The atmosphere in Ogun State is filled with celebration and heartfelt admiration as Her Excellency Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun, the First Lady of Ogun State, marked her 59th birthday. Known for her elegance, compassion, and unwavering commitment to humanitarian causes, her birthday was not just a personal milestone but a moment for many to reflect on the profound impact she continues to make across the state and beyond.
Born on July 16, 1966, in Ibadan, Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun hails from a distinguished academic family. Her father, the late Professor Oladipo Oduye, was a respected figure in Nigerian education. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Zoology from the University of Ibadan in 1988. Married to Governor Dapo Abiodun since 1990, their union has been blessed with five children. Her upbringing and academic journey laid the foundation for a life defined by service, intellect, and grace.
As the First Lady of Ogun State, Mrs. Abiodun has been a vocal and visible advocate for the welfare of women, children, persons with disabilities, and other vulnerable groups. Her philanthropic platform, the Ajose Foundation, has spearheaded numerous initiatives in health, education, gender-based violence prevention, and poverty alleviation. Through partnerships and community-driven projects, she has worked tirelessly to bridge gaps and provide lasting solutions to social challenges.
One of her most notable initiatives is SheVentures, a program launched in partnership with First City Monument Bank to empower women entrepreneurs. The initiative has provided interest-free loans and business training to over 150 small and medium-scale enterprises led by women, fostering economic independence and sustainability.
Mrs. Abiodun’s dedication to education has also been remarkable. In 2019, she facilitated the donation of over 42,000 textbooks to schools across Ogun State through a partnership with Learn Africa Plc, thereby enhancing access to learning materials for thousands of students. Her advocacy work has taken her to global stages, including the UNFPA conference in Nairobi, where she represented Ogun State and emphasized the importance of aligning local efforts with global development goals.
In recognition of her commitment to development and social justice, she has received several awards and honors. These include being named a Global Hepatitis Zero Ambassador and a United Nations Sustainable Development Champion. More recently, she was voted African Iconic Woman of the Year 2024, a testament to her influence and the deep respect she commands across the continent.
Her 59th birthday drew tributes from diverse quarters. Leaders of trade and professional groups, lawmakers, youth organizations, and women leaders poured out their admiration. They praised her as a virtuous woman, a symbol of strength, and a pillar of support to her husband and the people of Ogun State. Among those who paid glowing tributes were leaders of the Ogun State chapter of the Amalgamated Commercial Motorcycle Riders and Repairers Association of Nigeria (AMORAN), members of the Ogun State House of Assembly, and prominent business leaders.
Described as a legend and a woman of substance, Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun continues to inspire through her humility, leadership, and deep sense of responsibility. As she steps into another year of life, many look forward with optimism to the continued reach and influence of her initiatives, confident that her legacy will endure through the lives she touches and the communities she uplifts.
Her 59th birthday was not just a celebration of life, but a resounding affirmation of the enduring value of purpose, service, and compassion.
