What began as a personal milestone quickly transformed into a powerful civic statement on Saturday, December 13, 2025, as the Iya Ewe of Epe Kingdom, Chief (Mrs.) Modupeola Lawal, marked her 70th birthday not with fanfare, but with food, faith, and frank conversations about the future of society. The septuagenarian took her celebration to the Thani-Oladunjoye Older People’s Foundation (TOOPF), Epe, where she distributed food palliatives to elderly residents, reminding many that leadership finds its truest meaning in service.
Accompanied by dignitaries and members of her charity organisation, De-Bulad Charities, Chief Lawal shared moments of warmth and prayer with the senior citizens, presenting packs of rice and garri as support during the festive season. The atmosphere was one of gratitude and quiet joy, amplified by songs, blessings, and heartfelt appreciation from the beneficiaries, many of whom described the visit as timely and deeply reassuring.
In recognition of her far-reaching impact across humanitarian, social, and leadership spheres, the celebrant received an honorary Doctorate Degree in Leadership and Humanitarian Services from the Global Rebirth Leadership University, United States of America.
The award was conferred by the institution’s Chancellor, Prof. Isaac Olaniyi, who decorated Chief Lawal at the centre and formally presented the plaque amid prayers from the elderly and guests. Prof. Olaniyi explained that the honour followed Senate approval, citing her “unwavering commitment to humanity and genuine care for the less-privileged.”
Reflecting on her life journey, Chief Lawal attributed her milestones to divine grace. She recalled losing her father at the age of seven, noting that “God’s faithfulness and loving-kindness” had sustained her through life’s valleys and peaks. Though based abroad, she said her heart remains firmly rooted in Epe, returning often to empower the vulnerable and support community initiatives. “I find joy in giving to the poor and the needy in the society,” she affirmed.
Her message, however, went beyond charity. In a stirring appeal, she urged Nigerians to embrace collective responsibility and ethical leadership. “I want to appeal to our people in Nigeria, to be their brothers’ keepers. It is not until you have heaven and earth, that you give,” she said, encouraging beneficiaries to also share with neighbours. Turning to governance, she added: “Our government should shun corruption and begin good governance that would make living standard of our people better. Epe is supposed to have developed far more than what we are having now.”
She lamented the absence of an orphanage in Epe and praised the Thani-Oladunjoye centre as a rare sanctuary for senior citizens, offering prayers for its director, Mr. Tunde Thani, whom she described as answering a divine calling.
Adding to the generosity, the Olori of the late Olu of Epe, Alhaja Aribike Adewale, presented each elderly resident with ₦5,000 alongside food items, encouraging them to cherish life and remain faithful to God. She commended Chief Lawal as “a true embodiment of love and a pillar of support,” praying for her continued strength, long life, and greater impact.
At the celebration, one message lingered clearly: at 70, Chief Modupeola Lawal is not slowing down, she is sounding a louder call for compassion, accountability, and shared humanity.
