By Omotayo Akinola
A heartfelt farewell ceremony was held in honour of Mr. Oluyinka Owolabi, former Oyo-RMRDC State Coordinator, at the Oyo Federal Secretariat in Ikolaba, Ibadan, Oyo State, on June 16, 2025. The event drew dignitaries from various places, including HRM Oba Adedire Adewole Solomon (Onifegunwa of Ifegunwa, Ile Ife), the former Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology Akure Emeritus Prof. Adebisi M. Balogun, and coordinators from various states, such as Mr. Adeyemi Saheed A. (Osun-RMRDC), Mr. Rabiu B.O (Ogun-RMRDC), Mrs. Tejumola A.O (Ondo-RMRDC) and Mr. Adeogun O.A (Acting Oyo-RMRDC Coordinator).
Notably, Mr. Oluyinka Owolabi has made significant contributions to raw materials development and industrial growth, receiving the RMRDC Best State Coordinator award in 2017, 2019 and 2023 for his impact in the annual raw materials quiz competition. He has also represented the Director-General at various national fora, advocating passionately for raw materials research and industrial development.

The Chairman of the occasion, Pastor (Dr.) Adewale A. Jimoh (JP), praised Mr. Oluyinka Owolabi’s dedication to duty, strong faith, and commitment to teamwork, noting that his remarkable ability to bring people together had enabled the achievement of shared goals.
Mr. Adeyemi Saheed A., Osun-RMRDC Coordinator, delivered a poignant speech, expressing gratitude for Mr. Oluyinka Owolabi’s selfless service, stating, “Your dedication and selfless service to the council will never be forgotten. You have set a high standard for us to follow. Your leadership and mentorship have been instrumental in shaping the council’s success, and we are forever grateful for your tireless efforts.”
HRM Oba Adedire Adewole Solomon commended Mr. Oluyinka Owolabi’s leadership and commitment, praying for God’s continued blessings. The staff of RMRDC expressed heartfelt appreciation for his mentorship and leadership, praising his ability to build strong relationships and foster teamwork.
In response, Mr. Oluyinka Owolabi thanked the Council, particularly Professor Nnanyelugo Martins Ike-Muonso, the Director-General of RMRDC, for his impactful leadership style. He also thanked his wife, Mrs. Owolabi, and attendees, saying, “I am humbled by your presence and appreciation. Thank you for being part of my journey.”







