A former chairman of Ikoyi Club, Lagos, Chief Akinbayo Adenubi, speaks with Godfrey George about life at 80, growing up in Lagos and related issues.
**Turning 80**
I turned 80 on 11 November 2022. For me, reaching that age is simply a matter of the calendar, provided one is fortunate enough to enjoy good health. Seventy used to be a major milestone, but today we thank God for the chance to grow older. When I reached 80, I thought, “Well, I am here,” and felt great joy, knowing that the average life expectancy in Nigeria makes reaching 80 a real achievement. I never expected to live this long, but I am grateful to God for sound health. At 79 I felt anxious and hoped to see 80; when it arrived, my soul was filled with joy.
**Celebration and routine**
My birthday was marked by a modest, unplanned gathering at my home, organised by my children. I danced for more than two hours, received many gifts, and was surrounded by friends and family who were happy for me. I keep active by walking around my estate four times a week for at least an hour, and I play golf twice a week—sometimes three times when I’m lucky. My strict exercise regimen is finally paying off.
**Sources of fulfillment**
I feel extremely fortunate to have solid family support; my wife, children and grandchildren give me a deep sense of fulfillment. I have also been privileged to serve in many voluntary organisations. Although it has been years since I was chairman of Ikoyi Club, members still hail me as “Chairman Emeritus,” which makes me proud. I was elected an honorary member, a special kind of membership, reflecting my lifelong commitment.
In 1978 I moved from Ibadan to Lagos to become Director of Studies for the Nigerian Institute of Bankers, serving four years before becoming Registrar for 14 years. Though I retired 26 years ago, I could not have asked for more. I also served as President of the Nigerian Institute of Management. On my 80th birthday the Institute placed a one‑page newspaper advert celebrating my contributions—a surreal honour that showed my work was recognised.
Service to mankind has always fascinated me. In the estate where I live, I have served as chairman, and every opportunity to serve brings fulfillment.
**Childhood memories**
My parents and close friends were critical to my early journey. My father, a teacher and headmaster, profoundly influenced me, though I only fully appreciated his impact about ten years ago. I wanted to be a teacher, so during university vacations I taught at a primary school where he was headmaster. After graduating, I continued teaching while many peers pursued jobs in UAC, the civil service or multinationals.
I taught at all levels: four years at Igbobi College, then at the University of Ibadan and the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University) – one year in Ife and three in Ibadan – and later at a polytechnic before moving to Lagos. In Lagos I applied directly for the Director of Studies position, overseeing programmes and interventions, eventually becoming chief executive.
My father was a man of integrity, never taking a kobo from the teachers’ contributions he managed for 25 years. He taught me the value of saving by example, not instruction. A year ago I wrote a 70‑page book titled *My Father, My Hero* and printed a few copies for close friends.
**Friendships**
I have been blessed with childhood friends who remain close after more than 50 years. Through the Methodist Boys High School old‑boys association we meet regularly, and our wives know us by the matching attire we wear. One best friend was always there in trouble, and vice‑versa. I also count later friends such as former governor Segun Osoba and Senator Badamosi among my close circle; both attended my 80th birthday despite busy schedules.
Some friendships endure despite distance. A friend who lived in the United States for almost 50 years returned recently and fit in as if he had never left. Childhood friendships are precious; many realise their value only later in life.
**Life in Lagos**
I was born and raised in Lagos, a true Lagos boy. In 1962 Surulere was a village; my parents moved there while I stayed on the Island, walking three to five kilometres each morning to Methodist Boys School. There was no Eko Bridge, only the old Carter Bridge, and no Third Mainland Bridge. Yaba was known as “Garden City,” home to the elite, while the Island was largely white‑dominated; Ikoyi Club’s membership was 90 % white. Lagos was small, traffic‑free and beautiful.
Today Lagos is chaotic, with heavy traffic and poor management, yet it remains Nigeria’s richest state. The city is growing faster than its administrators can handle, but I still love it. I prefer the once‑beautiful, manageable Lagos of the past, though I recognise that it will never return.
**Independence and the nation**
I left secondary school in December 1960, just after Nigeria’s independence in October. I remember the September 30 ceremony, the gunshots, the Union Jack being lowered and the new flag raised, and singing the old national anthem. I was about 18 then. While I consider myself an incurable optimist and believe Nigeria has made progress, there is still much to improve, especially in resource control, security and democratic continuity.
**Marriage and family**
My wife, born and raised in Ibadan, and I met as friends. Our love grew over more than 50 years of marriage; it deepened with time rather than a sudden spark. Now, with our children grown and away, we cherish each other’s company, and she always looks forward to my return.
Marriage, family and fatherhood have taught me that there is no textbook for marriage. One must treat a spouse as a friend, never take them for granted, and never resort to violence. A loving partnership is built on mutual respect and companionship.
**Fitness**
From my university days I have loved sports. I have been a gym regular for over 40 years and now play golf twice a week. Before becoming Ikoyi Club chairman, I chaired its sports section. Games remain a vital, effortless part of my life.
**Election advice**
As Nigeria approaches an election season, I advise voters to remember that elections are not matters of life and death. May the best candidate win, and let us not betray the trust of the families who want us alive.
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