Celebrating Decades of Educational Excellence

the scheduled time to honour a trailblazer. The dignitaries were successful men and women from various sectors: banking to judiciary; politics, culture, arts, etc.

Among her many relatives, distinguished friends and guests that graced the occasion were Arc. Femi Majekodunmi; Ms. Augusta Chibutu; Princess Vickie Haastrup; Chief Mrs. Morayo Fadipe; Mrs. Ann Modupe Akindele; Hon. Mrs. Onikepo Akande; Mrs. Laila St. Mathew Daniel; Mrs. Lande Adeshina; Mrs. Modupe Sagoe; Mrs. Jojola Odukojo; Senator Daisy Danjuma; Erelu Biodun Ojutalayo; and the chairman of the occasion, Chief Mrs. Nike Akande (CON), former Minister of Industry, just to mention a few.

Overwhelmed with joy “big mummy”, as most people called her, was pretty much at hand to receive the personalities from far and wide as they glided through the red carpet on to her warm embrace. She was showered with praises, prayers and testimonies. The host was described in glowing words as iconic, kind, loving, caring, unassuming, disciplinarian, trailblazer, courageous, visionary, achiever, role model, hardworking, dogged, titan, and mentor.

The congratulatory message to the celebrant aptly captures the sentiments that flowed from the testimonies given by family members, friends and ex-students in acknowledgement of her impact through the school: “We watched your schools grow from strength to strength, to the strong international institutions that exist today in three countries. Over the 40 years, you have moulded intelligent, disciplined and sensitive professionals with admirable characters. You have fulfilled your dreams. We are so proud of you,” one of them said.

There was music from the famous Akin Shuga Band to the melodious harmony of saxophonist, BJ Sax. As Laja danced to the rhythm her friends joined her on the floor to make up the beautiful scene. The merry would then trip over as classics of the past wafted through the speakers, momentarily reminiscing the host’s and her friends’ youthful days. Finger foods and exotic drinks complemented with local and intercontinental dishes were on offer.

And then a toast to the birthday ‘girl’ followed by picture sessions. Thrilled and overwhelmed, Laja was left speechless when asked to say a few words to the gathering. At the end, it was a time well shared together celebrating a woman who has distinguished herself over the years in educating Nigerian youths.