••• Engr. Umar Ganduje commend his kindness, mentorship, professionalism
The Ilorin community in Abuja hosted a grand celebration to honor the meritorious service and retirement of Engr. Sulaiman Bolakale Kawu Agaka, a distinguished figure in Nigeria’s power sector and the Dan-Iyan of Ilorin Emirate.
The event, held at a prestigious venue in the federal capital territory, brought together colleagues, community members, and dignitaries from al walks of life to commend Engr. Kawu’s remarkable contributions to the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) and his exemplary leadership.
In a video made available to this medium.
In his keynote address, the Managing Director of REA, Engr. Abba Aliyu Abubakar, described Engr. Kawu as a towering figure in leadership, whose impact transcends his official duties. “Engr. Sulaiman Bolakale Kawu is a force to reckon with in leadership across all ramifications.
Many of us are here to celebrate his retirement, but for me, he has not retired, nor has he tired. Unless we can find a way to transfer all the knowledge in his head to mine, he cannot retire,” Engr. Abubakar said, drawing applause from the audience.
He further praised Engr. Kawu’s unparalleled dedication to works and humanity while also disclosing that the Dan-Iyan of Ilorin was so generous that there was a time he gifted him money, noting, “Nobody in the history of the Rural Electrification Board has used their personal resources like Engr. Kawu did.
He committed himself, his money, and his resources to every task assigned to him. There’s no challenge you place before him that he cannot solve. We need more people like him in this sector.” Engr. Abubakar concluded by expressing gratitude for Engr. Kawu’s selfless service and enduring legacy.
Mrs. Omodara, a colleague at REA, shared her personal reflections, highlighting Engr. Kawu’s mentorship and kindness. “Working with Engr. Kale Kawu made things easy for me. I told him I wanted to learn how he treats people, his kindness, and his hospitality. In the short time we spent together, I learned so much. This evening, I want to say, ‘Daddy, Ese’ (thank you),” she said, visibly emotional
Engr. Umar Abdullah Ganduje, the Executive Director of Technical Services at REA, also paid tribute, emphasizing Engr. Kawu’s professionalism and collaborative spirit. “Though we were in different departments initially, I always heard of his good work. Later, when he was Director of Projects, I witnessed it firsthand. I’m not saying this because his family or kinsmen are here; the truth must be told. Even after his retirement, I still call him for advice because he’s a versatile man and a team player. Beyond the office, our relationship is just beginning,” Engr. Ganduje added.
The colorful event played host to prominent Nigerians, major nigerian contractors, local and foreign industrialists, associates, sons and daughters of Ilorin Emirates, well-wishers from Kwara state and across the country, job beneficiaries, family and friends.