By Bilesanmi Abayomi
It was a colourful and joyous occasion on Saturday as family and friends gathered to celebrate Alhaja (Mrs) Ramota Abdul, who marked her 80th birthday in grand style.
The octogenarian, described as a loving mother, prayer warrior, and unifier, was showered with tributes from children, in-laws, and well-wishers who recounted her impact on their lives.
One of her sons-in-law, Mr. Lekan Lekuti, husband of Mrs. Yinka Lekuti, said words were not enough to capture Mama’s value, describing her as “wonderful and loving.” According to him, she treats her in-laws as her own children and always works to resolve conflicts peacefully.
Similarly, Mr. Temitope Bilesanmi, an in-law whose elder brother, Abayomi Bilesanmi, Publisher of KosofePost, is married to one of the celebrant’s daughters, praised Alhaja Abdul as a caring personality who constantly checks on people irrespective of distance or closeness.
For Alhaji Surajudeen Salau, husband to Mrs. Sekinat Kehinde Salau, the celebrant is “full of life, energetic, family-oriented, and prayerful,” adding that her spiritual devotion was evident in the lives of those around her.
Another son-in-law, Mr. Durotoye Akeem, husband to Mrs. Olusola Durotoye, said Alhaja had become more than an in-law to him, describing her as “a mother figure whose love and support extended to all her children’s families.” He noted that reaching 80 in Nigeria, where life expectancy hovers around 50 years, was a remarkable testament to a life grounded in God.
Mrs. Abiola Abdul, one of the celebrant’s daughters-in-law, echoed similar sentiments, calling her “awesome, resilient, strong, and a giver.” She added, “It is the most important thing to have a mum who can pray morning, afternoon, and night. I have no regrets being part of this family.”
Speaking after the ceremony, Alhaja Abdul expressed gratitude to God for her life and family. She noted that she instilled discipline, respect, and fear of God in her children.
Offering advice to younger generations, she said: “When you have money, don’t just spend it anyhow; don’t show off. Do the little you can because you don’t know what tomorrow holds. Have discipline, respect yourself, and above all, have the fear of God.”
The new octogenarian is blessed with children and several grandchildren who continue to uphold her values of prayer, discipline, and love.
