BY NONYELUM JULIET
Abuja
It promises to be a grand celebration this weekend in the Federal Capital Territory as renowned development practitioner and former Special Adviser to the Governor of Ekiti State on Development Partnerships and SDGs, Dr. Margaret Fagboyo, marks her golden jubilee in style.
The 50th birthday celebration, scheduled to take place at the BMO Event Arena, RiverPlate Park, Abuja, will attract an array of high-profile dignitaries from across the country, reflecting the celebrant’s towering professional and social influence.
Leading the guests expected at the occasion is the Executive Governor of Ekiti State, Mr. Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji (BAO), alongside his predecessors, Dr. Kayode Fayemi and Otunba Niyi Adebayo. Also expected is the wife of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Mrs. Regina Akume, who will join in honouring the Ekiti-born development expert.
Other prominent personalities lined up for the event include the First Lady of Ondo State, Mrs. Seun Aiyedatiwa; Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun; Senator Yemi Adaramodu (Ekiti South); Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye; several members of the House of Representatives, top government officials, civil society leaders, diplomats, and international development partners.
Dr. Fagboyo, who was born on June 23, 1975, hails from the respected Bello family of Oke-Emo Quarters in Ilawe-Ekiti. A consummate development professional with more than two decades of experience, she currently serves as the Director of Development at the African Centre for Leadership, Strategy & Development (Centre LSD), one of Nigeria’s foremost think tanks on strategic leadership and sustainable development.
Her distinguished career includes an impactful tenure as Special Adviser on Development Partnerships and SDGs in Ekiti State under the Fayemi administration (2019–2023). Before her foray into public service, Dr. Fagboyo made remarkable contributions within the UK’s Department for International Development (DFID), where she rose to the position of Regional Coordinator and Acting Head of Office, overseeing programmes in the South West, South South, and South East regions of Nigeria.
Recognised for her advocacy on gender equity and social inclusion, Dr. Fagboyo has continued to champion institutional reforms, capacity building, and inclusive development across Nigeria and the African continent.
Speaking to journalists in Abuja ahead of the celebration, Dr. Fagboyo expressed deep optimism about Nigeria’s future, while also reflecting on her personal journey and expectations for the country.
“My vision for Nigeria is one of hope, transformation, and inclusive growth,” she said. “I long to see a Nigeria where leadership is driven by integrity, accountability, and a genuine desire to serve—not self. A Nigeria where our diversity becomes our strength, not a source of division.”
She emphasized the need for institutions that function effectively, where “justice is blind, opportunities are accessible, and every citizen feels seen, heard, and valued.”
According to her, “We must rise beyond corruption, insecurity, and poverty. We need to prioritize education, invest in healthcare, secure our streets, and harness our vast human and natural resources for the common good.”
Dr. Fagboyo expressed faith in the resilience and brilliance of Nigerians, stating that with vision, courage, and collective action, the nation can achieve transformation that benefits all.
On turning 50, the mother of three and wife to a supportive husband described the milestone as a moment of gratitude and introspection.
“Life has been good to me, though not without its challenges. Every high and low has shaped who I am today—stronger, wiser, and more grounded,” she stated.
“If I have any regrets, it would be those times I doubted myself, delayed my dreams, or dimmed my light to make others comfortable. But even those experiences came with lessons that have enriched my journey.”
With a renewed sense of purpose, Dr. Fagboyo said she looks forward to embracing the next chapter of her life with “intention, joy, and courage.”
The event this weekend is expected to be both a celebration of personal milestones and a reflection of the profound impact of one woman’s dedication to national development and social transformation.
