NOJEEM JIMOH AT 74: Sarafa Isola hails ‘exceptional egbon, dependable confidant’
By KEMI KASUMU
“For me, however, this is more than a celebration of age. It is an opportunity to celebrate an elder brother, a trusted confidant and a man whose life has been defined by wisdom, humility, integrity and a deep commitment to the wellbeing of others,” Isola said.
Former Nigerian High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Ambassador Sarafa Tunji Isola, has celebrated a veteran journalist Alhaji Nojeem Jimoh on his 74th birthday, describing him as an “exceptional Egbon, a dependable confidant and a brother” whose life has impacted many people.
In a tribute to mark the milestone, Isola said Jimoh’s significance went beyond his accomplishments, stressing that his greatest contributions were reflected in the lives he had touched, the counsel he had offered and the relationships he had sustained.
“For me, however, this is more than a celebration of age. It is an opportunity to celebrate an elder brother, a trusted confidant and a man whose life has been defined by wisdom, humility, integrity and a deep commitment to the wellbeing of others,” Isola said.
The former envoy described Jimoh as an “Egbon in the truest sense of the word,” praising his willingness to provide guidance, encouragement and truthful counsel when needed.
Isola also highlighted Jimoh’s discretion, sincerity and maturity as qualities that had earned him the trust of many.
“He listens carefully, weighs issues thoughtfully and offers counsel without seeking to impose himself. His words are often measured, but they carry the weight of experience and wisdom,” he said.
According to Isola, Jimoh’s 74 years represented values that remained relevant in today’s society, including loyalty, service, compassion and responsibility.
He particularly praised Jimoh’s ability to combine firmness with warmth, noting that “he is a man who can disagree without becoming disagreeable and correct without humiliating.”
Isola said he had personally benefited from Jimoh’s friendship and counsel, recalling that their conversations had provided “clarity where there was confusion, reassurance where there was uncertainty and direction where difficult choices had to be made.”
He prayed that Almighty Allah would continue to bless the celebrant with sound health, peace of mind, wisdom and renewed strength, while granting him many more years in the service of humanity.
“May the years ahead bring you greater fulfilment, joy and tranquillity,” Isola said, praying that the positive seeds Jimoh had sown in people’s lives would continue to produce abundant fruits.
The former High Commissioner concluded by describing Jimoh as “an exceptional Egbon, a dependable confidant and a brother whose friendship I deeply value,” while praying for his continued good health and enduring peace.
Ambassador Sarafa Tunji Isola, OFR, served as Nigeria’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom from 2021 to 2023.
