President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan has described the death of Mrs. Sheila Solarin, widow of renowned educationist and social crusader, Dr. Tai Solarin, as a big loss to the nation.
The President said Mrs. Solarin’s death has left a big vacuum in the educational system of the country as the nation would miss the unparalleled commitment, discipline, expertise, prowess and astuteness she brought to bear on the teaching profession and school administration.
“Her remarkably long period in running the popular Mayflower School, Ikenne and teaching English in that school, made her to leave an indelible impact on generations of students who today occupy prominent positions in all sectors of the Nigerian society,” he said.
President Jonathan, who described Mrs. Solarin as a great soul, highly respected mother, peace-maker and community worker, commended her uncommon courage and patriotism in making Nigeria her permanent home before and after the demise of her husband.
The President noted that “her decision as carry on with the legacy of her late husband even up to a very advanced age, speaks a lot about her indomitable spirit and a great lesson for others to emulate.”
President Jonathan while commiserating with the Solarin family, the people and government of Ogun State and all students of Mayflower School, also implored them to keep Mrs. Solarin’s humanitarian work and other legacies alive in the interest of the nation and posterity.
A former Governor of Abia State, Dr. Orji Uzor Kalu, has also described the demise of Mrs. Solarin as great loss the nation.
In his tribute, Kalu said: “Mama’s place will be difficult to fill in her community.”
He stated that Mrs. Solarin was an educationist of repute who contributed to the educational upliftment of Nigeria through her school, Mayflower School, Ikenne, Ogun State.
He added: “She was a woman of virtue who believed in fairness and justice irrespective of race, religion, sex and age, which is obvious in her marriage to a Nigerian, Dr. Tai Solarin.”
While condoling with her family, government and good people of Ogun state, Kalu said Nigerians should take solace in the fact that she lived a rewarding life worthy of emulation as evident in her humanitarian services.
He prayed to God to grant her eternal rest.
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