How Prominent Nigerians Celebrate Dr. Gloria Laraba Shoda’s Platinum Birthday
…Plus: Her Global Influence and Enduring Legacy in Africa
By The Editor
Sagamu, the headquarters of Remoland in Ogun State, came alive on Sunday, November 16, 2025, as prominent Nigerians from across the country, including serving and retired senior military officers, gathered to celebrate the 70th birthday of an African Amazon and iconic national figure, Dr. Gloria Laraba Shoda.
A Gathering of National Figures
Among the high-profile attendees were the former Nigerian High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Ambassador Sarafa Tunji Ishola; former governor of Ogun State and current Senator representing Ogun East, Senator Gbenga Daniel; and Senator Iyabo Obasanjo-Bello, daughter of former President Olusegun Obasanjo, who was also represented by his wife, Chief Bola Obasanjo.
Also in attendance were former and current members of the House of Representatives, including Hon. Jelili Amusan, Hon. Gboyega Nasir Isiaka (GNI), and Hon. Adesola Ayoola Elegbeji; as well as spouses of former national leaders, political heavyweights, and other distinguished guests.
The presence of revered traditional rulers added royal elegance to the ceremony. Among them were the Akarigbo and Paramount Ruler of Remoland, HRM Oba (Dr.) Babatunde Adewale Ajayi, the Elepe of Epe Sagamu, Oba Adewale Osiberu, the Ologere of Ogere, and the Radanuwa of Idado, Oba Musiliu Soile, alongside many others.
Thanksgiving Before the Celebration
Earlier that morning, Dr. Shoda led her family and specially invited guests to a Thanksgiving service at the Methodist Church, where heartfelt prayers were offered for her continued long life, sound health, divine protection, and prosperity.
Her husband, Colonel Emmanuel Shoda (Retd.), her children — including one who currently serves as a Colonel in the Nigerian Army — friends, and close associates made the thanksgiving moment deeply memorable.
In the presence of Senator Daniel and other dignitaries, the church reverberated with prayers of gratitude and blessings for the celebrant and her family.
A Grand Arrival at the Venue
Dr. Shoda later arrived at Innova Place, the venue of the celebration, where she received a standing ovation from the guests who had eagerly awaited her entry. Photographers and videographers rushed in to capture the moment, creating an atmosphere of glamour befitting the occasion.
The Master of Ceremony, renowned actor and broadcaster Yemi Sodimu, formally announced her arrival and immediately began to extol her virtues — lifting the mood of the event higher.7
The Apala music maestro, Musiliu Aruna Ishola, serenaded the audience with live performances, while Mr. Sodimu intermittently recognized newly arrived dignitaries and representatives of various institutions and organizations to which Dr. Shoda has devoted her life of service.
Organizations Represented
Institutions and associations where she has served or made tremendous impact were fully represented, including: National Council of Women’s Societies (NCWS), Africa Regional Council of Women, ARCW, African League of Women Voters (ALWOV), Ogun State Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines & Agriculture (OGCCIMA), Moshood Abiola Polytechnic, Abeokuta, and Remo Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines & Agriculture (RECCIMA). And many others.
For Dr. Shoda, November 16, 2025, will remain a memorable milestone — a day she will forever cherish.
CLICK THIS LINK TO READ: Her Life Story, Global Influence, and Enduring Legacy in Africa
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