Tribute: Dr Sholanke Extends Heartfelt Birthday Wishes To Sir David Sunmoni -

Sir David Olabanji Adewale Sunmoni, FCA, FCCA, CITN, KJW
Pro-Chancellor and Former Chairman
Lagos State University Governing Council
Alakoso Ijo, Patriarch Bolaji Methodist Cathedral Church, Ikorodu
Lagos State

Dearest Uncle Sir Sunmoni (KJW),

HEARTY CONGRATULATIONS ON YOUR 70TH BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION

It is with immense joy, profound gratitude to Almighty God, and deep reverence that I write on behalf of the family of Late Bishop Samuel Kolawole Solanke and Mrs. Janet Mosunmola Solanke to felicitate with you on the momentous occasion of your 70th birthday on January 16, 2026.

Seventy years is not merely a milestone; it is a divine testimony of God’s faithfulness, mercy, and abundant grace upon your life. The Psalmist declares: “The days of our years are threescore years and ten; and if by reason of strength they be fourscore years, yet is their strength labour and sorrow; for it is soon cut off, and we fly away” (Psalm 90:10). You have reached this biblical landmark in excellent health, sound mind, and remarkable relevance, a triple blessing that only God’s benevolence can bestow.

A Life of Distinguished Service and Exemplary Leadership

Sir Sunmoni, your life’s journey reads like a masterclass in dedication, excellence, and purposeful living. From your humble beginnings at Methodist High School, Lagos, and Oriwu College, Ikorodu, through the hallowed halls of Lagos State University where you earned your MBA, to the prestigious London School of Accountancy, you have consistently demonstrated that education is the foundation upon which greatness is built.

Your professional career in the private sector with distinguished organizations such as A.G. Leventis Nigeria Plc, Pfizer Products Plc, Beta Glass Plc, and Livestock Feeds Plc laid the groundwork for excellence. However, it was your transition into public service that truly showcased your commitment to nation-building and community development.

Rising through the ranks of the Lagos State Civil Service from Assistant Director to Director of Accounts, then to the exalted positions of Auditor-General (2010-2012), and subsequently Accountant-General and Permanent Secretary (2012-2015), you exemplified the biblical principle: “Seest thou a man diligent in his business? He shall stand before kings; he shall not stand before mean men” (Proverbs 22:29). Indeed, you have stood before governors, you have counseled policymakers, and you have shaped the financial architecture of Lagos State.

Your appointment as Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Lagos State University Governing Council in July 2021 was not accidental but providential, a recognition that “Promotion cometh neither from the east, nor from the west, nor from the south. But God is the judge: he putteth down one, and setteth up another” (Psalm 75:6-7).

A Crown of Honor: The IKODASS Merit Award

When on Saturday, November 19, 2022, His Royal Majesty, Alaiyeluwa Oba (Engr.) Kabir Adewale Shotobi, the Ayangburen of Ikorodu, conferred upon you the IKODASS Merit Award, the highest honor of the Ikorodu Oga Development Association, during the 31st Ikorodu Oga Day, it was a public affirmation of what many already knew: that you are an outstanding son of Ikorodu Kingdom whose profound impact on the community is immeasurable.

That you were the sole recipient of this prestigious award in 2022 speaks volumes about your exceptional contributions to humanity. The Holy Scripture reminds us: “A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favour rather than silver and gold” (Proverbs 22:1). You have earned both a good name and loving favor through integrity, hard work, and selfless service.

A Man of Faith and Spiritual Distinction

Beyond your professional accomplishments, what truly distinguishes you is your unwavering commitment to the Christian faith and the Methodist Church Nigeria. Your investiture as Knight of John Wesley (KJW) and your recent conferment as ALAKOSO IJO of Patriarch Bolaji Methodist Cathedral Church, Ikorodu, are testaments to your spiritual depth and dedication to kingdom advancement.

Jesus Christ admonished: “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven” (Matthew 5:16). Sir Sunmoni, your light has shone brilliantly in both secular and sacred spheres, bringing glory to God and blessing to humanity.

Your membership in the Oriwu Club, Ikorodu, and Lagos Country Club further demonstrates your commitment to fellowship, community building, and the mentorship of younger generations—living proof that “Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend” (Proverbs 27:17).

Lessons from Your Seven Decades

As we celebrate your 70th birthday, permit me to highlight the invaluable lessons your life teaches us:

Excellence is Non-Negotiable: Your dual fellowship of both the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (FCA) and the Chartered Association of Certified Accountants (FCCA), along with your associate membership of the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN), demonstrates that continuous learning and professional development are lifelong pursuits.

Integrity is Priceless: Managing the finances of a mega-state like Lagos requires impeccable integrity. You served with distinction, proving that “He that walketh uprightly walketh surely” (Proverbs 10:9).

Service to Humanity is Service to God: From the private sector to public service, from professional endeavors to church leadership, you have embodied the principle that “As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men” (Galatians 6:10).

Family is Fundamental: That you celebrate this milestone with your beloved wife and children is a testimony to your success in balancing professional excellence with family values. “Except the Lord build the house, they labour in vain that build it” (Psalm 127:1).

A Legacy on Behalf of Late Bishop Samuel Kolawole Solanke

Sir, although my father, Late Bishop Samuel Kolawole Solanke, has gone to be with the Lord, I know he would have been exceedingly proud of your achievements and contributions to both the Methodist Church and society at large. He always celebrated men and women of integrity who combined professional excellence with spiritual commitment.

My mother, Mrs. Janet Mosunmola Solanke, joins me in thanking God for your life and in praying for many more years of health, wisdom, and continued service to God and humanity.

Our Prayer for Your New Season

As you step into this new decade of life, we pray:

May the Lord continue to uphold you with His righteous right hand (Isaiah 41:10).

May your latter days be greater than your former days (Job 42:12).

May you continue to bear fruit in old age, remaining fresh and flourishing (Psalm 92:14).

May the God of all grace multiply wisdom, understanding, and divine health unto you (Daniel 1:17).

May your children and grandchildren rise up and call you blessed (Proverbs 31:28).

May your legacy continue to inspire generations yet unborn.

In Conclusion

Sir David Olabanji Sunmoni, as you celebrate this diamond milestone, remember that “The hoary head is a crown of glory, if it be found in the way of righteousness” (Proverbs 16:31). Your hoary head, when it comes, will indeed be a crown of glory, for you have walked in the way of righteousness.

Thank you for being a role model, a mentor, a faithful servant of God, and an exemplary leader. Thank you for showing us that it is possible to attain professional excellence without compromising Christian values. Thank you for making Ikorodu proud and for leaving indelible footprints on the sands of time.

May this celebration mark not an end, but a glorious new beginning. May the next phase of your life be filled with divine health, supernatural joy, and unprecedented grace.