Dignitaries from across Nigeria’s political and development landscape are set to converge in Abuja this weekend to celebrate Dr Margaret Fagboyo, as the development practitioner and former Ekiti State Special Adviser turns 50.

The event, which will take place at BMO Event Arena inside RiverPlate Park, Abuja, is expected to attract high-level guests, including Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji, former Governors Kayode Fayemi and Niyi Adebayo, as well as Regina Akume, wife of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation.
Others listed to attend include the First Lady of Ondo State, Seun Aiyedatiwa, the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, Senator Yemi Adaramodu, Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Adeoye Aribasoye, federal lawmakers, top civil society leaders, diplomats, and development professionals.

Dr Fagboyo, a native of Ilawe-Ekiti, served as Special Adviser on Development Partnerships and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) under the administration of former Governor Fayemi from 2018 to 2022. She is currently Director of Development at the African Centre for Leadership, Strategy & Development (Centre LSD), a leading policy and strategy think tank.

Her development career spans more than two decades, including a significant tenure with the UK Department for International Development (DFID), where she rose to Regional Coordinator and Acting Head of Office. She led programming in the South West, South South, and South East regions, with a focus on inclusion, governance reform, and institutional partnerships.

In an interview ahead of her birthday celebration, Dr Fagboyo reflected on her vision for Nigeria, calling for a nation “where institutions work and leadership is driven by integrity and service.” She urged a collective effort to tackle the country’s entrenched challenges through governance that is both inclusive and accountable.

“My vision for Nigeria is one of hope, transformation and inclusive growth,” she said. “A Nigeria where diversity is a strength, institutions uphold justice, and the average citizen feels seen and valued.”

When asked about regrets at 50, she said her journey has been one of gratitude and self-discovery, despite the challenges.

“If I have any regret, it would be the times I doubted myself or dimmed my light for others,” she said. “But even those moments were lessons. I’m embracing the next chapter with purpose and courage.”

Dr Fagboyo, who is a mother of three, also reiterated her belief in Nigeria’s potential and resilience.

“As a people, we are brilliant and resourceful. With the right leadership and commitment, we can build a nation that works not just for a few, but for all,” she said.