A Diamond Jubilee of Grace and Service: Deaconess Adebola Olagunju Celebrates 60 Glorious Years in Grand Style

IBADAN — Life is often described as a fleeting shadow, yet for those who dedicate their days to serving others, it becomes an enduring legacy of light. On Friday, October 2, 2026, the International School Ibadan (ISI) Events Centre at the University of Ibadan was transformed into a haven of gratitude, glitz, and high society as Deaconess Adebola Helen Olagunju celebrated her 60th Diamond Jubilee.

    

The celebrant and her Siblings

The milestone event was not merely a birthday party; it was an emotional and thought-provoking celebration of a matriarch whose life has been a blueprint of faith, resilience, and extraordinary generosity.

A Gathering of Dignitaries and Elite

The grand occasion attracted an impressive array of prominent personalities, technocrats, and community leaders from within and outside Oyo State. 

    

Leading the pack of very important personalities were the celebrant’s siblings, notably the highly respected Ambassador David A. Adejuwon, President of the Hybrid Culture, Technology and Innovation Promotion Initiative (HyCuTIPI). Also gracing the occasion was Mr. Femi Adeyanju, the President of the Irepo Grammar School Old Students Association, Mr & Mrs Sunday Olaniyi Ogunjimi, Engineer Wale Oladeji, Mr Tayo  Kehinde and Mr Ayo Vaughan among the others added to the prestige of an already illustrious guest list. 

A Journey Rooted in Heritage and Hard Work

Behind the radiant smiles and the beautiful purple-and-gold traditional attire of the celebrant lies a profound story of dedication. Born on October 2, 1966, to the family of the late Pa. Moses Adeleke and the late Madam Comfort Yerokun Adejuwon of Sepeteri, Saki, Deaconess Olagunju is the last of nine children. 

  

Her educational trajectory—from Baptist Primary and High Schools in Saki to the Divisional Teachers College in Ijebu-Jesa, and finally the Oyo State College of Education—was driven by a distinct passion for Home Economics. Specializing in Food and Nutrition, she built a formidable catering career that has now spanned almost four decades. 

Today, as an esteemed member of the Association of Professional Food Service Providers of Nigeria (APFSPN) and a caterer at the International School Ibadan (ISI), she has spent her life creating memorable culinary experiences and bringing joy to countless individuals. Her career is a testament to the fact that true greatness is often found in the quiet, consistent service of others.

A Thanksgiving of Deep Spiritual Reflection

The celebration commenced with a deeply moving Thanksgiving Service moderated by Deacon Oyerinde Oyebamiji, with MC Rainbow steering the reception. 

As the congregation lifted their voices to the classic hymn, "Great is Thy Faithfulness," the atmosphere was charged with deep spiritual reflection. The anchor scripture, taken from Psalm 90:1-12, served as a powerful reminder of the brevity of life. The reading culminated in the poignant prayer of Verse 12: "So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom." It was a profound moment that brought many to tears, acknowledging that reaching the milestone of 60 years in health and prosperity is a rare grace that can only be attributed to the Almighty.

Showers of Encomiums and Joyous Festivities

Transitioning into the Reception Party, the mood shifted from solemn thanksgiving to explosive joy. The high point of the afternoon featured deeply emotional testimonies from family members, colleagues, and friends. Speaker after speaker took the microphone to paint a picture of a woman who is a true pillar of support, a disciplinarian clothed in love, and a professional who leaves a touch of excellence on everything she handles. 

The celebrant, flanked by her adoring family and friends, later took to the dance floor with a special celebratory dance, followed by the cutting of her magnificent birthday cake.

A Heartfelt Royal Appreciation

In a touching message of gratitude distributed to the guests, Deaconess Olagunju and her family expressed their profound joy to everyone who braved the times to honor her. 

"We pray that the Lord will continue to increase you on all sides. His shield of protection shall protect and keep you and your family as you journey back to your various destinations."

As the music faded and guests departed the prestigious University of Ibadan campus, one truth remained evident: Deaconess Adebola Helen Olagunju has not just spent 60 years on earth; she has invested them into the hearts of humanity. 

Ayekooto Media NG joins the host of heaven, family, and well-wishers to wish this woman of virtue a Happy 60th Birthday and many more decades of overflowing grace.

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David Alani Ige (The Scribe)

Publisher & Editor-in-Chief, Ayekooto Media

David Alani Ige is a seasoned journalist, strategic analyst, and the visionary publisher of Ayekooto Media. With a relentless commitment to archiving Nigeria's political realities and delivering the unvarnished truth, he has built a formidable platform for deep-dive reportage and editorial excellence. He is widely known by his readers and peers as "The Scribe".