In a solemn yet celebratory gathering, Olusegun Obasanjo and his family convened at the Chapel of Christ the Glorious King inside the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL), Abeokuta, Ogun State, to mark the 20th memorial service of his late wife, the former First Lady Stella Obasanjo.

The event on Saturday drew prominent guests including former governors Gbenga Daniel and Ibikunle Amosun, as well as family members, friends and well-wishers. The Nation Newspaper

A life celebrated: “We are celebrating a life of service”

Speaking briefly after the service, Obasanjo said, “We are celebrating a life of service.”
Inside the church service, Stella’s younger brother, John Abebe, described her as someone who

“you just couldn’t get angry with because she would always smile through everything, every difficulty.” According to The Nation Newspaper

He recalled how her simple presence after family loss reduced grief

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“With her smile and the huge encouragement she gave my parents, the grief was reduced.”

Meanwhile, her only son Olumuyiwa Obasanjo reflected on her parenting

“She was caring and protective … but also strict and would not tolerate any deviation from you. So I have kept that in mind, and I have continued to try to live my life that way.”

Legacy, impact and remembrance

Former Governor Gbenga Daniel expressed gratitude for Stella Obasanjo’s legacy

“We thank God for her life. Twenty years down the line, the legacy she left behind… will continue to miss her motherly support.”

He noted that during his gubernatorial term a motherless home was named in her honour underscoring the enduring reach of her influence.

In the sermon, Rev. Yusufu Obaje described Stella Obasanjo as a woman whose life was marked by submission to divine will and exemplary conduct. Osun Defender

As the 20-year mark passes, the gathering in Abeokuta served not just as a remembrance, but as a renewed commitment to emulate Stella Obasanjo’s virtues of kindness, service and resilience. Her smiling presence and supportive nature remain a guiding light for her family and the wider community.

From dignitaries to family, the service paid tribute not only to a former First Lady but to a woman whose quiet generosity and steady guidance left a lasting mark. In the words of her brother:

“Sister Stella was somebody you just couldn’t get angry with … her smile and huge encouragement …”
Her legacy lives on through her son, grandchildren, and the lives she touched.

Her life may have ended two decades ago, but the service of Stella Obasanjo continues.