By Ayomide Otitoju
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, his Oyo State counterpart, Engr. Seyi Makinde, and a host of former governors and dignitaries on Tuesday joined family, friends and associates to celebrate former First Lady of Ogun, Ondo and Lagos states, Senator Fatimat Raji-Rasaki, as she marked her 70th birthday.
Among those in attendance were former Lagos State Governor Akinwunmi Ambode; former Ogun State Governor Olusegun Osoba; former Osun State Governor Olagunsoye Oyinlola; former Ekiti State Governor Adeniyi Adebayo; as well as serving and retired political and military leaders, traditional and religious rulers, and captains of industry.
The celebration, held in Victoria Island, Lagos, featured a thanksgiving service and the unveiling of the Senator Fatimat Raji-Rasaki Foundation. The event also coincided with the celebrant’s 50th wedding anniversary with her husband, former Military Governor of Ogun, Ondo and Lagos states, Brigadier-General Raji Rasaki (rtd).
Governor Makinde read the second lesson during the service, while Pastor Tunde Bakare of the Citadel Church of God delivered the sermon. The event was well attended by well-wishers from across the country.
In his remarks, Governor Sanwo-Olu described Senator Raji-Rasaki, a former Chairman of the Senate Committee on Trade and Investment, as a dedicated public servant with a strong passion for empowering the less privileged through her foundation. The governor, who was represented by the Secretary to the Lagos State Government, Mrs Abimbola Salu-Hundeyin, commended the celebrant for her commitment to women empowerment and family development.
He noted that strong families form the bedrock of a resilient society and expressed gratitude for her contributions to Lagos State and the nation, praising her role in governance, politics and community development.
Sanwo-Olu further described the former lawmaker as a trailblazer and distinguished leader who has consistently advocated fairness, inclusion and sustainable development throughout her public service career.
Speaking at the event, Senator Raji-Rasaki thanked God for the grace to attain the age of 70 and expressed appreciation to Nigerians for celebrating with her. She pledged to continue giving back to society through service and philanthropy.
Reflecting on her life and marriage, the former senator said God’s guidance shaped her calling in leadership and public service, stressing that her political career was anchored on service to humanity rather than personal gain.
“By divine guidance, God built and positioned me in leadership and political service, not for personal gain but as a platform to serve humanity,” she said, adding that she remains committed to using her influence to support her community and promote positive change.
