The Executive Chairman of Ikeja Local Government, Comrade Akeem Olalekan Dauda (AKOD), on Thursday, October 8, 2026, joined family members, friends, political associates and well-wishers to celebrate the 85th birthday of Chief Mrs. Benedicta Modupe Olaiya, describing her as an astute politician, a virtuous mother, a remarkable woman and a living legend.
The celebration commenced with a Holy Mass at St. Leo Catholic Church, Toyin Street, Ikeja, followed by a colourful reception at the Mini Hall of the Ikeja Sports Centre, where dignitaries, family members, political associates and admirers gathered to honour the octogenarian.
AKOD attended the celebration alongside members of the Ikeja Local Government Executive Council, including the Vice Chairman, Hon. Abisola Omisore; Secretary to the Local Government, Prince Adeyinks Illo; Supervisor for Agriculture and Social Services, Comrade Tayo Aderinola; Supervisor for Special Duties, Hon. Dada Adams; Supervisor for Environment, Hon. Edward Aragbonfoh; Supervisor for Tourism and Hospitality, Hon. Adeshola Ediagbonya; Supervisor for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Hon. Olufunmibi Akinduro; Supervisor for ICT, Hon Matthew Ojewunmi; Special Adviser on Women and Poverty Alleviation, Hon. Ogunyemi Fatimoh; and Special Adviser on Special Duties, Hon. Austin Omoruyi.
Other notable personalities at the event included the Chairman of APC Ikeja Chapter, Hon. Adetoro Adebowale; Apostle Titilayo Olowoporoku; Dr. Bayo Ayo; the Chief of Staff to Hon. James Abiodun Faleke; Hon. Debo Olasoji; and Barr. Kola Osundairo, among other dignitaries and well-wishers.
The reception featured heartfelt tributes, prayers, music and joyous celebrations as guests praised the celebrant for her remarkable life of service, motherhood, generosity and commitment to humanity.
One of her children, who travelled from abroad to celebrate the milestone, expressed profound gratitude to Almighty God for preserving his mother’s life and granting her good health.
He described her as a generous, caring and loving mother who consistently went out of her way to support and care for everyone she encountered. He prayed for many more blissful years for her in sound health and happiness.
Speaking at the event, AKOD described Chief Mrs. Olaiya as a strong supporter of good governance whose wealth of experience, wise counsel and contributions to public life had positively influenced the development of Ikeja.
He noted that her enduring commitment to community development and the welfare of the people deserved recognition and celebration, adding that her 85th birthday provided an opportunity to honour a life defined by wisdom, grace, compassion and service.
The Ikeja Council Chairman congratulated the celebrant on attaining the milestone age and prayed for her continued good health, strength and many more fulfilling years surrounded by her family, friends and loved ones.
In her remarks, Chief Mrs. Benedicta Modupe Olaiya expressed profound joy and gratitude to Almighty God for preserving her life to witness her 85th birthday.
She also appreciated AKOD for making time out of his busy weekday schedule to celebrate with her, describing his presence as a gesture she deeply valued.
The renowned philanthropist and woman of goodwill further expressed heartfelt appreciation to all family members, friends, political associates, dignitaries and well-wishers who joined her on Thursday, October 8, 2026, to celebrate the milestone and honour her life and legacy.
