In commemoration of her 75th birthday, astute businesswoman and philanthropist, Apostle Folorunso Alakija, presented six books on marriage, relationships, faith and Christian living, saying the publications were written to preserve lessons from decades of ministry and leadership for future generations.

The books were presented during a thanksgiving service attended by former Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo (SAN), Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Olayemi Cardoso, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, former First Lady Aisha Buhari, Chairman of United Bank for Africa, Tony Elumelu, family members, ministry leaders, business associates and other invited guests.

Rather than serving as a celebration of literary achievement, the presentation formed one of the highlights of the thanksgiving service, with reviewers describing the books as practical guides drawn from Scripture and lived experience to address issues affecting marriages, families and Christian living.

The six books are, Still in Love at 80 and Beyond: Navigating the Realities of Marriage; Love Questions, Honest Answers; Love With Your Eyes Open; Breaking News: Back to Sender Prayers: God Said, “Who Sent You?”; Marriage Playbook: Gems for Married Couples; and Two Hearts, One Lifetime.

Speaking at the presentation, Alakija said the books were not intended simply to recount her life’s journey but to preserve values and experiences that could help others in their walk with God.

She said, “God has been gracious to me throughout every season of my life. Whatever lessons I have learned are gifts of His grace, and I believe they should be shared. If these books encourage even one person to trust God more deeply, strengthen a marriage, make a wiser decision or remain faithful through life’s challenges, then they have fulfilled their purpose.”

According to her, the books reflect themes that have remained central to her ministry over the years, including Christ-centred marriages, healthy relationships, servant leadership, spiritual discernment, faithful living and stewardship.

The presentation also featured reviews of the books, with speakers highlighting their practical approach to issues confronting families and relationships.

Reviewing Still in Love at 80 and Beyond: Navigating the Realities of Marriage, Olumide Omosebi said the book presents marriage in a realistic rather than idealised manner, examining issues ranging from choosing a life partner to communication, finances, intimacy and conflict resolution.

“What resonated with me most is the author’s balanced approach. The book acknowledges that marriage is not without challenges, yet it consistently reminds us that healthy relationships are built through love, intentionality, mutual respect, forgiveness and unwavering commitment,” he said.

Omosebi added that the publication encourages readers “not merely to seek a successful marriage, but to become the kind of individual who can build and sustain one.”

Eme Akenzua, who reviewed Marriage Playbook, described the book as a practical response to questions many couples struggle to ask openly. She said the publication addresses issues including abuse, abandonment, trust, finances, communication, family interference, widowhood and other realities confronting married couples, while grounding its answers in biblical principles.

She explained, “The Marriage Playbook is less of a manual and more a trusted conversation with wise counsellors. It is the kind of book that deserves to be read with a pen in your hand because you will find yourself reflecting on familiar challenges and starting conversations that every healthy marriage needs.”

Akenzua added that the publication demonstrates that “legacy isn’t measured only by what we build, but by the wisdom we preserve and pass on.”

Other reviewers described the books as practical resources for both singles and married couples, noting that they encourage healthy relationships built on wisdom, character, spiritual maturity and intentional effort rather than emotion alone.

The books draw from Alakija’s years of teaching on marriage, family life, faith, leadership and purposeful living through ministry engagements, conferences and mentoring initiatives. They also reflect values that have consistently shaped her work, including integrity, discipline, compassion, service and trust in God.

Beyond the book presentation, the thanksgiving service featured worship, prayers, documentary tributes and reflections on Alakija’s contributions to ministry, philanthropy, business leadership and nation-building.

Guests described the atmosphere as one centred on gratitude to God, with the celebration focusing on thanksgiving rather than personal recognition.

Alakija reaffirmed her commitment to continue serving through ministry, mentorship, philanthropy and leadership, while encouraging people to live lives defined by purpose, integrity and faithful stewardship.

The presentation of the six books, she said, represents another effort to preserve principles that will continue to inspire, strengthen and guide individuals and families for generations to come.