Dignitaries, family, and friends converged in Ibadan to celebrate former Minister of Education, Professor Tunde Adeniran, on the occasion of his 80th birthday.
Among those who honoured the elder statesman were former Ekiti State Governor, Segun Oni; ex-Nigerian Ambassador to the Philippines, Dr. Yemi Farounbi; and Dr. Olu Agunloye, alongside other notable personalities.
The milestone celebration began with a birthday thanksgiving and Holy communion service at the Methodist Church Nigeria, Bodija, Ibadan, Oyo State. This was followed by a grand reception at La Chateau Event Centre, Awolowo Way, Bodija.
In his tribute, Agunloye, a longtime friend of the celebrant, described Adeniran as an exceptional intellectual and mentor whose influence spans decades.
“I have known him for over 50 years, and I derive a lot of inspiration from him. He is one of the most productive people I’ve ever met. We worked closely with great men like Bola Ige, Wole Soyinka, Femi Johnson, and Bola Akinyemi. He is indeed worthy of emulation,” he said.
One of Adeniran’s daughters, Mrs. Banke Akinsola, also celebrated her father’s legacy of love, discipline, and service.
“My dad is a philanthropist who always opens his doors to anyone in need. His character and loving heart are worthy of emulation. He is a disciplinarian who never tolerates laziness, and he continues to inspire me,” she said.
In his own remarks, Professor Adeniran expressed deep gratitude to God for sparing his life to reach the landmark age.
“I am grateful to God because it is only by His grace that I made it to 80. He has ensured that I live a meaningful life. Without Him, I wouldn’t be here today,” he said.
The octogenarian, who also seized the occasion to reflect on national development, urged Nigerians to draw closer to God and embrace values that promote collective progress.
“Nigeria is richly blessed with human and material resources. What remains is for us to show appreciation to God by committing ourselves to His will and to the good of society. We need to transform lives for a better nation. The younger generation must wake up, because it is their future that is at stake if things go wrong,” he charged.
