Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, has joined family members, friends and well-wishers to celebrate Chief Reuben Fasoranti, CFR, Leader of Afenifere and Asiwaju Yoruba, as he marked his 100th birthday.
Epe Insights reports that Hamzat described the centenary celebration as an opportunity to honour Fasoranti’s remarkable life, leadership and contributions to the Yoruba people.
The celebration featured a centenary lecture with the theme, “A Century of Courage and Stewardship of Yorùbá Democratic Legacy.”
The theme reflected the values associated with Fasoranti’s long public life and his commitment to democratic ideals.
Hamzat noted that attaining the age of 100 was a significant blessing, but said Fasoranti’s greatest achievement was the manner in which he had devoted his lifetime to principled leadership and service.
He praised the elder statesman for his commitment to the values and democratic heritage of the Yoruba people.
According to the deputy governor, the centenary celebration provided an opportunity to reflect on the responsibilities that come with leadership and public service.
He said Fasoranti’s life demonstrated the importance of remaining committed to principles while serving the interests of the people.
The occasion also highlighted the contributions of elderly statesmen whose experiences continue to provide valuable lessons for younger generations.
For communities across Lagos, including Epe Division, the celebration offers an opportunity to recognise the importance of respecting senior citizens and preserving the wisdom and experiences of older generations.
Many retirees and elderly residents in Epe have similarly spent decades contributing to the development of their communities and the wider society.
The recognition of individuals who have dedicated their lives to public service also underscores the broader importance of ensuring that senior citizens are treated with dignity and respect.
For pensioners, the transition from active service to retirement represents a significant stage of life that requires continued attention to their welfare and wellbeing.
While Hamzat’s message focused on Chief Fasoranti’s centenary, his emphasis on lifelong service and stewardship resonates with the values of appreciating people who have contributed meaningfully to society.
The deputy governor described Fasoranti’s century-long journey as a legacy worthy of reflection and celebration.
He also emphasised the importance of upholding democratic values passed down by previous generations of Yoruba leaders.
The centenary lecture therefore served as more than a birthday gathering, providing a platform to examine the values of courage, leadership and responsible citizenship.
Fasoranti’s position as Leader of Afenifere and Asiwaju Yoruba has made him an influential figure in discussions surrounding Yoruba interests, leadership and democratic development.
Hamzat joined other dignitaries and well-wishers in celebrating the elder statesman and acknowledging his contribution to public life.
His message also carried a generational dimension, encouraging society to learn from leaders who have spent decades contributing to their communities.
For residents of Epe, the celebration of a 100-year-old elder statesman also highlights the importance of recognising the elderly as custodians of history, experience and community values.
The wellbeing of elderly people, including pensioners in Epe, remains an important part of building inclusive communities where senior citizens can live with dignity.
As Epe continues to develop, the experiences of retired public servants, traditional leaders, community elders and other senior citizens remain valuable to the younger generation.
The celebration of Fasoranti at 100 demonstrates how a lifetime of service can leave an enduring impact beyond an individual’s immediate community.
Hamzat said dedicating a lifetime to principled leadership and democratic values was a legacy that future generations should strive to uphold.
He further celebrated Fasoranti and wished him continued good health and peace.
The deputy governor’s participation in the centenary celebration reflects the Lagos State Government’s recognition of the contributions of senior citizens and elder statesmen to society.
For pensioners and elderly residents in Epe Division, the occasion also serves as a reminder that years of service and community contribution remain worthy of recognition.
The story of Fasoranti’s century-long journey reinforces the value of experience, responsible leadership and commitment to the wellbeing of society.
As the elder statesman enters his second century, his life remains a reference point for discussions on service, leadership and the preservation of democratic values.
Hamzat concluded his goodwill message by celebrating Chief Fasoranti and wishing him many more years in good health and peace.
The centenary celebration ultimately provided an opportunity to honour a distinguished Yoruba elder while reflecting on the enduring responsibility of every generation to preserve the values and legacies handed down by those before them.
