My wife and I never imagined we’d become Ogun’s first family — Gov Abiodun

…describes wife as virtuous woman

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has said neither he nor his wife ever imagined they would one day become the frst family of Ogun State when they first met nearly 40 years ago.

The governor made the remark on Sunday while paying tribute to his wife, Mrs Bamidele Abiodun, during a thanksgiving service held in her honour at the Government House Chapel, Oke-Igbein, Abeokuta, to mark her 60th birthday, celebrated on July 16.

Abiodun described the First Lady as a woman of virtue, compassion and unwavering faith, saying her steadfast support has been central to his life’s journey and public service.

He thanked God for preserving their family over the past four decades and commended his wife for keeping the home front stable while he continues to serve the people of Ogun State.

The governor also expressed gratitude for the gift of their children and God’s faithfulness to the family over the years.

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“I believe that when we think about our lives in terms of the number of days we have lived, and then consider the number of minutes and seconds our hearts have beaten, we are reminded that we must remain accountable to Almighty God.

“When I remember that our paths crossed about 39 years ago, I cannot but thank God for how He has preserved us. At the time, I was in Ife while she was at the University of Ibadan. I used to drive to Ibadan to see her. Neither of us knew that one day God would grant us the privilege of becoming the First Family of Ogun State,” he said.

Responding, Mrs Bamidele Abiodun described her Diamond Jubilee as more than a personal milestone, saying it was a divine call to deepen her commitment to serving humanity.

She said the occasion had strengthened her resolve to impact more lives through her humanitarian initiatives and dedicated service to the people of Ogun State, while thanking God for sustaining her over the past six decades.

Also speaking, the Speaker of the Ogun State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Oludaisi Elemide, described the First Lady as a devoted wife and dependable pillar of support to the governor, noting that every successful leader draws strength from the unwavering support of a committed spouse.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) House of Representatives candidate for Remo Federal Constituency and former Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hon. Funmi Afuwape, described Mrs Abiodun as a humble mentor whose passion for empowering others has inspired many people.

On behalf of the body of permanent secretaries, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs Adebimpe Folusho Obienu, praised the First Lady’s compassion for women, children, vulnerable persons and other residents of the state, describing her as a role model whose life reflects selfless service.

Mrs Peace Taiwo, wife of a former Chief of Staff to the governor, also paid tribute to the celebrant, describing her as kind-hearted, calm and gracious.

Delivering the sermon, the President of the Ogun Baptist Conference and Chairman of the Management Committee of the Government House Chapel, Rev. Oyewale Oyeniyi, reminded the congregation that the essence of life is to worship God and serve humanity.

He urged Mrs Abiodun to remain committed to God and continue serving humanity beyond her husband’s tenure as governor, stressing that a life dedicated to God and service to others remains the greatest legacy anyone can leave behind.