Margaret Apara at 70: Elegance, grace as dignitaries celebrate matriarch in Akure
By Julius Alabi, Akure
It was a day of warmth, elegance and heartfelt tributes as family members, friends and dignitaries from across the country gathered to celebrate, a renowned teacher, an educationist, Mrs. Foluso Margaret Apara on the occasion of her 70th birthday.
The colourful event, held at her residence in Alagbaka, Akure, the Ondo State capital, drew an array of prominent personalities, including political leaders, community figures, associates and well-wishers, all united in honour of a woman widely described as compassionate, graceful and deeply committed to humanity.
The atmosphere was festive, with the beautifully decorated venue reflecting the celebrant’s refined taste and enduring legacy.
The Area Overseer of Ondo State, Rev. Joseph Adeboye Aro in his sermon, expressed gratitude to God for the life of Mrs. Foluso Margaret Apara, noting that her journey has been marked by trials and triumphs.
He remarked that she had “gone through many waters,” yet remained steadfast in faith, a testament to God’s sustaining grace over her life.
Reading from Psalm 136:1–4, the cleric emphasized the enduring mercy and faithfulness of God, stressing that the gathering was not merely to mark a milestone but to celebrate divine goodness.
He reminded the congregation that it is by God’s mercy that one is preserved through life’s storms and brought into seasons of joy.
Rev. Aro urged Mrs. Apara and the congregation to remain conscious of God’s purpose in their lives, adding that longevity comes with greater responsibility.
According to him, God expects deeper reflection, renewed commitment, and a more careful walk with Him as one advances in age.
He further encouraged the celebrant to continue to trust in God’s guidance, noting that the journey ahead requires wisdom, patience, and unwavering faith.
He said that having come thus far, it is important to remain rooted in righteousness and committed to serving God and humanity.
The cleric concluded by offering prayers for continued strength, good health, and divine protection for Mrs. Apara, expressing confidence that the same God who has sustained her thus far will continue to uphold her in the years ahead.
In his welcome address, Pastor Àdeniyi Ademola described Mrs. Margaret Apara at 70 as a symbol of elegance and grace, noting that she remains a rock of strength to her family and all who come in contact with her.
He portrayed her as an amiable and compassionate woman, whose warmth, humility and unwavering faith have endeared her to many, adding that her life stands as a testament to selfless service, resilience and godly virtue.
According to him, her journey over the past seven decades reflects a legacy of love, integrity and impactful relationships, making her a beacon of inspiration to both the young and the old.
Guests were treated to a rich blend of music and goodwill messages, creating a memorable celebration befitting a septuagenarian of remarkable influence.
In their separate tributes, speakers
extolled Mrs. Apara’s virtues, describing her as a pillar of strength, a devoted mother and a role model whose life has positively impacted many within and beyond her community.
They praised her unwavering commitment to family values, philanthropy and service, noting that her 70 years have been marked by purpose, humility and resilience.
Several dignitaries who graced the occasion lauded her contributions to social development and her support for initiatives that uplift the less privileged, emphasizing that her legacy of kindness continues to inspire a new generation.
Family members, visibly elated, expressed gratitude to God for the gift of her life, recounting fond memories and her enduring influence as a nurturing figure whose guidance has shaped many destinies.
In his remarks, her husband, Mr. Jide Apara, expressed profound gratitude to God for the gift of her life, describing her as a steadfast pillar and a source of strength behind his successes.
He noted that she embodies true motherhood, having stood firmly by his side in moments of triumph and in times of adversity, offering unwavering support, resilience and love.
In her response, an emotional Mrs Foluso Margaret Apara thanked guests for honouring her with their presence, attributing her journey and accomplishments to God’s grace.
She urged younger generations to remain steadfast in faith, uphold integrity and embrace service to humanity.
The celebration reached its peak with the cutting of the birthday cake, accompanied by cheers and goodwill messages, as guests joined in celebrating a life well lived.
As the evening drew to a close, it was evident that the 70th birthday of Mrs. Foluso Margaret Apara was not just a celebration of age, but a tribute to a legacy of love, impact and enduring grace.
