enjoyed a lot of grace in his life, and through him, I have learned to accommodate people. He believes deeply in prayer, and God has never disappointed us. He is truly caring."

Embracing the moment, his children also expressed their pride. "I am delighted to celebrate my father, a man of integrity," remarked Mr. Olusola Jolaiya, the eldest son. "It fills my heart with joy to see the legacy he is leaving for us." His siblings, Dr. Titilope Olagbegi and Emmanuel Jolaiya, further shared their admiration and hopes for his future happiness and health as he transitions into retirement.

The event culminated in heartfelt prayers and a sense of communal unity, as attendees lifted their voices in gratitude and thanksgiving. This celebration of Mr. Nathaniel Adeolu Jolaiya was not just a farewell; it was a vivid tribute to a life well-lived, a dedicated educator, and a cherished family man who has instilled strong values in his community and family. As he steps into retirement, the legacy he leaves behind will undoubtedly continue to inspire all those fortunate enough to know him.