President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has paid glowing tribute to Chief (Mrs.) Lucia Onabowale Onabanjo, wife of the late Chief Victor Olabisi Onabanjo, as she marks her 100th birthday, describing her as a symbol of grace, wisdom, and fortitude whose life embodies the moral and political history of Ogun State and the Yoruba nation.
In a message personally signed by the President, Tinubu joined the people of Ogun State, the South-West, and the entire nation in celebrating what he called “a century of grace and virtue.”
The President lauded Madam Onabanjo’s lifelong contributions as both a devoted wife and partner to the late Chief Olabisi Onabanjo — Ogun State’s first civilian governor and one of Nigeria’s foremost nationalist leaders — and as a mother and teacher who helped shape generations through her work and values.
“She was not only a partner in her husband’s public life but also a mother of wisdom, prayer, and grace, whose kindness and steady presence shaped the values of all who came within her circle,” Tinubu said.
Recalling her 22-year career as a teacher in Lagos and Zaria, the President highlighted her selfless service to education and her nurturing role in society, describing her as a representation of “a generation of Nigerian women whose resilience, faith, and devotion nurtured families, anchored communities, and strengthened the moral fibre of our nation.”
Tinubu also commended Madam Onabanjo’s forgiving spirit toward a former military leader whose regime imprisoned her husband, noting that her century-long life stands as a testament to forgiveness, humility, and enduring virtue.
“I salute Mama’s uncommon grace, wisdom, and fortitude on this blessed centenary,” the President said, adding that true greatness is measured not by titles but by “the quiet consistency of virtue and service.”
He further praised the Onabanjo family for preserving the legacy of honour left behind by the late Chief Onabanjo, which, according to him, continues to enrich Nigeria’s collective story.
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“On behalf of the Government and people of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, I rejoice with Chief (Mrs.) Onabanjo, her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, on this extraordinary milestone,” Tinubu concluded.
He prayed that God grants the centenarian continued health, peace, and the joy of witnessing the flourishing of the fruits of her labour across generations.
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