Bankole Taiwo, Abeokuta
Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun has described the Iyalode of Yoruba land, Chief (Mrs.) Alaba Lawson, as an epitome of womanhood, trailblazer, a leader and an exceptional role model, who has paved the path for women in Egbaland and Nigeria at large.
Governor Abiodun stated this in his remarks at the 70th birthday thanksgiving celebration of Chief (Mrs.) Alaba Lawson, held at the Chapel of Christ the Glorious King, Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library, Abeokuta.
Represented by his Deputy, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, Prince Abiodun said the history of the Egbas, Yorubaland and the nation has inspired the narratives of few women which include the celebrant, who at critical times in their eras, defied all odds in nation building, describing her as a proud ambassador of the State.
“The business world, would be incomplete without your successful entrepreneurial exploits, even the education landscape of Nigeria has been shaped with your interventions as an educationist,” he said.
The Governor added that as a committed Christian and an illustrious daughter of Ogun, his government would continue to look up to her for mentoring and guidance.
In his sermon, the Archbishop of Ogun Province of the African Church of Nigeria, Most Reverend Solomon Ojumu, said thanksgiving is important as it is the only thing God required from us, noting that He would appreciate and compensate even more than one’s expectations. He urged the celebrant to take life simple as she is getting older.
While thanking those who graced the occasion, the celebrant, Iyalode Alaba Lawson appreciated God for His goodness, mercies, faithfulness and benevolence over her life and family.
Dignitaries at the event included the former President of Nigeria, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, Chief of Staff to the State Governor, Alhaji Shuaib Salisu, Commissioners, Senator Lanre Tejuoso, royal fathers and members of different Christian associations.