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By Sola Rotimi
Elder statesman and former lawmaker, Senator Bisi Oyewo, has called for a shift in how birthdays are celebrated, urging both young and old to embrace gratitude and spirituality over elaborate festivities.
Speaking in an interview on the sidelines of his 86th birthday, the Senator described reaching such an age as a profound reason for thanksgiving rather than extravagance.
According to him, birthdays at his stage in life are less about social gatherings and more about acknowledging God’s grace in sustaining him through the years.
“At my age, a birthday is to thank God for the passage of time and for keeping me alive,” he said. “It is not about ‘Owambe’ celebrations, but about going to the house of God, kneeling in prayer, and appreciating His unmerited grace.”
To mark the occasion, Senator Oyewo revealed that he chose to give back to his church as a form of appreciation.
He donated a pulpit and supported the installation of a golden rail to complement it, describing the gesture as a symbolic act of gratitude, even though, in his words, “we cannot appreciate God’s grace enough.”
Reflecting on life and longevity, the senator emphasised the uncertainty of each new day, noting that reaching another birthday is never guaranteed.
He encouraged people to celebrate each year with humility and reflection.“If you have the opportunity of celebrating your birthday, celebrate it as if you may not have another,” he advised. “But let it be an appreciation of grace, not just a social display.”
Addressing the youth specifically, Oyewo cautioned against the illusion of permanent youth, stressing that aging is inevitable.
While acknowledging that he once embraced youthful exuberance, he said maturity brings a deeper understanding of life’s purpose.
“You can never be young forever,” he said. “At every stage of life, one must thank God more than focusing on ‘Owambe.’ When you look at what goes on around us, you will know there is every reason to count your blessings.”
The APC stalwart urged Nigerians to adopt a culture of daily thanksgiving, noting that life itself, along with provision, shelter, and family well-being, is reason enough for constant gratitude.
On politics, the octogenarian encouraged aspiring and emerging politicians to embrace mentorship as a vital part of leadership development.
He expressed concern that many people no longer value due process or the gradual rise to success, describing this trend as a major driver of corruption in the country.
Senator Oyewo, however, urged experienced politicians to guide and nurture younger ones, preparing them to assume leadership responsibilities in the near future.
