FOREWORD

“Seest thou a man diligent in his service, he shall stand before kings; he shall not stand before mean men.”
— Proverbs 22:29

It is with great pleasure that I accepted the invitation to write the Foreword to this concise yet impressive biography and collection of tributes in honor of Alhaji Amusa Oladimeji Gbadamosi Otiti on the occasion of his 90th birthday anniversary, notwithstanding the fact that I have also contributed a tribute to him elsewhere in this volume.

Amusa, as I fondly call him, is the very embodiment of what is meant by diligence. As this biography aptly demonstrates, he emerged from a relatively poor and polygamous family background. Having escaped the hostile machinations and intrigues of one of his father’s competing wives, he was compelled at an early age to fend for himself. In the process, he discovered that the most reliable currency for success in a challenging world was diligence in whatever task one undertook. This principle became the defining hallmark of his entire life.

His commitment to diligence, however, was never pursued at the expense of healthy human relationships. His humility, friendliness, and approachable disposition earned him numerous friends and well-wishers who supported and encouraged his progress from one stage of his career to another, creating a steady upward trajectory in his professional life.

Indeed, it would appear that fate had destined him to become a “Central Bank man.” Having been encouraged to study Secretaryship and Banking at a time when Nigeria was still under British colonial rule and monetary policy was overseen from the Bank of England in London, the prospect of a Nigerian becoming either Governor or Deputy Governor of a Nigerian Central Bank seemed remote, if not improbable. Yet, such was the pace of change during the final years of colonial administration that within two years of returning home from his studies abroad, Amusa had become one of the pioneer staff members of the newly established Central Bank of Nigeria.

Amusa’s life, however, was never confined solely to the world of central banking. He remained socially engaged and actively involved in various spheres of socio-economic development across the country. These engagements propelled him into leadership positions within both his professional field of banking and management, as well as in community, religious, and civic organizations.

He rose to great prominence within the Ansar-Ud-Deen Society, driven by his firm conviction that there is no contradiction between unwavering adherence to the Islamic faith and a strong foundation in Western education. His remarkable life and career stand as compelling evidence of the validity of that belief.

Even more significant are the fifty-seven heartfelt testimonials contained in this publication, each attesting to the positive impact Amusa has had on countless lives. The penultimate chapter of this biography, dedicated to tributes, vividly illustrates the truth of the biblical passage quoted above. It shows Amusa standing not before mean men, but before many who occupy positions akin to kings.

Among those who pay tribute to him are a former Head of State, a Christian Archbishop, a traditional ruler, ambassadors, distinguished professionals, and individuals from diverse walks of life. Each acknowledges the profound influence he has exercised through his generosity, wisdom, and willingness to assist others. The tributes extend even to his grandchildren, who regard him as an exemplary role model worthy of emulation.

As Amusa celebrates the venerable age of ninety years, he can look back with satisfaction and confidence, knowing that he has fought a good fight, finished the race, and kept the faith. We join his family, friends, and admirers in wishing him a happy birthday, continued good health, and many more years of fulfillment as the Almighty may graciously grant him.

May he continue to enjoy peace, happiness, and divine blessings.

Professor Akin L. Mabogunje, CON, NNOM, HLR
October 2017