By Oki Samson
Lagos witnessed a spectacular evening of praise and worship on Sunday, as the Board Member of the Lagos State Security Trust Fund (LSSTF) and Chairman of Executive Group, Dr. Ayo Ogunsan, celebrated his 49th birthday with the fifth edition of the Gospel Hymns and Songs Birthday Concert.
The event, held on October 12, 2025, drew an impressive convergence of dignitaries from across business, politics, law enforcement, and the clergy, all gathered to honour Dr. Ogunsan in an atmosphere filled with gratitude and reverence.
Among the notable attendees were the Odole Oodua and Chairman of Premier Lotto, Sir Kessington Adebutu; Chairman of Gibraltar Construction, Sir Olu Okeowo and his wife, Lady Adejoke Okeowo; Consular General of China, Yan Yuqing; Managing Director of First Bank, Mr. Segun Alebiosu; and the Executive Secretary of LSSTF, Dr. Abdurrazaq Balogun.
Also in attendance were top Lagos State Government officials including the Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi; Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Mrs. Folashade Ambrose-Medebem; Commissioner for Housing, Hon. Akinderu Fatai; Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Hon. Mobolaji Ogunlende; and Special Adviser on Climate Change, Dr. Titi Oshodi.
The event was graced by senior security chiefs and law enforcement officers, including former DIG Force CID, Abiodun Alabi (retd.); former DIG Operations, Bode Adeleke (retd.); AIG Zone 2, Adegoke Fayoade; AIG Margaret Ochalla of Force CID Annex, Alagbon; and Lagos Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh.
Dr. Ogunsan, known for his dynamic leadership and deep Christian faith, opened the night with a heartfelt rendition of classic hymns that set a reflective and joyful tone for the concert. He performed soul-stirring pieces such as “I’d Rather Have Jesus” and “Jesus, You Are the Center of My Joy,” drawing the audience into worship.
Adding a family touch, his daughter, Mercy Ogunsan, performed virtually with a moving rendition of “Jesus Wept,” a song written by her mother, Dr. (Mrs.) Ajoke Ogunsan. The entire Ogunsan family later took the stage to sing “Great Is Thy Faithfulness,” receiving a standing ovation from the audience.
Other performers included Professor Albert, who rendered “You Deserve the Glory,” and Pastor Wale Dosunmu, who led worshippers in “Righteousness, Peace, and Joy in the Holy Ghost.” The Young Executives Forum choir also inspired the congregation with “I Am Part of the Family of God.”
A memorable highlight came when Dr. Ogunsan joined Pastors Taiwo Olasunkanmi and Taiwo Adeniran to perform the Yoruba hymn “Oreofe Sha,” dedicated to Sir Kessington Adebutu, who will turn 90 in a few days. Dr. Ogunsan described Adebutu as a father figure and expressed deep gratitude for his mentorship and generosity.
The worship atmosphere intensified when Sir Olu Okeowo led a medley of classics including “Glory Be to God in the Highest” and “Hosanna, Blessed Be the Name of the Lord.” The First Bank CEO, Mr. Alebiosu, also joined in singing “We Bless You, O Lord of Heaven and Earth.”
In a heartwarming cultural moment, the Chinese Consular General, Yan Yuqing, sang a happy birthday song for Dr. Ogunsan in Mandarin, drawing cheers and applause from the crowd. She also humorously noted her Nigerian nicknames — Ayo, Uchechukwu, and Fatima — symbolizing cross-cultural friendship.
The event reached its crescendo as gospel minstrel and music minister, Dr. (Mrs.) Ajoke Ogunsan, thrilled the audience with five original songs, including “Oba Nla,” “You Lifted Me,” and “All Creation Bow Before You.” Her performance drew widespread admiration and emotional worship across the hall.
She also used the occasion to announce the forthcoming launch of her debut gospel album scheduled for December 2025, inviting dignitaries and worshippers to be part of the celebration.
For Dr. Ogunsan, the 49th birthday concert was more than an anniversary — it was an expression of gratitude and a testimony of faith. He dedicated the evening to glorifying God for His grace and reaffirmed his life’s purpose of leadership, service, and devotion to Christ.
