Wole Bamiro, Lagos

TO WONDERFUL FRIEND…

ASIWAJU YINKA FASUYI ON HIS 70TH BIRTHY DAY.

Asiwaju Yinka Fasuyi (Baba Lee) has been an incredible source of positivity and support in my life, particularly during the early days of my marriage over 40 years ago.

This tribute is to let him know how much he means to me, my wife Abimbola and my Sons, Lana and Yemi Bamiro. The things we admire about Asiwaju is his genuine love, kindness and empathy towards us and those privileged to associate with him.

Asiwaju Fasuyi is also a testament to what can happen when an individual combines hardwork, meticulousness, discipline, self-belief and dedication towards set goals. Here, I recall with nostalgia in the eighties, his surprise nocturnal visits to Total Filling Stations under his jurisdictions as Sales Representative of Total Nig. Ltd. in Ibadan. Most times when Asiwaju and I were going for our night cap (faaji) our first port of call was Total Filling Stations under him and the purpose of these nocturnal visits were to checkmate attendants from shortchanging unsuspecting customers as this could be inimical to the corporate vision of his employers… Total Nig. Ltd. A few meters to the Filling Station, Asiwaju will alight from my old Opel Record Car inherited from my old man. The car was notorious for its engine oil consumption hence it was a perfect tool in the hands of Asiwaju’s nocturnal visits. I will drive into the Station posing as an intending customer.

At the point of Sale, Asiwaju will appear from nowhere under cover of darkness to observe and monitor the sale of fuel and engine oil. He will monitor the meter on the pump and examine the various cans used for the sale of Engine oil, which in some cases may have been altered by attendants to shortchange customers. Woe betides any station found wanting, as it will be closed down immediately, while the dealer will be requested to report the following morning at the Total Headquarters in Mokola for necessary disciplinary action. No amount of pleading can ever dissuade Asiwaju from sanctioning such erring Filling station. For Asiwaju Fasuyi, it is business before pleasure.

It is not surprising therefore, that Asiwaju Yinka and his amiable wife Yeye (Dr.) Olubisi Fasuyi were able to grow and nurture their 33 year old Supreme Management, Training and Consulting Firm to present aviable height and as one of the foremost consulting institute in Nigeria and elsewhere in the world.

I pray that the years ahead will overflow with blessings and joy for you Asiwaju Fasuyi (Baba Lee) and your entire family.

Wole Bamiro

Lagos.