Ikorodu, Lagos – July 24, 2025, Aarebirin Hon. Princess (Dr.) Folashade Florence Grace Aishat Olabanji-Oba, fondly known as Akankeade, marked her birthday today with a profound message of gratitude, reflection on her impactful journey, and a stirring call for national hope, resilience, and unity.
In a message radiating thanksgiving and grace, she wrote:
“To God Almighty be all the glory! Great grace, prosperity, mercy, and favour… Today is my birthday. I am forever grateful and thankful. Endless love.”
Princess Olabanji-Oba currently serves as the outgoing Vice Chairman of Ikorodu Local Government, Chairman of the Association of Local Government Vice Chairmen of Nigeria (ALGOVC), and the Global Director General of the Asiwaju Distinguished Ambassadors Movement (ADAM)—an influential platform that promotes visionary leadership, youth mobilization, and civic engagement, inspired by the ideology of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
A consummate public servant, Akankeade described service to humanity as a lifestyle, one that fuels her every endeavor in both public and private life.
“Service is the heartbeat of my life—it’s not something I switch on and off. Whether in government, the community, or global stages, I lead with compassion and commitment to uplift others,” she stated.
Widely celebrated as a multiple award-winning humanitarian, grassroots mobilizer, and transformational leader, Princess Olabanji-Oba has spent decades building bridges between communities, promoting inclusive governance, empowering women and youth, and championing peacebuilding initiatives.
Her leadership style—marked by accessibility, empathy, and results—has earned her numerous accolades from government institutions, non-governmental organizations, traditional councils, and international bodies.
These awards recognize her work in areas such as good governance, gender advocacy, civic education, public enlightenment, and humanitarian service.
In a heartfelt reflection, she paid glowing tribute to her late mother, whom she credited as the foundation of her strength and resilience.
“Though she wasn’t educated, my mother sacrificed everything to give me access to the best education. Her sacrifices live in me. She is my daily reminder of why I must keep striving—to fulfil dreams, hers and mine,” she said.
This emotional recollection underscores Princess Olabanji-Oba’s commitment to building a legacy that uplifts others, especially the marginalized, through education, empowerment, and opportunity.
As she looked back on her life’s accomplishments and looked ahead to future aspirations, Princess Folashade shared a powerful message of hope and encouragement to Nigerians across the nation.
“As I mark another year today, I want every Nigerian to keep hope alive. Stay uplifted. Better days are ahead. No matter the current challenges, the future holds greatness for us as individuals and as a nation. The best is yet to come,” she encouraged.
Her words resonate at a time when many Nigerians are seeking inspiration, and her message has sparked a wave of optimism on social media and within civic circles.
Her birthday has been met with widespread tributes from political figures, traditional rulers, women groups, youth leaders, diaspora organizations, and development partners, all celebrating her as a visionary, bridge-builder, and mother to many.
With her dynamic influence extending from the grassroots to global platforms, Akankeade continues to embody excellence, service, and resilience.
She is regarded as a key figure in shaping inclusive dialogue and driving development at the local government level and beyond.
As she enters a new chapter, Princess Olabanji-Oba reaffirmed her commitment to deepening her humanitarian work, promoting social justice, and empowering future generations.
“This new year is another opportunity to do more, serve more, and impact more lives. I remain devoted to the causes that matter—education, empowerment, peace, and purpose-driven leadership,” she concluded.
From Ikorodu to the world, Aarebirin Hon. Princess (Dr.) Folashade Florence Grace Aishat Olabanji-Oba remains a beacon of light—proving that with gratitude, vision, and unwavering service, one woman can touch countless lives and still remain humble in the process.
INN-HOUSE☆ 