The Executive Governor of Osun State, Senator Ademola Adeleke has expressed deep sadness over the news of the passing of Ruth Elton, the oldest missionary to Nigeria, noting that the British-born Nigerian lived a life of service and immense contributions to humanity.
In a statement signed by the Governor’s Spokesperson,Olawale Rasheed noted that the Governor Adeleke recognises the deceased decades of dedication to building faiths and empowering the society, recalled that since 1973 when the late Elton arrived Nigeria with her father, Granville Elton, she dedicated herself to bridging the gaps in gospel and fighting medical emergencies through her grassroot health initiatives.
The Governor acknowledges the significant decision of the late missionary in renouncing her British citizenship for Nigeria citizenship, underscoring not just her faith in the country, but deep love she has for the people and cultures.
“I am devastated by the news of the passing of Ruth Elton, the woman widely acknowledged as the oldest missionary to Nigeria. Although she passed on at a ripe age of 91 years, but knowing her contributions over the years, I cannot but feel the pain of such a loss,” Governor Adeleke was quoted as saying in a condolences message.
“From 1973 when she arrived Nigeria with her father, Granville Elton, Ruth Elton has served the Nigerian people with unfailing dedication, contributing not just to the spread of gospel, but also joining efforts to fight many health scourges in communities.
“Her absence will be a heavy burden to us in Osun where she breath her last on earth but we will be consoled by the legacy of her impacts and the everlasting honour that comes with her contributions to the society.
Governor Adeleke prays for the repose of Ruth Elton’s soul just as he urges the community of faithfuls she left behind to be guided by her life of relentless services to humanity and continue to honour her name by building on her works which revolves around the people.
