It was a beehive of activities at the 70th birthday thanksgiving and anniversary of over four decades of divine call to Gospel Music Ministry of renowned gospel music legend, Evangelist (Dr) Funmi Aragbaiye as dignitaries from all walks of life converged at the Felicia Hall of Jogor Event Centre to celebrate the gospel music Icon.
The colourful and glamorous occasion which took place on Sunday July 28, 2024 had in attendance captains of industry and eminent personalities from all walks of life. The well attended celebration was a class of its own owing to the array and caliber of people in attendance.
The dignitaries at the epoch occasion included Hon. Gbenga Adewusi (Arole) who represented former President of Nigeria, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo GCFR, Phd, the Olubadan of Ibadan land, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, His Imperial Majesty Oba (Dr) Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi (CFR) Ojaja II, Ooni of Ife, a representative of former Speaker Federal House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Patricia Olubunmi Etteh, Former Governor of Bauchi State, Mallam (Dr) Isa Yuguda and his adorable wife, Commander (Prof.) Ebenezer Fabiyi Obey.
Others are Ambassador (Dr) Yemi Farounbi, former Nigeria Ambassador to the Philippines, Rev’d (Dr.) P.F Owa, General Overseer of Covenant of Mercy Church, Majemu Aanu, Ibadan, Chief (Dr) Mrs Onikepo Akande, the Iyalode Iyaloja of Ibadan land, the Aare Musulumi of Adamasingba and Environs, Chief (Dr). Raymond Adewale Adeyinka, Chief Dr. Taye Ayorinde Baale Ekotede, Evangelist Taiwo Omotunde and host of others.
The occasion for Evangelist (Dr) Funmi Aragbaiye was indeed a moment of self actualization and fulfillment owing to the expression of joy on her beautiful face all through the day. She was indeed celebrated to the high heavens.
In her address, Evangelist (Dr) Funmi Aragbaiye said the occasion was aimed at giving glory to God for his mercy and faithfulness over her life, her family and her achievements in the gospel music ministry.
She said the grace of attaining the age of 70 is overwhelming, and she thanked the Almighty God for the feat the grace has earned her.
“I am filled with joy and gratitude to share this journey with each and everyone of you in this mood of celebration. As I stand here before you, I am reminded of his grace over my life, the journey is not without its challenges, but God has always seen me through, and through it, I held unto the unwavering belief that the story needed to be told, and here I am today, standing before you to share the testimony.”
The vibrant gospel music Minister and composer said the moment is not only about her Biography book and that Zion foundation she is launching for the less privileged but about the power of story telling, the magic words and the impact that a single story can have in the world of a chosen vessel.
“It is about the courage to share our truths, the resilience to overcome obstacles, and the strength to pursue our dreams against all odds.
Speaking on her book, “A Biography of Legendary Funmi Aragbaiye and the Funmi Aragbaiye Zion Foundation, the versatile gospel singer said the duo achievements are the fulfilment of her quest and desire to establish her thoughts and experience to uplifting those coming behind.
“With the achievement of the book, I am filled with the hope that it will find its way into the heart and minds of readers everywhere. As I stand here before you, I am reminded of the countless hours spent pouring my heart and soul into the pages. Every word, every sentence, and every chapter is a reflection of my deepest thoughts, emotions and experience. And now as I released the book into the world, I am filled with the hope that it will find its way into the heart and mind if readers everywhere.
On the foundation, Dr. Aragbaiye whose appellation of three B’s by Chief Afe Babalola SAN, connotes Beautiful, Bold and Brilliant said the foundation is to cater for the less privileged in our society, saying it’s a dream come true.
Evangelist (Dr.) Aragbaiye acknowledged the unwavering support and commitment of Father of the Nation, Chief Olusegun Okikiola Obasanjo GCFR Phd, former President of Nigeria, the Arole Oodua, His Imperial Majesty, Oba (Dr) Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi CFR Ojaja II, Ooni of Ife, Mallam (Dr.) Isa Yuguda, former governor of Bauchi State, Ambassador (Dr) Yemi Farounbi, Chief (Dr) Mrs Onikepo Akande CON OON, Iyalaje Iyalode of Ibadan land
and host of others.
Speaking at the occasion, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi CFR, Ooni of Ife described the celebrant as a creative and intelligent singer whose gospel music has had very positive effect in the lives of people across the world.
He said, “I am happy to identify with Evangelist (Dr) Funmi Aragbaiye on the occasion of her 70th birthday and the anniversary of over four decades of her divine call to gospel music ministry. There is no doubt that she has writing her name in gold on the sand of time. I pray God Almighty will continue to strengthen her and bless her with long life.”
The atmosphere became more lively with high sensation of irrisistable music from the Chief Commander of Juju Music, Professor Ebenezer Fabiyi Obey who thrilled the guests for a few moments.
Chief Commander’s music any time, any day and any where is a sensation of soft melody tune which relaxes the mood of people. The hall came alive as soon as his music finally hit the atmosphere and the hall which was filled to the capacity with guests finally had a swell time.
Other Artistes who performed on stage included Evangelist Taiwo Omotunde, Kenny Ologoara and others.
The programme featured song presentation by students of Omoyeni Basic Special School, Orita Aperin, Ibadan for the launch of Zion Foundation.
Highlights of the glamorous occasion was the launch of the Biography Book, and the foundation. Evangelist (Dr) Funmi Aragbaiye also made a cash donation for the less privileged.
The programme featured award presentation to some peesonalities including Award of Father of the Nation to Chief Olusegun Okikiola Obasanjo
