It was a radiant atmosphere filled with joy, worship, and heartfelt tributes as family, friends, church leaders, and government officials gathered to celebrate the 50th birthday thanksgiving of Rev (Dr) Z. Femi Ibikunle in Ibadan.
The event which held today at the Assemblies of Church, Eleyele Ibadan, was not only a celebration of life but also a testimony of dedication to God’s work, humility in service, and impact across religious and political spheres.
Delivering the sermon, the Treasurer of Assemblies of God Church in Nigeria, Rev Dr Vincent Alaje, described the celebrant and his wife as his “children,” saying he felt like a proud father watching them flourish in ministry and public service.
“Femi and his wife are my children,” Rev Alaje declared with joy. “So, standing here today, I feel like a very proud father. The testimonies we’ve heard are a true testament of his person and character.”
Preaching from 1 Samuel 2:8 and Psalm 113:7–8 under the theme “From Grass to Grace,” Rev Alaje recalled how Ibikunle, as a young man, confided in him about his desire to go into ministry.
“I am glad to see how he has grown stronger after over two decades, with an unquenchable passion for God’s work,” he said. He urged the celebrant to “keep God’s vision alive, live purposefully, and continue to make an impact within the body of Christ and in public service.”
The Oyo State District Superintendent of Assemblies of God Church, Rev Vincent Ojukwu, gave an exhortation, praying that Ibikunle’s next decades would be marked by greater exploits.
In his tribute, the Oyo State CAN Chairman, Apostle Joshua Akinyemiju (rtd Colonel), described Ibikunle as “a humane, humble, and very simple servant of God who has continued to make the church proud.”
He added: “You are a great ambassador of Christ, even in public service. Do not derail from the path that has endeared you to many.”
One of Nigeria’s foremost fathers of faith, Rev Dr Samson Ajetomobi, President of Men of Issachar Ministry, was also present to pray and lend his weight to the significance of the celebration.
Governor Seyi Makinde’s Director-General of Protocol, Mr Gboyega Badejo, praised the governor for spotting Ibikunle’s rare gifts.
“Governor Makinde has a discerning spirit to recognize talents. That is why he appointed you to handle such a sensitive position to serve as a bridge between government and all religious communities,” Badejo said.
He went further to reveal a personal connection: “Even though I am not qualified by age to be your father, you call and relate with me as a father. Your humility and calmness in all situations are exceptional and worthy of emulation.”
Executive Assistant to the Governor on Persons Living with Disability Matters, Femi Timothy, shared how Ibikunle had become a trusted mentor.
“Through your wise counsel and guidance, you earned my trust. You have been more than a leader; you’ve been a mentor. I pray for many more fruitful years for you.”
Senior Special Assistant on Broadcast Media, Mrs Abosede Sodiq; Special Assistant on Political Matters, Deji Ola; and EA Administration, Rev Idowu Ogedengbe, also offered glowing tributes.
Ogedengbe recalled Ibikunle’s critical role during Makinde’s 2019 campaign. “He went about with the campaign like a pastor on a missionary field, entering every nook and cranny with the zeal of evangelism. Despite being a fellow Rev’d, he has manned the Interfaith Office beyond what I could have done myself. This makes me so proud of him.”
The celebrant’s children added emotional depth to the occasion. His second child, Grace, read from Psalm 90:12–17, while his eldest, Gloria, spoke on behalf of her siblings.
“My father is not just a dad; he is a friend, mentor, and role model,” Gloria said with visible emotion. “He doesn’t hold grudges, he forgives easily, and he listens patiently.
“Growing up, you could hardly tell the difference between his biological children and other kids he raised. He treats everyone fairly, regardless of tribe or religion. I could never ask for a better father,” Gloria stated.
Church board members, represented by Deacon Gbenga Oyebode and Ogunmoyewa Olaiya, highlighted Ibikunle’s devotion: “He personifies humility in its finest form.
“He is dynamic, energetic, and resilient. His ability to balance gospel ministry with service to the state is exceptional. This church will not know the treasure we have in Rev’d Ibikunle until the time he gets transferred from here to another church, I hope that day doesn’t come soon.”
Deji Ola praised the celebrant’s influence on political aides: “Your impact on the Association of Special Assistants and other committees in government where you served is immeasurable, both spiritually and materially.”
Former SA on Community Relations, Hon. Femi Josiah, and SA Islamic Affairs, Adewale Abdul-Rosheed, also paid tributes, while Benedict Akika, the Agbaakin of Olorunda Abaa, described him as “a bridge-builder who commands respect among politicians and across religious communities in the state.”
An Ibadan born US Navy veteran and PDP stalwart, Abayomi Fagbenro, urged him in his goodwill message, to “continue upholding the virtues that have endeared him to many, even across religious lines.”
The highlight of the event was cutting of the birthday cake, followed by lively music and a sumptuous reception. But for many, the most moving moment came when the celebrant himself spoke.
Unable to hide his joy, Rev’d Ibikunle danced vigorously before giving his remarks. “Words cannot describe how grateful I am. The memory of today will live with me forever,” he said.
He went down memory lane, recalling how he started out as a driver to Rev’d Alaje. “Despite being his driver, Rev Alaje and his wife treated me like their biological son. Their mentorship and love shaped me into the man and pastor I have become. I will forever be grateful.”
[Western Mirror]
