Two decades after her passing, family members, friends, and eminent Nigerians gathered in Abeokuta, Ogun State, to honour the life and legacy of Nigeria’s former First Lady, Mrs. Stella Obasanjo.
The memorial thanksgiving service, held at the Church of Christ the Glorious King, brought together political leaders, clerics, and members of the Obasanjo and Abebe families to celebrate what many described as “a life of compassion, grace, and service to humanity.”
Among the dignitaries in attendance were former President Olusegun Obasanjo, her widower; their son, Muyiwa Obasanjo; former Ogun State governors Gbenga Daniel and Ibikunle Amosun; as well as John Abebe, the late Mrs. Obasanjo’s younger brother.
Speaking briefly after the church service, former President Obasanjo said the occasion was not one of mourning but of gratitude.
“We are here to celebrate a life of service,” he said, describing his late wife as a woman who lived purposefully and devoted herself to the welfare of others.
Mrs. Obasanjo, who served as Nigeria’s First Lady between 1999 and 2005, died at the age of 59 following a surgical procedure in Spain on October 23, 2005.
In an emotional tribute, John Abebe recalled his sister’s warmth and optimism, describing her as a peacemaker whose smile could ease any pain.
“Sister Stella was someone you could never stay angry with,” he said.
“Even in the most difficult times, her smile could melt hearts. When our older brother passed away, she was the one who lifted my parents’ spirits and brought light back into our home, ” he added.
Abebe said the memory of her “infectious smile” remained a defining part of her legacy and a source of comfort to the family.
Her son, Muyiwa Obasanjo, described his mother as both nurturing and disciplined.
“She was loving and protective as an only child, that came naturally to her but she was also firm and would never tolerate cutting corners,” he said.
“That balance of care and principle continues to shape how I live my life today.”
Former governors Gbenga Daniel and Ibikunle Amosun also paid glowing tributes. Daniel, who governed Ogun State from 2003 to 2011, said the late First Lady’s kindness and maternal qualities inspired many initiatives during his tenure.
“We thank God for her life, for the legacy she left, her son, and grandchildren,” Daniel remarked.
“During my administration, we named a motherless babies’ home after her in recognition of her compassion and impact.
Amosun described Mrs. Obasanjo as a woman who redefined the role of First Lady through grace and dignity.
“She loved Nigeria deeply and represented the office with class,” Amosun said.
“She elevated the role and inspired respect. We will continue to pray that the Almighty grants her eternal rest.”
The service, officiated by clergy from the Church of Christ the Glorious King, was marked by solemn hymns and heartfelt tributes celebrating the late Mrs. Obasanjo’s devotion to national causes, women’s empowerment, and social welfare.
Friends and associates described her as a bridge-builder and advocate for the underprivileged — a woman whose compassion transcended status and politics.
As the congregation sang the closing hymn, attendees reflected on her enduring influence, not only as a former First Lady, but as a symbol of empathy and quiet strength.
Twenty years on, Stella Obasanjo’s life continued to resonate in the lives she touched and the values she embodied: service, grace, and humanity.
