Life presents us with several remarkable moments, and the most adored moments among them all, are those spent with loved ones. It was the realization of this fact that made the 2-day celebration of Senator Fatimat Raji-Rasaki’s 60th birthday all the more special. It was a moment of tremendous joy for the sexagenarian mother of five considering that not everyone is privileged to attain this age.
On that day, unquantifiable happiness filled her heart, as was expressed in the ceaseless charming smiles that permanently lingered across her face. This was because the more her life was praised and celebrated, she continued to thank Almighty Allah for His grace.
The first day of the ceremony was a prayer session which was held at the celebrant’s residence in Victoria Island, Lagos. The prayer was conducted by Imam Shafihi Alaye.
The celebrant, who was beautifully dressed in a silver traditional attire, enjoyed the session as the clerics wished her sound health, long life and many more years of celebration.
During the sermon, the Imam reviewed Senator Fatimat Raji-Rasaki’s contributions to Islam and how unique she had been in all spheres of life. Prayers were also said for her husband, Retired General Raji Alagbe Arowolo Rasaki (CON).
The Civic Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos was venue of the reception, it was filled to capacity, with Yvent Kouture taking great care to beautifully decorate the place. The entrance was grand just as Magna Event led by Yinka Oke Owo had planned.
The remarkable ceremony started with the proverbial “red” carpet, which came in diverse colours of Purple, Gold and White. Also, the venue was lit up with classy chandeliers which made the venue exquisite and created an atmosphere of love and happiness.
With guests gaily dressed and seated, Senator Fatimat Rajii-Rasaki, walked in beautifully dressed in a lovely green and silver enhancements.
As a serving Senator, the reception was naturally an assemblage of the political top shots. Apart from the distinguished dignitaries at the prayer session who also turned up at the reception. These were: Ronke Ayuba, Senate President, Abubakar Bukola Saraki; Senator Uche Ekwunife, Oyo State Governor and his wife, Minister of Solid Minerals, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, former Speaker of Ogun State House of Assembly, Mrs. Titi Oseni, Chairman, Senate Committee on Downstream Petroleum Industry, Chief Felix O. Fagbohungbe and Senator Dino Melaye.
As guests stepped into the lovely venue, they were warmly ushered into the hall and enthralled by soothing jazzy tunes courtesy of Yemi Sax and Aristors Band.
In a section of the hall stood the celebrant’s birthday cake, which was itself an artistic expression and the embodiment of elegance. The four tier cake was nicely crafted in white with crystals on it. The cake had the shape of a royal castle and held quite an attraction for all. It was a beauty to behold!
They say masters of ceremonies (MC) make events, and the saying proved correct, SACO, a rising star anchored the event. The multi linguist proved to be professional as he played his part with peerless precision as proceeding kicked off when Mrs Eyitayo said the opening prayers.
In her opening remarks, Adeola, the celebrant’s daughter, described her mother as a wonderful human being and true mother who was always there for them.
In the “let’s tell a little story” session, a lot was said about the celebrant by family, friends, children and colleagues.
From the good to the downright humorous, the no-holds-barred tributes and remarks exposed the real Senator Fatimat Raji-Rasaki. Indeed, some remarks were vivid descriptions of the humane side of the celebrant’s life, which many never knew. She was described as a disciplinarian par excellence, hardworking woman, a woman who cherishes the simple things of life; a self-assured and confident woman who considered no one a threat to her mission in life.
The event was also enlivened with an enchanting dance performance by Apex Dance Crew. Truly, it was a turbo-charged affair from start to finish.
In his tribute, the Senate President described the celebrant as a woman of strong character whose political knowledge has seen her soar.
“For all this period I have known Fatimat Raji-Rasaki, She has been very vibrant and has been of great service of Nigeria.
The cutting of the cake was officiated by a close friend and First Lady of Oyo State, Mrs. Florence Ajumobi. The exercise was brilliantly, done at the count of S-U-C-C-E-S-S.
The celebrant, now decked in a well-designed white grown with diamonds, appreciated friends, family and loved ones who contributed to the success of the event. She specially appreciated her husband, who she described as her pillar of support.
The vote of thanks was delivered by Mr. Muritala Rasaki. From then on, guests joined the celebrant on the dance floor and it was jollity all the way. It was really a great way to welcome Senator Fatimat Raji Rasaki into the sexagenarian club.
