DAILY COURIER - Aare Hon. Tolu Bankole stands as a remarkable beacon of resilience, dedication, and vision within the All Progressives Congress (APC) and, indeed, across Nigeria. As the National Leader for Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) in the APC, he has made extraordinary strides in advocating for an inclusive political landscape where the voices of people with disabilities are no longer muted but amplified.
Working closely with Aare Hon. Bankole has revealed the strength of his character and his unwavering commitment to the cause he represents.
He is not only a leader but also a visionary with an intrinsic understanding of the needs, challenges, and aspirations of the PWD community. His leadership approach is hands-on, filled with empathy and a passion that ignites change. Through his work, he’s reshaping the narrative around disability in Nigeria, pushing for policies and practices that foster empowerment rather than dependence.
Aare Hon. Tolu Bankole's journey is distinguished not only by his achievements in public service but also by his extensive experience in private enterprise. As a seasoned entrepreneur, he has excelled in diverse sectors, including agriculture and oil and gas, where he has created jobs, driven innovation, and contributed to economic growth. This entrepreneurial background provides him with a practical understanding of the challenges and opportunities that businesses face in Nigeria, making him an asset in public policy development.
His leadership qualities were evident early on as he served as a student union president at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, which laid a strong foundation for his public career. His roles as Majority Leader in the Ogun State House of Assembly and Senior Special Adviser to the Ogun State Governor are testaments to his versatility and ability to lead across different spheres. These experiences have enriched his perspective, enabling him to champion policies that foster inclusivity and drive development across the board.
On a personal level, Aare Hon. Tolu Bankole embodies humility and integrity. His life’s work is a testament to his belief that leadership is about service—service to his community, to his party, and to the nation. Even amidst challenges, his optimism is contagious, and his steadfast resolve to create a more inclusive Nigeria is evident in every initiative he undertakes.
Looking ahead, Aare Hon. Tolu Bankole’s exemplary leadership makes a strong case for his consideration in higher state and national public roles in his home state of Ogun. His track record demonstrates that he possesses the wisdom, compassion, and strategic foresight needed to serve at a broader capacity, bringing tangible progress to both his state and the nation. As someone who has not only championed the cause of PWDs but has also effectively bridged gaps across diverse groups, Hon. Bankole has the potential to transform public service in Ogun and beyond.
His leadership could inspire an era of inclusive policies and accessible opportunities, setting new standards in governance that empower every citizen, regardless of ability, to contribute to Nigeria’s progress.
As he celebrates his birthday today, we not only honour his years but also celebrate a life that has been dedicated to the upliftment of others.
Aare Hon. Tolu Bankole’s impact on PWDs and his contribution to a more inclusive APC remain indelible. May this new year of his life bring even greater strength, wider opportunities, and more accomplishments as he continues to champion the cause of PWDs across Nigeria.
• 'Seun Ibukun-Oni, the publisher of Daily Courier writes from Abuja can be reached on (pstseuncid@gmail.com)