Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has paid a heartfelt tribute to his wife, Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun, as she celebrated her 60th birthday, describing her as a woman of virtue, compassion, unwavering faith and a dependable partner whose support has been instrumental to his personal life and public service.
Speaking during a special thanksgiving service held on Sunday at the Government House Chapel, Oke-Igbein, Abeokuta, the governor thanked God for preserving their family throughout nearly four decades of marriage and for sustaining them in their journey together.
He praised the First Lady for her steadfast commitment to keeping the home front stable while he focuses on governing Ogun State, noting that her love, dedication and sacrifices have been invaluable.
Reflecting on their journey, Governor Abiodun expressed gratitude for their children and God’s continued faithfulness, saying the milestone served as a reminder of the need to remain accountable to God.
Recalling how their relationship began about 39 years ago, he said they never imagined they would one day become the First Family of Ogun State.
“When I remember that our paths crossed about 39 years ago, I cannot but thank God for preserving us. At the time, I was in Ife while she was at the University of Ibadan. I used to drive to Ibadan to see her. Neither of us knew that God would one day grant us the privilege of serving as the First Family of Ogun State,” the governor said.
Responding, Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun described her Diamond Jubilee as more than a personal celebration, saying it represented a renewed divine call to serve humanity with greater dedication.
She reaffirmed her commitment to expanding her humanitarian initiatives and positively impacting more lives across Ogun State, while thanking God for His grace and guidance over the past six decades.
Several dignitaries also paid glowing tributes to the First Lady during the thanksgiving service.
Speaker of the Ogun State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Oludaisi Elemide, described her as a devoted wife and a dependable pillar of support to Governor Abiodun, noting that successful leadership often thrives on the strength of a committed spouse.
The All Progressives Congress (APC) House of Representatives candidate for Remo Federal Constituency and former Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hon. Funmi Afuwape, praised Mrs. Abiodun’s humility and passion for empowering others, saying her mentorship has inspired many.
On behalf of the state’s Permanent Secretaries, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Adebimpe Folusho Obienu, commended the First Lady’s compassion towards women, children and vulnerable residents, describing her as a model of selfless service.
Mrs. Peace Taiwo, wife of the former Chief of Staff to the Governor, also lauded the celebrant, describing her as kind-hearted, calm and gracious.
In his sermon, President of the Ogun Baptist Conference and Chairman of the Management Committee of the Government House Chapel, Rev. Oyewale Oyeniyi, reminded worshippers that the true essence of life is to worship God and serve humanity.
He urged Mrs. Abiodun to remain steadfast in her faith and continue her humanitarian service beyond her husband’s tenure as governor, stressing that a life dedicated to God and service leaves a lasting legacy.
