Diamond Jubilee: A mother’s heart in a baby sister’s role: Celebrating a rare gem at 60. By Ladidi Al-Hassan

Diamond Jubilee: A mother’s heart in a baby sister’s role: Celebrating a rare gem at 60

When a sister grows into a mother, mentor and pillar of strength all in one lifetime, the story deserves to be told loudly and joyfully.

That is exactly how the Publisher of Ebony Herald International Magazine, Alhaji Lai Gidado, describes his younger sister, Adeyinka Ogunsola Unuigbe, a rare divine gift whose love and sacrifice rise far above the ordinary definition of sisterhood.

To my darling baby sister, who has, in every sense, been like a mother to me.

Reaching the age of 60, your Diamond Jubilee, is truly a rare blessing and a wonderful gift from God.

I warmly congratulate you on this remarkable milestone.

We were six in our dear mother, Kofoworola Aduni’s room, a priceless jewel who did not live long enough to enjoy the fruits of her labour.

Among the six of us were four girls and two boys. As fate would have it, Adeyinka Omotunde Amope, though you were number three, God made you a replacement for our mother.

You shouldered the burden of motherhood for your brothers and sisters and extended that same love and care to all our children; your mother’s grandchildren.

Dearest aburo mi, your immeasurable care and unquantifiable love at all times truly set you apart.

I am not surprised today as people testify to the kind of person you are within your community.

You are a clear replica of our mother (Ogbetire sile se teni ele ni). Please continue to be our worthy ambassador.

People from your workplace, place of worship, friends and family all attest to your rare and beautiful personality.

I pray that Almighty God will continue to answer all your prayers, and the prayers offered for you on this special occasion by friends, family and well-wishers.

Above all, may God bless you with sound health to celebrate many more glorious years on earth.

My epitome of care, I wish you a happy birthday, long life and prosperity as you journey on.

Congratulations and happy celebrations, Omo Ewi Otu, Omo Ewi Aroro, Aoko Omo Odoba Ausi, Omo Amuyan modi.