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20 years on, children to celebrate “Mama Toyin of Gbagi Market” legacy May 24
Two decades may have passed, but the memory of Mama Toyin of Gbagi Market still burns brightly in the hearts of her children and all who knew her.
Come 24th May 2025, the family of the late Deaconess Florence Ayinke Olufemi Eyebiokin will gather in Ibadan, Oyo State, to honour and celebrate the remarkable legacy of a woman whose life was defined by faith, enterprise, and compassion.
Born in December 1932 to the devout Christian family of late Chief Adeniyi Arimoro and late Madam Alice Adetutu Arimoro, Deaconess Florence Ayinke carved a remarkable life defined by service, industry, and faith.
She began her education at L.A. Primary School, Oke Bode, Ilesha. Following her primary education, she took up tailoring and quickly rose to prominence in the trade, earning a solid reputation across Ilesha and its environs for her craftsmanship.
As she matured, she met her husband, the late Solomon Olufemi Eyebiokin, a well-known socialite in Ijesha land.
Together, they moved to Ibadan where she transitioned from tailoring to textile trading, opening a thriving shop at the popular Gbagi market.
Her success in the fabric business earned her the affectionate moniker Mama Toyin.
A devout member of the Christ Apostolic Church both in Ibadan and in her husband’s hometown of Iloko Ijesha, Mama Toyin was deeply involved in religious and social groups. She was a noted philanthropist who touched many lives through acts of kindness and community service.
She served as Matron of the Morning Star Society and Egbe Imole Oke Isegun, Iloko Ijesha.
She was also a member of the Inner Circle Society, Ibadan, and rose to become its president before her passing.
Two decades after her death, her legacy continues to thrive through her six children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
The remembrance ceremony promises to be a celebration of a life well lived and the enduring impact of Mama Toyin on her family, church, and community.
