The Director-General of the Nigerian Technical Aid Corps (NTAC), Rt. Hon. Yusuf Buba Yakub, has described his predecessor, the late Dr. Pius Olakunle Osunyikanmi, as a man of peace who made significant contributions towards advancing the ideals and objectives of the 39-year-old Agency, despite the challenges encountered during his two-term tenure.
The NTAC boss expressed sadness over the demise of Dr. Osunyikanmi at a relatively young age, noting that he still had so much to offer the nation and humanity.
He observed that the late politician, scholar and technocrat would be remembered for his contributions to Ondo State, Nigeria and the international community, as well as for his gentle disposition, friendship, goodwill and support for those whose paths crossed his.
While commiserating with the immediate family, relatives and the people of Ondo State over the painful loss, Buba described the deceased as a man whose life positively impacted many people and brought smiles to countless faces.
He urged the bereaved family and all those mourning his passing to find strength and comfort in God, accepting the loss as part of the inevitable realities of human existence and the divine will of the Almighty.
The Director-General further encouraged the family and close associates to draw comfort from the fact that the deceased lived a purposeful life, characterised by productive engagements, meaningful accomplishments and exemplary service to humanity and his Creator. He expressed the hope that the family would find solace in their faith and the promise of reunion on the Resurrection Morning.
Dr. Osunyikanmi, a former Presidential Adviser and immediate past Director-General of NTAC, passed away in Abuja on 24 October 2026, at the age of 55.
Buba, who paid a condolence visit to the Abuja residence of the deceased on Friday, met with members of the bereaved family, friends, business associates and other sympathisers. On behalf of himself, the Management and staff of the Nigerian Technical Aid Corps, he conveyed heartfelt condolences to the family over the loss of their beloved patriarch.
Dr. Pius Olakunle Osunyikanmi served as Director-General of the Nigerian Technical Aid Corps for two consecutive terms. Before his appointment, he had served as a Commissioner in Ondo State and later as Special Adviser to former President Goodluck Jonathan on International Relations. He was subsequently appointed Director-General of NTAC and reappointed by former President Muhammadu Buhari in 2018 for a second and final term, which ended in 2023.
Dr. Osunyikanmi will be remembered for his contributions to the growth and development of the Nigerian Technical Aid Corps, particularly his efforts towards advancing Nigeria’s soft power diplomacy and strengthening South-South Cooperation.
He was aged 55.
Ojo Adetoun Olubunmi,anipr
Head, Information and Public Relations,
Nigerian Technical Aid Corps (NTAC)
31 October 2026
