...Family Declares July 20–26 Week-Long Celebration in His Honour
By Adeola Shittu
An atmosphere of joy, thanksgiving and heartfelt celebration enveloped the Celestial Church of Christ (CCC) Ona Ara Parish, Ijare, on Tuesday as family members, church leaders, worshippers and well-wishers gathered to celebrate the 90th birthday of the church's founder, Pa. Samuel Ilesanmi, fondly known as Baba Jogbojogbo.
The surprise celebration, held during a special church service, featured songs of praise, prayers and glowing tributes in honour of the revered cleric, whose nine decades of life have been defined by unwavering faith, spiritual leadership and dedicated service to God and humanity.
As the founder of CCC Ona Ara Parish, Ijare, Pa. Ilesanmi has remained a respected spiritual father and community leader, touching countless lives through Christian mentorship, evangelism and his commitment to promoting peace, unity and moral values. His impact within the Celestial Church of Christ and the wider Ijare community has earned him widespread admiration, with many affectionately referring to him as Baba Jubujubu.
The church service marked the beginning of a week-long programme organised by family members and the birthday planning committee to celebrate the nonagenarian's remarkable life and enduring legacy.
According to the organisers, activities will continue on Monday, July 20, with indoor games including Ayo Olopon, Draft and Challenge Games at Jogbojogbo Church, while a football tournament will commence later that day at the Anglican Grammar School Field, Ijare. Four teams are expected to compete in the knockout competition ahead of the grand finale scheduled for Wednesday, July 22.
The football championship, organisers said, is designed not only to celebrate the birthday of the respected cleric but also to promote youth engagement, sportsmanship and community unity.
Other highlights of the celebration include children's and grandchildren's games, poetry recitals and storytelling sessions on Thursday, July 23, while Friday, July 24, has been dedicated to an evening of memories and testimonies, where family members, friends and associates will share personal experiences of the celebrant's life and ministry, accompanied by music and entertainment.
The celebrations will culminate in a grand birthday reception expected to attract dignitaries, church leaders, family members, friends and community stakeholders who will gather to honour a man widely regarded as a symbol of humility, faith and selfless service.
The week-long activities will conclude with a special Thanksgiving Service on Sunday, July 26, at the church auditorium, featuring music ministration by Evangelist Tosin Odole.
As goodwill messages continue to pour in from across Ondo State and beyond, many have described Pa. Samuel Ilesanmi as a spiritual icon whose legacy extends beyond the pulpit through decades of mentorship, community development and unwavering commitment to Christian service.
For family members, church faithful and the Ijare community, the 90th birthday celebration is not only a tribute to a remarkable life but also an opportunity to celebrate a legacy that continues to inspire generations.