A Tribute at 80: Celebrating Alhaji Bashorun Babatunde Tajudeen Rotinwa’s Legacy of Excellence and Service -

By Oluwole Solanke, PhD, FCIB

Basorun Babatunde Rotinwa, former Chairman, Lagos State Local Government Service Commission

With profound gratitude to Allah (SWT) and immense admiration, I, Oluwole Solanke, on behalf of the Oriwu College 1977 Set, extend our warmest congratulations to you on the remarkable occasion of your 80th birthday. Today, as we gathered at the esteemed Harbour Point Event Centre, Victoria Island, to celebrate your extraordinary life, the presence of Royal Fathers, former and serving Heads of Service, Permanent Secretaries, white cap chiefs, your beloved children, grandchildren, family, and well-wishers was a powerful testament to the profound legacy you have built as an iconic administrator, community leader, and human capital builder.

Your journey is a shining example of excellence and service, illuminated by the Qur’anic verse: “And We have enjoined upon man goodness to parents, and if they should strive… say to them a word of noble speech” (Surah Al-Isra, 17:23). Your 80 years reflect a life of noble speech and action, from your academic achievements at Chicago State University, where you earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology (1974) and a Master of Science in Natural Science, to your distinguished career in public service. Your first post-qualification role at your alma mater set the stage for a remarkable tenure in the Lagos State Civil Service, culminating in your appointment as Head of Service in September 1998 under Brigadier-General Buba Marwa.

Retiring in June 1999 did not dim your passion for service. Your post-retirement contributions as a Senior Special Adviser to the Minister of the Federal Ministry of Works, your work with IGI and B.T.R Consultancy Services, and your exemplary leadership as Chairman of the Lagos State Local Government Service Commission for five years further cemented your reputation as a guru of administration. As President and Chairman of the Council of the Chartered Institute of Public Administration of Nigeria, you have inspired countless professionals with your wisdom and integrity.

The Qur’an reminds us, “Whoever does righteousness, whether male or female, while he is a believer – We will surely cause him to live a good life…” (Surah An-Nahl, 16:97). Your life, Alhaji Rotinwa, embodies this promise. As a caring father and loving husband, you have nurtured a family that radiates your values, with your daughter, Mrs. Rashidat Abimbola Ayeni (nee Rotinwa), a true reflection of your administrative excellence and character. The joy that filled the venue today, particularly with the rousing welcome for the current Head of Service, Mr. Shuaheeb Olabode Agoro, underscores the enduring respect your legacy commands.

The Prophet Muhammad (SAW) taught us, “The best of people are those who are most beneficial to others” (Hadith, Al-Bukhari). Your life’s work—building communities, empowering individuals, and serving with unwavering dedication—exemplifies this teaching. At 80, you stand as a beacon of barakah, a living testament to the rewards of righteousness and service.

On behalf of the Oriwu College 1977 Set, I pray that Allah (SWT) continues to bless you with robust health, boundless joy, and His infinite mercy. May your legacy be a source of sadaqah jariyah, benefiting generations to come, as Allah promises: “The example of those who spend their wealth in the way of Allah is like a seed which grows seven spikes; in each spike is a hundred grains…” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:261).