Foundation, others immortalise Sofenwa

Friends, associates and family of the late pioneer chairman of the Ogun State Teaching Service Commission, Chief Lamidi Ayinla Sofenwa recently gathered in Abeokuta to celebrate the life and times of the foremost educationist with a book launch and scholarship scheme in his honour.

They also called for a post-humous national award for Safenwa, described as a systematic teacher who lived a perfect life of service to the nation’s education sector.

Late Sofenwa was a former principal of the famous Comprehensive High School, Aiyetoro and also the Chairman, Governing Board of Tai Solarin College of Education (TASCE), Omu-Ijebu.

The event was jointly organised by the Egba Science Education Foundation, Abeokuta Club, Ogun State Cricket Foundation, Old Student Association Comprehensive School, Ayetoro and Methodist Boys High School, Lagos to mark the first year remembrance of the renowned educationist.

The book entitled “Lamidi Ayinla Sofenwa: Quintessential gentleman and educationist: A Biography”, was written by Olasumbo Martins, Dele Sogbesan and Biodun Odetoyin.

Some of the eminent personalities that graced the occasion were the State Governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, members of the state executive council, Dr. G. A Soyoye, who chaired the occasion, Chief Olatunde Abudu, Justice Deinde Shoremi, Niyi Lasaki, Dele Sogbesan and Bode Popoola.

Amosun, in his remarks described Sofenwa as a detribalised Nigerian, sportsman and renowned educationist who had contributed in no small measure to the development of education sector in the country.

“Clearly baba (Sofenwa) was a quintessential devoted man, an educationist per excellence and a detribalised Nigerian. He went to Postiskum in Yobe State and he worked to the extent that a hall was named after him there.

Also, Soyoye described the late Sofenwa as “a man with many parts”, adding, “He was a good man, worthy in character and learning and a colossus in education”.

Soyoye added, “He (Sofenwa) excelled everywhere he worked. He was a man who was respected and honoured both home and abroad”.

On the scholarship scheme, the chairman said, “If Sofenwa was alive, he would want to give scholarships to deserving students”.
He disclosed that all the proceeds of the launch would be channeled to the scholarship scheme.

The book reviewer, Dr. Taofiq Salisu said, “The book was well put together in a very simple, clear and concise language”.

According to him, “This book is centred on a man of honour and distinction, an educationist of great stature, a trainer, a great mentor, a loco parentis, an excellent sportsman, a great communicator and motivator.”