Saraki, Dangote, Kirk Franklin honour Aig-Imoukhuede at 60

It was an evening of glamour, music, family and heartfelt tributes as businessman and philanthropist, Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, celebrated his 60th birthday surrounded by family, friends, associates and an array of distinguished guests.

The celebration, held during the week, featured an elegant black-and-gold theme, with the venue decorated with lights and sophisticated touches that set the mood for the milestone birthday.

Aig-Imoukhuede, who turned up in a black suit and bow tie, warmly received guests alongside his wife, Ofovwe.

The couple exchanged greetings and shared cheerful moments with guests throughout the celebration.

Among the distinguished personalities who joined the celebrant were former President Olusegun Obasanjo, business mogul Aliko Dangote, former Senate President Bukola Saraki, who attended with his wife, Toyin, and former Edo State Governor, Adams Oshiomhole.

The gathering reflected the celebrant’s wide circle of relationships spanning business, politics, philanthropy and public service, with guests taking turns to celebrate him through their various relationships and experiences.

One of the memorable moments of the evening came when Aig-Imoukhuede stepped forward with his family to cut his birthday cake.

The four-tier white-and-gold cake stood prominently at the centre of the celebration as the celebrant and his family gathered around it. Amid cheers from guests, he cut the cake, smiling as members of his family shared the special moment with him.

Music also added colour to the celebration, with a performance by American gospel singer, Kirk Franklin, providing one of the highlights of the evening.

Another highlight came when the birthday boy and his wife danced to Franklin’s music. Aig-Imoukhuede, who was in high spirits, removed his tie and handed it to his wife before displaying his dance steps and singing along with the musician.

President Bola Tinubu also sent his felicitations. In a statement, the President commended Aig-Imoukhuede’s tenure as Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Access Bank, which began in 2002, noting that he led the institution through a period of substantial growth.

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He also acknowledged Aig-Imoukhuede’s roles as former President of the Nigerian Stock Exchange, founding Chairman of FMDQ Securities Exchange and Co-Chairman of EnterpriseNGR.

Beyond the glitz and celebration, Aig-Imoukhuede used the milestone to reflect on the journey that brought him to 60.

In a personal message shared on LinkedIn, he expressed gratitude to God for life, grace, family, friendship and the privilege of living with purpose.

He wrote, “Today, I turn 60. I receive this milestone with profound gratitude to God, for life, for grace, for family, for friendship, and for the privilege of purpose.”

Looking back on the different chapters of his life, Aig-Imoukhuede identified one idea that he said had remained constant throughout his journey: building.

“To build institutions. To build people. To build opportunities. To help build a stronger Africa,” he stated.

He also acknowledged the contribution of the people who had shared the journey with him, particularly his wife, Ofovwe, their children, family members, friends, colleagues, partners and mentors.

“Whatever has been accomplished has never been mine alone. I have been blessed with extraordinary people who have challenged me, supported me and shared in the work.”

The celebrant also paid tribute to his mother, Pastor Emily, and his close partner, Herbert, whose memories, he noted, remain an important part of his life story.

As the music played, guests raised their glasses, photographs were taken and the birthday cake was cut, giving the celebrant an opportunity to mark the milestone in the company of many of those who have been part of his journey.