Forum hails Tunji-Ojo over Gwagwalada immigration office visit
The Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, on Tuesday received members of the PBAT Mandate Elders Forum on a courtesy visit in Abuja, where the group commended his compassionate leadership, sustained support, and commitment to the welfare of elders, particularly in Ondo State. The visit, which came days after the Minister’s widely praised unannounced inspection […]
The Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, on Tuesday received members of the PBAT Mandate Elders Forum on a courtesy visit in Abuja, where the group commended his compassionate leadership, sustained support, and commitment to the welfare of elders, particularly in Ondo State.
The visit, which came days after the Minister’s widely praised unannounced inspection of the Nigeria Immigration Service office in Gwagwalada, was described by the elders as further evidence of his hands-on, people-centred approach to public service.
The delegation, comprising respected elders, community leaders and political stakeholders, used the meeting to reflect on governance, national leadership and the enduring role of elders in nation-building.
Speaking on behalf of the Forum, its Chairman, Chief Erastus Akeju, said the Minister’s support had been consistent, thoughtful and unprecedented, noting that it has significantly improved the wellbeing of members since the Forum was established.
“Dr Tunji-Ojo has remained steadfast — from monthly financial and medical interventions to moral encouragement. His support has brought relief, restored dignity and rekindled hope among our members. The Christmas and New Year support was historic in Ondo State and deeply reassuring to elders who have served society in their productive years,” Akeju said.
The Secretary of the Forum, Hon. Ebenezer Alabi, said the Minister’s actions reflected a deep respect for elders and a values-driven approach to leadership that goes beyond politics.
“What we see is leadership rooted in compassion. Dr Tunji-Ojo does not treat elders as liabilities but as assets. His consistent engagement has strengthened our confidence in government and in the Renewed Hope Agenda,” Alabi stated.
Also speaking, the Forum’s Facilitator, Hon. Demola Ijabiyi, reaffirmed the group’s loyalty to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and its readiness to mobilise elders and their followers across Ondo State ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“As elders and opinion leaders, we remain committed to galvanising our followers across the state. We will continue to support President Tinubu and stand firmly with leaders like Dr Tunji-Ojo who demonstrate responsive and people-centred governance,” Ijabiyi said.
In his response, Dr Tunji-Ojo expressed gratitude to the elders, describing them as custodians of wisdom, institutional memory and moral authority in society.
“These are people who have paid their dues. They are like a board of trustees — a reservoir of knowledge and wisdom. We can only tap from them and learn from them because they have so much to offer. Their experience is our asset,” the Minister said.
He assured the Forum of his continued commitment to their welfare and to inclusive governance driven by service to the people.
“I sincerely appreciate this group. I assure you that I will continue to do more for the people, for the leaders of this Forum and for the group as a whole. Public service is a sacred trust, and we remain focused on delivering impact,” he added.
The Minister also stressed the importance of collaboration between generations, noting that sustainable national development can only be achieved when the wisdom of elders complements the energy of younger leaders.
The visit ended with prayers for the health of members of the Forum, the success of President Tinubu’s administration, and the continued progress of Nigeria.