-Uncle Tej is deserving of a National Honour -Aregbesola
From Richard Akintade, Osogbo
Friends, family, mentees, associates and the alumni of Research and Marketing Services Limited on Saturday converged on the Lagos Country Club, Ikeja to celebrate a doyen of marketing research, Mr Kareem Tejumola.
The event, which marked the reunion of the alumni of Research and Marketing Service Limited was a forum for those who have crossed paths with Mr Tejumola in business, work and private life.
In their speeches of commendation, Ms Funmi Omitoju, Mrs Stella Obanla, Mr Kunle Arofin, Mr Emmanuel Maduka, among others described the honouree as a resilient, courageous, bold and astute leader who, through his hardwork and dedication, has shaped many lives and generations in the marketing industry.
They also saluted his strong work ethic, relentless passion for excellence and strong commitment to the ideals of professionalism with which he built RMS to become the leading marketing research brand in Nigeria.
“Uncle TEJ is one man in many parts. He is a leader, a builder and a strong believer in the strong work ethics of professionalism, courage and determination. His dexterous ways of managing people and his clients paved the way for him to become an icon, pathfinder and role model in the industry.
“You have shaped the industry. You have shaped marketing in not just Nigeria, but Africa as a whole. You have also worked through life as an uncommon achiever. Those attributes define you and that is why we are glad to celebrate you today,” the speakers noted.
They also stressed that Tejumola’s impact in their lives birthed the establishment of more than 28 thriving marketing research companies in Nigeria, today.
Addressing the gathering, the National Secretary of African Democratic Congress, ADC, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola saluted the legacy of Mr Tejumola, which, according to him, has been momentous, inspiring and visionary.
Recalling his journey of companionship with the honouree dating back to over six decades, Aregbesola called on his protégés to preserve his achievements by nominating him for National Honours, which is deserving of his legacy and imprints in the world of marketing.
The Osun State former governor stated that, “Whatever is said about Uncle Tejumola today did not start in adulthood. It was what shaped his existence and humanity as a young man. I am proud to say I am one of those he inspired and shaped his future.
“With him, everything is fun. He has always supported my political aspirations. For someone who built people who have built over 28 leading marketing companies in Nigeria, he deserves national recognition and I know that with all of your support and concerted efforts, it will be achievable,” the former minister of interior said.
Responding, the honouree fondly called Uncle Tej described the honour as a mark of fulfilment.
Expressing gratitude to RMS Alumni and others who celebrated him, he urged them to continue to live a life of legacy, impact and transformative leadership.
“I feel excited, I feel fulfilled. Not too many people stay alive to witness such an honour, so it is a legacy and I feel very happy about it.
“I feel like a proud father looking at his children. What I see before me is doubts turned into greatness. I challenge you all to continuously make impact and transform the world. I am happy to see that you all have become brand leaders in your field. Please do more. Doing more will make me more fulfilled,” Tejumola noted.
The event featured presentation of awards and gifts to the honouree, among others.
