By Eric Elezuo
Hers was the steadfast entry into the diamond cadre, and that was enough to prompt the no-holds-barred soiree put together by her husband to give thanks to God for gracious life still being graciously lived.
She is Mrs Bamidele Abiodun, the ebullient First Lady of Ogun State, and the amiable wife of Governor (Prince) Dapo Abiodun. And she just celebrated 60 eventful years on planet earth. The event, living up to its high billing, drew together the creme de la creme of the society.
Prince Dapo Abiodun did not spare any expense, as he pulled all stops to celebrate the wife of his youth with family members, friends, colleagues from both the political and business circle, well-wishers and the general public in conspicuous attendance.
In flowing tributes to Mrs Abiodun, the Governor, who was all joy, fondly described her as a compassionate, humble and selfless woman, who has devoted her life to serving humanity, and being a solid backbone to her husband in the task of governing Ogun State.
The two-layered event took off with a thanksgiving service held at the Royal Box Event Centre, bringing together an impressive array of spotlessly dressed dignitaries including policy makers and movers and shakers of the socio-economic realities of Nigeria.
The venue told the story of the quality of the event, radiating elegance, class and sophistication, bringing to the consciousness of attendees a festive atmosphere befitting a woman widely admired for her grace, compassion, and commitment to humanitarian service.
The guests, which cut across all strata of human endeavors, arrived in glamorous styles and attire, adding colour, class and splendour to an event that has a dedicated signature of woman, whose milestone achievements reflected in the quality that told the story of her birthday celebration.
Governor Abiodun expressed gratitude to God for His faithfulness in preserving her life and blessing her with the privilege of reaching the milestone age.
The governor paid heartfelt tribute to his wife, applauding her unwavering support, sound judgment, and commitment to their family, which he said have remained invaluable throughout their years together.
He also commended Mrs. Abiodun’s dedication to humanitarian causes, highlighting her advocacy for women, children, and vulnerable members of society. According to him, her numerous interventions have positively impacted countless lives across Ogun State and beyond.
Governor Abiodun noted that the First Lady continues to exemplify the values of kindness, sacrifice, and service, earning admiration and respect from people within and outside the state.
He said, “As we celebrate this significant occasion, I thank Almighty God for His enduring grace and faithfulness over your life. My prayer is that He will continue to bless you with good health, wisdom, abundant grace, and many more years of meaningful service to humanity.”
As the thanksgiving service wound down, a grand reception at the same The Royal Box Event Centre, Cube 65, Victoria Island, Lagos, kick started with popular compere and host, TEE A, anchoring proceedings, delivering quality gestures and utterances that define his creativity, and experience in the industry.
A grand highlight of the star-studded event was the arrival of Afrobeat superstars, Davido, which went ahead to deliver a performance that kept the hall alive and all guests shuffling their feet to beats of renowned importance. Also on the line of performance was the ever ready Veentage Band, who provided evergreen and soul-lifting songs that reminded rhe guests of timeless nature of entertainment.
The celebration also featured cultural displays, inspiring goodwill messages, and moments of thanksgiving, reflecting the celebrant’s deep faith and appreciation for six decades of a life devoted to family, public service, and humanity.
Another highlight of the event was the soulful dance of the celebrant with her husband, the Governor. The couple rekindled the joy and love that have kept them together in the past decades as husband and wife. This was followed with the cutting of the birthday cake by Mrs Abiodun, surrounded by her close family members and other very close associates.
Among the dignitaries, who attended the occasion were the wife of the Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Mrs. Hamzat; Senator Solomon Adeola and his wife; the First Lady of Osun State, Her Excellency Titi Adeleke; Mr. Tayo Ayeni; Mr. Lai Oriowo; Mr. Bayo Fatunsi; Mr. and Mrs. Seni Adetu; Dr. Taiwo Afolabi; and former Ogun State Governor, Chief Olusegun Osoba, alongside several other distinguished guests.
From all of us, we wish Mrs Abiodun a very happy 60th birthday.
Photos: Funmi A. Ilelabayo