The Banquet Hall of the Sheraton Hotel in Ikeja, Lagos, was transformed into a dazzling spectacle of elegance and celebration on Saturday, February 8, as Nigeria’s crème de la crème gathered to honor Archbishop Designate Isaac Idahosa on his 60th birthday. The event, a masterclass in sophistication, was a testament to the revered clergyman’s influence across religious, political, and social spheres.
The hall, adorned with vibrant decorations and bathed in soft, golden light, buzzed with excitement as guests arrived in their finest attire. At the centre of it all was Archbishop Idahosa, resplendent in a black tuxedo accented with silver linen, exuding an air of grace and poise. The General Overseer of Illumination Assembly and 2023 Vice Presidential Candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) was the picture of joy as he mingled with guests, his smile lighting up the room.
The guest list read like a who’s who of Nigeria’s most influential figures. From politics, Senator Dr. Rabiu Kwankwaso, the 2023 Presidential Candidate and National Leader of the NNPP, graced the occasion alongside His Excellency, Governor Mohammed Umar Bago of Niger State. Former Cross River State Governor Donald Duke and former Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Emmanuel Ibe Kachikwu, added their star power to the event. The sports world was well-represented too, with ex-Super Eagles stars Victor Ikpeba, Julius Aghahowa, and legendary goalkeeper Peter Rufai in attendance.
The religious community was not left out, with prominent figures like Pastor Ituah Ighodalo of Trinity House, Bishop Stephen Adegbite, Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Lagos State, and Pastor Chris Okafor of Liberation City joining in the celebration. The diverse gathering was a testament to Archbishop Idahosa’s far-reaching impact and the respect he commands across sectors.
As the evening unfolded, the atmosphere grew even more electric. The event reached its climax with the presentation of special recognition awards by the Bishop Isaac Idahosa Foundation. These awards honoured individuals who have made exceptional contributions to Nigeria’s development. Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State received the Excellence in Infrastructural Development Award for his innovative urban and rural development initiatives. Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso was honoured with the Lifetime Political Leadership Excellence Award for his unwavering commitment to nation-building. Governor Mohammed Umar Bago of Niger State was celebrated with the Agricultural Transformation & Rural Development Award for his groundbreaking work in agriculture. Former Minister Ibe Kachikwu was recognized for Excellence in Public Service & Policy Reform, while Donald Duke took home the Tourism Development & Economic Innovation Award for his transformative efforts in Cross River State.
The night was not just about accolades; it was a celebration of unity, legacy, and the enduring spirit of service. As the clock struck midnight, guests raised their glasses in a heartfelt toast to the man of the hour, Archbishop Isaac Idahosa, whose life and work continue to inspire generations. The evening ended with laughter, music, and a sense of camaraderie that will be remembered for years to come.
In a world often divided by differences, this event stood as a shining example of what can be achieved when people come together to celebrate excellence and service. Archbishop Idahosa’s 60th birthday was not just a milestone for him but a moment of pride for all who were fortunate enough to witness it.
Seunmanuel Faleye is a brand and communications strategist. He is a covert writer and an overt creative head. He publishes Apple’s Bite International Magazine.
