President Bola Tinubu has congratulated Chief Sade Ogunbiyi, the Iyalode of Remoland and wife of renowned academic, journalist and entrepreneur, Dr. Yemi Ogunbiyi, on her 80th birthday, describing her as a shining example of excellence, service, and lifelong learning.
In a statement issued on Friday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President commended Chief Ogunbiyi’s outstanding contributions to education, public service, community development, and nation-building.
Tinubu noted that the octogenarian built an impressive career spanning education, university administration, banking, and business while maintaining a strong commitment to family and community service.
According to the President, “Her remarkable life journey shows that despite her over half a century of devotion to her husband and home, she did not stop fortifying herself with academic qualifications, both at home and abroad.”
Chief Ogunbiyi holds a first degree from the University of Ibadan and a Master’s degree in Educational Administration and Supervision. She taught English and Social Studies in Nigeria and the United States, including at Our Lady of Apostles Secondary School, Ijebu-Ode; Lane Middle School, Bedford, New York; and the United Nations International School, New York.
She later spent 10 years at the University of Ife, now Obafemi Awolowo University, serving as Chief Personnel and Administrative Officer across several faculties before joining NAL Merchant Bank, where she rose to become Human Resources Manager.
The President also highlighted her role in the private sector, noting that she served as Deputy Managing Director of Signal Health Nigeria Limited between 1996 and 2001.
“As her husband was recording remarkable strides in academics and later in journalism and book publishing, Mrs Ogunbiyi was also building a distinctive career, first as a local and international teacher, university administrator, and manpower manager at NAL Merchant Bank, and later as a wine merchant after retirement,” Tinubu said.
The President further praised her determination and professional accomplishments, saying, “Mrs Ogunbiyi’s life exemplifies dedication, resilience, and the pursuit of excellence. She has distinguished herself in every field she ventured into while remaining committed to family, faith, and community service.”
He added that her achievements serve as an inspiration to younger generations, particularly women seeking to balance family responsibilities with professional aspirations.
“Her story demonstrates that service to family and society can go hand in hand with personal growth, leadership, and professional success,” the President stated.
President Tinubu also praised Chief Ogunbiyi’s dedication to faith and service, noting that her strict Christian upbringing prepared her for a life of commitment to Christianity and community development.
As Iyalode of Remoland, Chief Ogunbiyi succeeded the late Chief HID Awolowo, the wife of the late nationalist leader, Chief Obafemi Awolowo.
Congratulating her on the milestone, the President said, “I wish her many more years of good health and happiness, along with her husband, Dr. Yemi Ogunbiyi.”
Chief Sade Ogunbiyi turns 80 on June 6, 2026.