Matilda Omonaiye/
Prominent dignitaries, Rotarians, family members, friends, associates, and well-wishers gathered in Lagos on Saturday for the 20th remembrance anniversary of late Alhaji Ibrahim Akanni Olabiran, as his son, Rotarian Olalere Olabiran, hosted a colourful and emotionally charged memorial ceremony in honour of the deceased patriarch.
The well-attended event, held at the Fitjoy Event Centre in the Agege area of Lagos State, attracted guests from different parts of Nigeria, including members of the Rotary Club of Ibadan Bodija Estate, underscoring the enduring legacy and widespread respect the late Pa Olabiran commanded during his lifetime.
The atmosphere was filled with tributes, prayers, thanksgiving, musical renditions, and heartfelt reflections as guests celebrated the memory of a man widely remembered for his integrity, humility, compassion, and commitment to community service.
Speaking during the event, Rotarian Olalere Olabiran expressed deep appreciation to everyone who attended the remembrance ceremony, describing the massive turnout as a reflection of the positive impact his late father made on countless lives.
“My father believed in honesty, hard work, discipline, and compassion for others. Twenty years after his transition, we continue to draw strength and inspiration from the values he taught us. We are grateful to everyone who has come to honour his memory,” he said.
Members of the Rotary Club of Ibadan Bodija Estate paid glowing tributes to the late Alhaji Olabiran and commended Rotarian Olabiran for sustaining his father’s legacy through his own dedication to humanitarian service.
President-Elect of the club, Rotarian Anya Chukwu, who represented the President, Rotarian Victor Giwa PHF, described Rotarian Olabiran as a shining example of Rotary ideals and attributed his admirable character to the upbringing he received from his late father.
“Today, we celebrate a life that continues to inspire. The dedication of Rotarian Olalere Olabiran to service above self reflects the values his father instilled in him. It is heartwarming to see so many people gathered to honour such a remarkable man,” he said.
Another Rotarian at the gathering remarked that the impressive turnout at the ceremony spoke volumes about the respect and affection the late Pa Olabiran enjoyed within his community and beyond.
“When people are remembered two decades after their passing with this level of affection and admiration, it speaks volumes about the life they lived. Pa Olabiran left behind a legacy of kindness, integrity, and service,” the Rotarian said.
Guests at the event also shared fond memories of the deceased and praised the Olabiran family for preserving his ideals and values.
A longtime family friend, Chief Adewale Adebiyi, described the late Pa Olabiran as a dependable community leader and mentor whose wisdom and counsel positively influenced many lives.
“He was a man of wisdom and humility. He touched countless lives through his generosity and willingness to help others. His legacy remains alive in the lives of those he mentored and supported,” he said.
Also speaking, Mrs. Funke Adetunji recalled the deceased’s strong devotion to family values, peace, unity, and education.
“Pa Olabiran was known for bringing people together. He believed strongly in unity, peace, and education. Many of the principles he stood for are still relevant today, and it is encouraging to see his family keeping those ideals alive,” she said.
Family members of the late patriarch expressed gratitude to guests for their continued support over the years and for joining them to celebrate the life and legacy of their beloved father.
The event concluded with goodwill messages from dignitaries, Rotarians, and friends of the family, who urged younger generations to emulate the virtues of integrity, hard work, humility, and selfless service for which the late Alhaji Ibrahim Akanni Olabiran was known.
For many who attended, the gathering was more than a remembrance ceremony, it was a celebration of a life well lived and a legacy that continues to inspire, even two decades after his passing.
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