HAPPY BIRTHDAY, GBENGA OLAWEPO-HASHIM

BISI FAKAYODE pays tribute to Olawepo-Hashim, a man of exceptional courage

There are relationships born of circumstance, and there are those ordained by divine providence. My friendship and association with Gbenga Olawepo- Hashim, unquestionably belong to the latter. As he celebrates another year of God’s abundant grace on June 28, 2026, I consider it a rare privilege to pay tribute to a man whose life has remained a shining testament to courage, patriotism, compassion, unwavering faith and selfless service to humanity.

Reflecting on the many decades of our friendship, my heart overflows with gratitude to Almighty God for the privilege of knowing Dr. Gbenga Olawepo- Hashim. Ours is far more than a political association; it is a friendship founded on shared convictions, mutual trust and an enduring commitment to justice, equity and the progress of Nigeria. It is a relationship that has profoundly shaped my life and significantly influenced my journey in public service.

My association with Gbenga Olawepo- Hashim predates the historic June 12 pro-democracy struggle. We first met during the military administration of General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, when I served as Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Kwara State Council. Even as a young man, he had already distinguished himself as a fearless pro-democracy activist who detested injustice, oppression and every form of marginalisation.

 Whenever the rights of ordinary Nigerians were threatened, he stood resolutely on the side of truth, fairness and justice, regardless of the personal consequences.

What drew us together was our shared conviction that leadership is fundamentally about service. We believed that society can only flourish where justice prevails, the rule of law is upheld and every citizen is given equal opportunity to realise his or her potential. Those common ideals transformed what began as an acquaintance into a lifelong friendship.

Ironically, I never envisioned a career in politics. My years in the labour movement had left me with the impression that politics was largely an arena dominated by deception and self-interest, where promises were rarely fulfilled. It was Olawepo- Hashim who patiently challenged that perception. He convinced me that politics, when guided by integrity, vision and compassion, remains one of the noblest platforms for serving humanity.

His confidence in my abilities extended far beyond words. Rather than merely encouraging me, he deliberately created opportunities for me to make meaningful contributions to society. Through the mutual trust and confidence we shared, he introduced me to active politics. In 1998, I was appointed State Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Kwara State. That appointment became the foundation upon which my political career was built, eventually leading to my emergence as Chairman of Irepodun Local Government Area. Looking back today, I remain convinced that these milestones might never have been achieved without his mentorship, encouragement and unwavering belief in my potential.

Beyond my personal experience lies an even greater story. Gbenga Olawepo -Hashim remains one of the foremost architects of modern democratic politics in Kwara State. At a time when many doubted the viability of opposition politics, he demonstrated exceptional courage by investing his time, energy and personal resources in building and strengthening the Peoples Democratic Party in the state. Today, many respected political leaders and public office holders are direct or indirect beneficiaries of the political structures, mentorship and leadership philosophy he helped to establish. His contributions to democratic development remain indelible.

Yet politics tells only part of his remarkable story.

One of Olawepo- Hashim’s greatest virtues is his extraordinary compassion for humanity. He is a philanthropist in the truest sense of the word. Over the years, he has quietly transformed countless lives by supporting education, facilitating employment opportunities, empowering young entrepreneurs, assisting widows and vulnerable families, and opening doors for deserving Nigerians without seeking recognition or reward. His generosity transcends ethnic, religious and political boundaries. On countless occasions, he has willingly sacrificed his own comfort simply to put smiles on the faces of others. It is therefore no surprise that many across Nigeria proudly regard him as a benefactor, mentor and father figure.

For us in Igbomina land, Olawepo- Hashim occupies a unique and honoured place in our history. Though he has never occupied elective political office, he has consistently deployed his vast network, influence and goodwill to advance the interests of the Igbomina people. Through his interventions, numerous sons and daughters of Igbomina have secured political appointments, employment opportunities, scholarships and various forms of empowerment. His commitment has never been motivated by personal gain but by a genuine desire to see others succeed.

Perhaps one of the most remarkable aspects of his personality is the richness of his heritage. His father hailed from Kebbi State in Northern Nigeria, his mother was from Ogbomoso in Oyo State, while he was nurtured during his formative years by an Igbomina family. This unique blend of cultures has made him a true symbol of Nigerian unity. He relates naturally with people across ethnic, religious and regional divides, seeing every Nigerian as a member of one family. At a time when our nation yearns for greater unity, Olawepo- Hashim stands as a living embodiment of the Nigeria we all desire—a nation united by shared values rather than divided by differences.

Another inspiring chapter of his life is his spiritual transformation. Beyond his accomplishments as a businessman, democracy advocate, politician and philanthropist, Gbenga Olawepo- Hashim has devoted himself increasingly to the service of God through the preaching of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Those of us who have known him closely over the years have witnessed this remarkable transition with admiration and gratitude.

The same passion, courage and conviction with which he fought against injustice and defended democratic ideals are now dedicated to proclaiming the saving message of Christ. His faith is not merely professed; it is reflected in the way he lives. He exemplifies humility, compassion, righteousness and complete dependence on God. Through his teachings, personal example and daily interactions, he continually encourages others to embrace Christ, live uprightly and place God at the centre of their lives.

His spiritual journey has further strengthened the virtues that have always distinguished him—kindness, generosity, forgiveness and selfless service. He constantly reminds us that true greatness is measured not by wealth, political influence or public acclaim, but by one’s relationship with God and the positive impact one makes on humanity. His life today stands as a beautiful testimony that there is no higher calling than serving God while serving mankind.

On a personal note, words cannot adequately express what Olawepo- Hashim has been to me. He has been a trusted friend, dependable ally, mentor, leader and brother. His encouragement, guidance and unwavering support have contributed immensely to my personal growth and public service journey. I remain eternally grateful to Almighty God for bringing our paths together. Knowing him has been one of the greatest blessings of my life.

As family, friends, associates and admirers gather to celebrate this exceptional statesman, nation-builder and servant of God, I join millions of well-wishers in thanking Almighty God for a life devoted to justice, service and humanity. Nigeria is undoubtedly better because of men like Gbenga Olawepo- Hashim—men whose influence is measured not merely by the offices they have held, but by the countless lives they have touched, inspired and transformed.

Happy Birthday, and many happy returns.

Sir Fakayode is President Egbe 

Omo Igbomina