Erelú Bisi Adeleye-Fayemi At 56. By Bamidele Ademola-Olateju
On her way to making a presentation at the Beijing Platform a few weeks ago, she called to tell me she was traveling. We discussed her itinerary. I was surprised to know that serious work is ongoing since the fourth World Conference on Women: Action for Equality, Development and Peace in 1995. Weeks later she traversed Europe to lecture and still found time to be with a dear friend and spend time. Erelú is one of those women who work through the clock to ensure the rights of women and procure the incremental progress that is catapulting women to success and leadership around the world.
I celebrate my friend on her birthday today, because she is a leader with enviable comportment and a pride to women. Here is woman who lives her mission. She has a fierce commitment to improving the lives of those around her. Her work as a gender specialist and an advocate for the female gender is a lifetime of commitment, to promoting and connecting the efforts of women as a step to ensuring that women in Nigeria and Africa can fulfill their potential.
As a political wife, the first lady of Ekiti State, with intimidating resume of her own, she’s walked that thin line of making input but leaving the substance to her husband. One on one, she is very suave, accessible and simple. Yes, simple! To my surprise and comfort, she held my hand at a very difficult time making sure I stay positive. Her calls and words of encouragement and support made those gloomy days brighter.
Since we became friends, Erelú has shown me that leadership is a choice, and she has chosen to lead. She also validated something I have always known, a good and successful leader takes responsibility and creates the future. Happy birthday Erelú. May you conquer more frontiers. May the coming years be good to you. May your home continue to enjoy tranquility. May your zeal to serve and lead meet with more opportunities. Friends, please celebrate my friend with me. Thank you.
