Prominent Nigerian leaders, politicians, and diplomats gathered at the NUJ Press Centre in Iyaganku, Ibadan, to honour Mrs Moyomade Bolatito Ojo-Lanre at a colourful dual event marking her birthday and retirement from active service. The occasion served as a tribute to ojo-lanre’s steadfast home anchor, while celebrating a stellar career that leaves a lasting footprint across Oyo State education.
The lively pen-down celebration attracted prominent figures from politics, academia, entertainment, and the media. Guests took turns to praise Mrs Ojo-Lanre for her discipline, warm spirit, and decades of devotion to shaping young minds as a respected Ibadan retired Principal.
Eminent Dignitaries Praise Ojo-Lanre’s Family
Among the guests was Senator Abdulfatai Omotayo Buhari, who spoke warmly about the celebrant and described the family as one deserving of public honour.
Senator Buhari noted that his high regard for Ambassador Wale Ojo-Lanre, Esq., prompted him to adjust his personal travel schedule to attend. He told the gathering:
“I had already made travel arrangements before learning about the event, but I had to alter my ticket and schedule in order to be physically present.”
He added that such decisions reflect the true value of long-standing friendship and loyalty. He praised Mrs Ojo-Lanre for her successful career and for offering the steady home foundation that allowed her husband to thrive in journalism, law, public service, and tourism.
Tributes to a Pillar of Support in Oyo State Education
Former Nigerian Ambassador to the Philippines, Ambassador Yemi Farounbi, paid an emotional tribute to the celebrant. Describing her as much more than a wife, Farounbi commended her for acting as a mother, sister, and dependable pillar to her entire family. He observed:
“Behind many successful public figures are spouses who make enormous sacrifices away from public attention.”
He added that Mrs Ojo-Lanre deserved full recognition for sustaining her home while building an enviable professional record of her own.
Mrs Toyin Adaramodu, wife of Senator Yemi Adaramodu, lauded the celebrant’s humility and moral strength. She highlighted her life as a clear proof of the vital roles women play in nurturing younger generations through mentorship and formal instruction.
Popular actor Yomi Fash-Lanso described Mrs Ojo-Lanre as a true and dependable wife — an “Iyawo gidi”. He noted:
Reaching the pinnacle of her profession as a school Principal while sustaining a strong family was itself worthy of celebration.
Honouree’s Rise as a Leading Ibadan Retired Principal
Also speaking, Prof. Babalola Wasiu Adeyemo, President of Hotel Management and Tourism at Atiba University, noted that education remains the strongest tool for social progress. He pointed out that her steady rise from classroom teacher to administrative head showed persistence and skill.
Mr Ayo Ogundele, President of the Oyo State Hoteliers Association, noted that the large turnout reflected the goodwill built by the family over the years.
In a moving family tribute, Bukky Ojo-Lanre, Esq., described her mother as an exceptional parent whose philosophy rests on three firm pillars: discipline, education, and strong moral values. She stressed that her mother never compromised on proper upbringing, ensuring her children built lives on solid foundations.
A Lasting Legacy Beyond the Pen-Down Celebration
Mrs Ojo-Lanre never allowed family duties to stall her personal growth. After earning her initial degree in Chemistry Education from Adeyemi College of Education, Ondo, she returned to university years later, earning a Master’s Degree in Educational Psychology from the University of Ibadan in 2016.
She rose through the teaching ranks from Apata Grammar School to finish her career as Principal at Oyalami Community Grammar School, Orita Challenge, Ibadan, retiring in 2026.
The event featured music, dancing, and heartfelt tributes. Beyond marking the end of a public career, the gathering stood as a proof of family unity, personal growth, and decades of selfless service to the community.
Also present at the historic event were the Oyo State NUJ chairma, Comrade Abas Akeem, and his excos; Mr and Mrs Funsho Fafowora, Omoo Kunle Olatunji,; Magaji Adewole; Mogaji Cosmos Oni, and Ambassador Olayinka Agboola, publisher of PMParrot News, among others.
