By Ayo Arowojolu
Abeokuta, the Ogun State Capital, was literally set aglow last weekend when Prof Bukola Onashoga, a lecturer at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), celebrated her 50th birthday in grand style.
It was one moment she accorded honour to God for His munificence over her family and career, over the past five decades.
The birthday bash took place at the imposing H3 Event Centre located close to the Oke-Mosan Governor’s Office.
It was also an event to wine, dine and share banters with old friends particularly old school mates of St. Theresa College, Ibadan where the birthday girl attended secondary school.
It was also an event filled with an atmosphere of praise and worship to the Almighty with an inspiring sermon by the man of God, Pastor Frank SS Adéyemí, General Overseer, LordArise Global Christian Church.
The plank of Pastor Adeyemi’s homily titled, “50 For The Few” centred on the need for people who desire to make heaven to come out from among them and separate themselves from worldly pattern.
The preacher also enjoined all in attendance to embrace holy and godly lifestyles, describing the celebrant as an exemplary Christian worthy of emulation.
The Chairman of the event was Prof. K. I. T. Eniola, Vice-Chancellor, Kogi State University, Kabba while Princess Iyabo Odulate, a former Commissioner, Federal Civil Service, was the Mother of the day.
A memorable moment that got the attendees jaw-dropped was when a documentary was played in a light-out, just as energy was equally shifted as everyone got completely captivated at the celebrant’s royal grand entry into the hall.
Another side attraction was the red carpet that had the celebrant on a horse ride with a caption ” Bukola Rides in Style and Grace at 50 “
An “old girl” of St. Theresa College, Mrs. Nike Odagunduro spoke on behalf of the Alumni, reminiscing on old memories of celebrant’s attitude covering her hilarious nature to intelligence and social life.
The celebrant, Prof Onashoga had this to say in his speech: “To God alone be the glory over my life for the journey I have been on. My appreciation to everyone who has been a part of my life, shaping me into the person that I am today. To my family, friends, and loved ones, the support and love mean the world to me.
“As I look ahead to the future, I am excited for all the adventures and opportunities that await. My focus on the next fifty years is on humanity, shaping the world of others. I cheer myself into another year of growth, laughter, and making unforgettable memories”.
The assemblage of guests who graced the occasion included, the husband of the celebrant, Alhaji Ibrahim Onashoga who was everywhere welcoming guests, Prof and Prof Mrs Eromosele, an Islamic Cleric, Alhaji AbduFattah Odusanya, the Iyalaje of Iludun, Chief Mrs Adebukola Ogundele, JP, Pastor Mrs Mary Adéyemí and several others.
Siblings of the celebrant, Engr Adegbenga Okunlaya and Surv. Opeyemi Okunlaya also graced the event.
Of course, there were lots and lots of menu on the table for starters such as royal tiger nut and nutritious zobo drinks with peppered Gizzed Dodo and chinchin, whichever you like as well as real Nigerian cuisines, Jollof or fried rice served with chicken, beef and fish and not leaving out some ethnic food such as Ikokore, Amala with Gbegiri soup, Fufu with Ẹfọ-riro and Ofada rice.
