…Educators, Diplomats, Lawmakers and Media Leaders Celebrate Decades of Service in Education
The Press Centre, Iyaganku, Ibadan, was aglow on as distinguished Nigerians from across politics, diplomacy, academia, law, media, hospitality and the arts converged to celebrate Mrs. Moyomade Bolatito Ojo-Lanre on her birthday and her retirement from active service after an exemplary career in education.
The colourful ceremony, held at the Dapo Aderogba Hall, NUJ Press Centre, served as both a pen-down event and a tribute to a life marked by discipline, scholarship, devotion to family and dedicated public service.
The event drew a cross-section of prominent personalities, including: Ambassador Yemi Farounbi, Former Nigerian Ambassador to the Philippines.Senator Abdulfatai Omotayo Buhari, Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.Yomi Fash-Lanso, Renowned Actor and Thespian.Prof. Babalola Wasiu Adeyemo, President, Hotel Management and Tourism, Atiba University. Mr. Ayo Ogundele, President, Oyo State Hoteliers Association.
Comrade Akeem Abass, Chairman, NUJ Oyo State Council. Mogaji Soladoye Adewole, Mogaji Cosmos Olalekan Oni, Otunba Ayo Olumoko, Mrs. Toyin Adaramodu, Pastor Funsho Fafowora, Mr. Sunday Olajide, Mr. Dapo Falade, and Mrs. Monica Taiwo, among other eminent guests, family members and professional colleagues.
Mrs. Ojo-Lanre began her teaching career at Apata Grammar School, Apata, Ibadan, and retired in 2026 as Principal of Oyalami Community Grammar School, Orita Challenge, Ibadan, after decades of meritorious service in the Oyo State Teaching Service.
A scholar to the end, she obtained a degree in Chemistry Education from Adeyemi College of Education, Ondo, and later earned a *Master’s Degree in Educational Psychology from the University of Ibadan in 2016, demonstrating a commitment to lifelong learning even while administering schools and raising a family.
Speakers noted that her trajectory from classroom teacher to school Principal exemplified perseverance, professional competence and quiet leadership.
Delivering remarks, Senator Abdulfatai Omotayo Buhari described the Ojo-Lanre family as one deserving of honour. He recounted altering his travel schedule to attend, stating that his respect for Ambassador Wale Ojo-Lanre, Esq. and the values the family represents necessitated his presence.
He congratulated Mrs. Ojo-Lanre for providing the stability and support that enabled her husband to thrive in journalism, law, public service and tourism development.
Ambassador Yemi Farounbi, who traveled in from the United States for the event, paid an emotional tribute. He described the celebrant as much more than a wife a mother, companion, and dependable pillar. He commended her patience, tolerance and capacity to sustain a home while building a distinguished professional career, noting that behind many public figures are spouses whose sacrifices deserve national recognition
Mrs. Toyin Adaramodu lauded Mrs. Ojo-Lanre’s humility and strength of character, describing her as an example of women’s contribution to nation-building through education and mentorship.
Yomi Fash-Lanso eulogized her as an “Iyawo gidi”, a true and dependable wife whose ability to balance marriage, motherhood and a demanding career merited celebration.
Prof. Babalola Wasiu Adeyemo observed that education remains the bedrock of societal development. He urged that retirement should be viewed not as an end, but as a transition to mentorship and greater community contribution.
Mr. Ayo Ogundele, President of the Oyo State Hoteliers Association, said the impressive turnout was a testament to the goodwill the Ojo-Lanre family had built over the years.
In a touching family tribute, Barrister Bukky Ojo-Lanre described her mother as one whose parenting philosophy rested on discipline, education and values. She noted that Mrs. Ojo-Lanre never compromised on the upbringing of her children.
In his appreciation, Ambassador Wale Ojo-Lanre, Esq. expressed gratitude for a partner who provided stability at home while pursuing her own professional calling. He described the celebration as a recognition of friendship, family and decades of shared service.
The ceremony featured goodwill messages, music, and reflections on a life of service. It transformed what would have been a routine retirement into a public acknowledgment of impact.
At the heart of the celebration was Mrs. Moyomade Bolatito Ojo-Lanre: the teacher who became Principal; the student who returned to the classroom for a Master’s degree; the wife and mother whose home reflected her values; and the public servant who retired after molding generations of young Nigerians.
The gathering affirmed that her legacy extends beyond the classroom to the family she nurtured, the colleagues she inspired, and the society she served.
