By Ruth Akpan Photos: Ken Ehimen
The ancient city of Ibadan, Oyo State erupted in jollity when the Founder/CEO of Idera De Foundation (a foundation aimed at providing support through vocational training, scholarship schemes, welfare programmes and healthcare services for the less privileged and people living with disabilities), Ayaba Olayinka Mutiat Ladoja, celebrated her 70th birthday.
Chief (Mrs) Ladoja is the wife of the former Governor of Oyo State, who is presently the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rasheed Adewolu Ladoja. She is also the Maye Iyalode of Ibadanland and the Ambassador for the Oyo State Agency for the control of AIDS.
The birthday celebration which was anchored by the duo of MC Alariwo and Kukoyi was held at the Sunlight Royal Event Center, Ring Road, Ibadan where the high class of Nigerians that cut across politics, business, tradition and royalty assembled to celebrate a woman of substance.
The event started with the majestic entry of the celebrant accompanied by her children and friends as she made her way to her royal seat after exchanging pleasantries with guests. The opening prayer was said in both the Christian and Islamic way by Funmi Aragbaye and Prince Abdul Ganiu respectively, setting the tone for the business of the day.
As goodwill messages ensued, various speakers took turns to speak glowingly about her. She was described as generous, a woman of treasure and substance, a role model to other women, an exemplary leader and a pillar of support.
In his goodwill message, the Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde appreciated God for the life of the celebrant and for making his path cross with that of the celebrant.
“Chief(Mrs) Ladoja has over the years, been at the forefront, supporting and raising political giants. She is a role model to many female politicians across the country, an exemplary leader and a pride to motherhood.
“Mama Ladoja is a great mother and supporter, a philanthropist who has been a source of joy to countless orphaned and physically challenged children for decades.
“I pray that God grants you long life in good health to continue in your acts of kindness and to make meaningful impact in nurturing men and women to greatness”, Governor Makinde said.
The highpoint of the event was the cutting of the 70th birthday cake by the celebrant flanked by Governor Makinde, Chief(Mrs) Nike Akande, Hajia Bintu Mogaji and Raji Rasaki.
Queen of Juju music, Queen Ayotunde Balogun and DJ Sexy were on ground to entertain guests as they savoured delicious delicacies from Taora_events and choice beverages from Sweetchills 1.
The lively affair was attended by the Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, Chief(Mrs) Nike Akande, Hajia Bintu Mogaji Tinubu, Former Military Administrator, Raji Rasaki, Oba Francis Olusola Alao and wife, Olori Olusola Adedoyin Alao, Segun Ezekiel fatoye among others.
In commemoration of her 70th birthday, Ayaba Ladoja donated over N2 million in cash and several million worth of items to at least 16 orphanages and care homes for Persons Living With Disabilities (PLWD).