The former Deputy President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Hon. Joseph Iranola Akinlaja, has commended the youths of Ondo City for celebrating his 76th birthday in grand style on Monday, June 1, 2026, at Adoc Events Centre, Ondo City.
In high spirits, the veteran labour leader emphasized that he made no financial contribution to the elaborate ceremony, which was entirely organized and funded by the youths.
The event attracted distinguished personalities, including former Governor of Ondo State, Dr. Olusegun Mimiko, Speaker of the State Assembly, Rt. Hon. Olamide Oladiji, as well as other prominent sons and daughters of the state.
Speaking with the Publisher of Veracity Desk (veracitydesk.com), Emmanuel Ajibulu, Akinlaja revealed that hundreds of youths pooled resources by contributing as little as ₦1,000, ₦2,000, and ₦5,000.
These modest donations collectively grew into substantial funding that powered the success of the memorable celebration.
“I must emphasize that our youths are vital assets for building a sustainable, vibrant, and enviable future for Ondo Kingdom. I urge them to remain law-abiding, united, productive, and wise. Nigerian youths, especially those from Ondo, are known for intelligence, industriousness, and resourcefulness. These virtues must be nurtured and expanded for generations yet unborn,” Akinlaja stated.
He expressed astonishment at the arrangements, noting that he was pleasantly surprised when he began receiving calls from eminent personalities who had seen billboards announcing his birthday. “Upon inquiry, I discovered that this grand celebration was entirely the handiwork of our youths. For this, I say: God bless them abundantly,” he said.
Akinlaja explained that he only celebrates milestone birthdays every decade, with his last being his 70th in Abuja and Ondo.
“In 2026, the youths of Ondo Kingdom changed the narrative and spotlighted me in grand style. This is phenomenal, and I do not take this gesture for granted,” he added.
He further highlighted the diverse contributions, saying some donated as little as ₦1,000, others provided table water, soft drinks, wines, and even a cow.
Remarkably, five musicians performed for several hours without charging a fee. “This is unbelievable,” he remarked.
Looking ahead, Akinlaja pledged to continue encouraging youths to excel in diverse fields such as tourism, agriculture, fintech, sports, politics, education, and research.
He urged them to remain steadfast as excellent ambassadors, ultimately shaping a brighter future for Nigeria.
