Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, alongside his family members, friends, and associates, gathered in Abeokuta on Saturday to commemorate the 20th memorial service of his late wife and former First Lady, Stella Obasanjo.
The thanksgiving service, which took place at the Chapel of Christ the Glorious King, within the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL), was marked by solemn reflections, heartfelt tributes, and a celebration of the late first lady’s enduring legacy of grace and compassion.
Among the dignitaries present were former governors of Ogun State, Otunba Gbenga Daniel and Senator Ibikunle Amosun, as well as family friends, clerics, and community leaders.
Speaking briefly with journalists after the service, the former president described the memorial as a moment of gratitude rather than mourning.
“We are celebrating a life of service. Stella lived a life devoted to God and humanity, and her memory remains a blessing to all who knew her,” Obasanjo said.
During the service, Reverend Yusufu Obaje, the pioneer chaplain of the State House Chapel, Abuja, delivered the sermon, urging Christians to live purposefully and in submission to God’s will.
Obaje described the late Stella Obasanjo as a woman who embodied humility, compassion, and unwavering faith throughout her lifetime.
In an emotional tribute, John Abebe, younger brother to the late first lady, painted a vivid picture of his sister’s warmth and resilience. He recalled how Stella’s presence brought comfort during difficult times.
“Sister Stella was someone you just couldn’t be angry with. She would always smile through every challenge. When our eldest brother passed away, her visit changed the atmosphere in our home. Her laughter and encouragement helped ease my parents’ grief,” Abebe said.
Abebe added that her ever-cheerful spirit continues to be remembered within the family, “Even as we mark this 20th anniversary, what stays with us is her smile.”
Also speaking at the service, Stella’s only son, Olumuyiwa Obasanjo, reflected on the strong values and lessons his mother instilled in him.
“She was caring, firm, and deeply protective. My mother was the kind of person who demanded the best from you but gave even more in return. Her laughter, kindness, and wisdom still guide me today,” he said.
Now in his late forties, Olumuyiwa noted that his mother’s legacy lives on through her grandchildren, a 17-year-old daughter and a 12-year-old son, both of whom, he said, “carry a part of her light.”
Former Governor Gbenga Daniel also paid tribute to the late First Lady, recalling her compassion and commitment to community service.
“We thank God for her life and the mark she left behind. During my tenure as governor, we named a motherless home after her because of her passion for orphans and vulnerable children. Two decades later, her impact is still felt,” Daniel said.
The service concluded with hymns, prayers, and words of comfort for the Obasanjo family. Guests later gathered for a brief reception at the OOPL, where a photo exhibition showcasing moments from Stella Obasanjo’s public life and humanitarian work was displayed.
Born on November 14, 1945, Stella Obasanjo served as Nigeria’s First Lady from 1999 until her passing in 2005. She was renowned for her advocacy on women’s empowerment, health awareness, and child welfare, particularly through her Child Care Trust foundation.
