As she celebrates her birthday today, Mrs. Akanji is being honoured by members of United Vanguard Club ’88, Oyo, for a life distinguished by service, compassion, and enduring strength. The Club proudly celebrates its revered Patroness, whose inspiring journey continues to shape lives and communities.
Born on February 17, 1956, Mrs. Akanji hails from the prestigious Oshinkola ruling family of Ile-Ife, with royal ancestry linked to the household of Oba Adesoji Aderemi of blessed memory. She was born to the late Papa Joshua Adegoke Adeyemo and Mama Niniola Asabi Adewoyin, both of whom instilled in her the values of discipline, humility, and dedication to community service.
Her educational journey began at Central Primary School, Ilare, Ile-Ife, between 1963 and 1968. She later attended Oduduwa College, Ile-Ife, from 1969 to 1974, where she built the academic and moral foundation that shaped her lifelong passion for education and mentorship.
Mrs. Akanji began her professional career as an auxiliary teacher in Ifetedo, demonstrating an early commitment to nurturing young minds. She later attended Grade II Teachers’ Training College in Ilesha between 1975 and 1976. Upon completion, she taught at Army Children School, Iseyin, and St. Andrew’s Demonstration School, Oyo, now affiliated with Ajayi Crowther University, between 1976 and 1978.
In her pursuit of academic excellence, she enrolled at the then Abeokuta College of Education, Igbein, where she obtained her Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE) in 1982. She subsequently served her nation through the National Youth Service at the Cultural Centre, Agodi, Ibadan, before continuing her teaching career at Oba Adeyemi Secondary School, Oyo, from 1982 to 1986.
In a remarkable display of dedication to family and partnership, Mrs. Akanji later trained at Oluyoro School of Midwifery to support her late husband, Dr. Ademola Olanrewaju Akanji, in his private medical practice at Providence Hospital, Owode, Oyo. Their marriage, solemnised in 1980, remains a shining example of love, commitment, and strong family values, blessed with wonderful children who continue to uphold their legacy.
Spiritually, Mrs. Akanji’s faith journey reflects profound growth and unwavering devotion. Born into the Anglican tradition and later connected to the Baptist faith through marriage, her spiritual walk eventually led her to Living Faith Church Worldwide (Winners’ Chapel), where she continues to enjoy spiritual fulfilment and divine grace.
Beyond her personal and professional accomplishments, Mrs. Akanji remains a pillar of wisdom, motherly guidance, and moral strength to United Vanguard Club ’88, Oyo. As Patroness, she exemplifies the club’s ideals of unity, progress, and community development. Her life story, defined by resilience, humility, and service, continues to inspire members and associates alike.
This special lifestyle publication, facilitated by United Vanguard Club ’88, Oyo, celebrates not only the birthday of a distinguished matriarch but also the enduring legacy of a woman whose life reflects purpose, faith, and compassionate leadership.
As she marks another year of grace and accomplishment today, United Vanguard Club ’88, Oyo proudly celebrates its Patroness, a symbol of strength, elegance, and timeless inspiration.
