Speeches

Final Disengagement And 70th Birthday Thanksgiving Service For Archbishop Of The West, Most Revd. Dr. Andrew Obarisiagbon JP. The First African Church Mission

Mar 15, 2009 - We are gathered here today to celebrate one of the great men of our time, a respected religious leader, a great achiever and a man of the people. Most Revd. Dr. Andrew Obarisiagbon, Archbishop of the West, The First African Church Mission. The celebration is a double Most Revd. Dr. Obarisiagbon is 70 and he is finally disengaging his services as the Archbishop of the West of the church.

The attainment of the ripe age of six scores and ten by any person is indeed a landmark achievement, especially when much of the years were spent rendering services in the vineyard of God almighty, as our celebrant has done in this church, which he served righteously and crowned it with the attainment of the highest rank of Archbishop.

We all pray to God to know our mission on earth so we can fulfil it to His glory. Today’s celebration is in recognition of the answer to that prayer by God in the life of Archbishop Obarisiagbon.

Having fully equipped himself with the required academic qualification, the celebrant offered himself for service to God in His vineyard and thought it wise to retire after a meritorious service. This achievement is an indication that he derives pleasure in serving God; serving humanity and bringing happiness to people.

Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen, I am told that the Archbishop Obarisiagbon has been a source of inspiration and blessing to many, radiating love, spreading joy and happiness. In his capacity as the Archbishop of the West, he piloted the affairs of the church successfully by preaching love, mutual tolerance of one another, better understanding and thereby contributed to the peace and stability of society, particularly in Lagos State.

I rejoice with all the family members of the celebrant today, colleagues, friends and well-wishers. I urge you all to emulate his shining exemplary qualities of leadership. I congratulate especially the organising committee for putting together a successful event like this.

I wish to assure you and all Lagosians that this administration will continue to identify with organisations, groups and institutions which mean well for the welfare of our people and the people of the society. Our unwavering commitment is to build a re-branded Lagos that will be the pride to us all by the grace of Almighty God.

As you disengage from service today, and mark seven decades of your sojourn on earth May God grant you, Archbishop Obarisiagbon more years of fruitful and dedicated service to your fatherland in sound and good health.

May God continue to bless and guide every of your footsteps so that we can still continue to benefit from your wealth of wisdom.

Congratulations and Happy birthday.

Thank you all and God bless you.

Eko ONi Baje o!

Mr. Babatunde Raji Fashola (SAN)
Executive Governor
Lagos State