Author: Gabriel ADESOJI
As the sun sets on an illustrious career, the Ekiti State Civil Service bids a fond farewell to a true luminary, Engr. Fatukasi S. Tope. With unwavering dedication and an unparalleled commitment to excellence, Engr. Fatukasi has left an indelible mark on the landscape of Ekiti State, both literally and figuratively.
Born on July 17th in the early 1970s to the esteemed family of Pa Joseph Dada and Mrs. E. Fatukasi, Engr. Fatukasi’s journey began with humble beginnings in Ise-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria. Driven by a passion for knowledge and a desire to serve, he embarked on a path of educational excellence, honing his skills and cementing his reputation as a distinguished engineer.
Engr. Fatukasi’s educational journey is a testament to his perseverance and determination. He commenced his elementary education at the Our Saviour’s Anglican Primary School in Owena, Idanre/Ifedore Local Government, Ondo State. Thereafter, he attended the Oke-Osun Muslim Grammar School in Osogbo before progressing to the prestigious Imade College Owo (Great IMACO) in Ondo State for his secondary education.
Recognizing the potential within, Engr. Fatukasi joined the Ondo State Civil Service in 1989 as a Road Labourer, where his exceptional performance caught the attention of the Military in Governor’s Office. In 1991, he was seconded to the Signal Section, preparing for the handover to civilian administration.
Undeterred, Engr. Fatukasi continued his educational pursuits, studying Civil Engineering at the Osun State College of Technology, Esa-Oke, and the Federal Polytechnic, Ado-Ekiti, on a self-sponsored basis. His commitment to professional development led him to obtain a Postgraduate Diploma and a Master’s degree in Civil Engineering from the University of Ado-Ekiti, now the Ekiti State University, in 2010 and 2015, respectively. Further solidifying his credentials, he pursued advanced studies at the prestigious University of KwaZulu-Natal (Howard Campus) in South Africa.
Engr. Fatukasi’s professional accomplishments are a testament to his exceptional abilities. He is a Fellow of both the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) and the Nigerian Institution of Civil Engineers (NICE), and a COREN Registered Engineer. He has served the NSE, Ado-Ekiti branch, in various capacities, including as the Public Relations Officer from 2010 to 2012.
Engr. Fatukasi’s impact on the Ekiti State landscape is undeniable. He was the driving force behind the opening and construction of the Awo-Ara Road, a project that overcame the challenges of a highly undulating and difficult topography. His expertise was also instrumental in the design and supervision of the Fayose Market, which was situated in a swamped location.
As a pioneer member, Engr. Fatukasi played a crucial role in the design and supervision of the ongoing Ekiti State Cargo Airport project. Additionally, he has been instrumental in the rehabilitation and construction of numerous major and minor roads throughout Ekiti State, serving as the State Engineer under the leadership of former Governor Dr. John Kayode Fayemi and the current Governor, Mr. Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji.
Engr. Fatukasi’s contributions extend beyond his professional accomplishments. He is a dedicated minister of God, happily married, and blessed with children. His humble and approachable nature has earned him the admiration and respect of all who have had the privilege of working with him.
As Engr. Fatukasi embarks on his well-deserved retirement, the Ekiti State Civil Service and the broader community bid him a heartfelt farewell. His legacy of excellence, dedication, and service will undoubtedly continue to inspire generations to come. As I joined his friends, colleagues and Family to celebrate Engr. Fatukasi’s remarkable achievements and express our sincere gratitude for his unwavering commitment to the betterment of our beloved State.
Gabriel ADESOJI (ANGELGABBY)
S.A New Media to Ekiti State Governor