Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Tinubu, has endorsed a stage play aimed at immortalizing his grandmother, Alhaja Abibatu Mogaji. The play titled “Abibatu Mogaji, the Opera” is penned by renowned playwright Prof. Ahmed Yerima and produced by Ola Awakan.
Abibatu Mogaji, known as a business magnate and the Ìyál’ọ́jà (leader of market women) of Lagos, overcame significant challenges to achieve success and raised a child who would later become Nigeria’s president. Born on October 16, 1916, she passed away on June 15, 2013.
Tinubu expressed his excitement during a courtesy visit by Awakan, endorsing the project as a meaningful tribute to his grandmother through the arts. He pledged his support and willingness to collaborate on initiatives aimed at national development.
The stage production’s command performance is scheduled for July 9 at the New Banquet Hall, Presidential Villa, Abuja, with President Bola Tinubu as the special guest of honor. Additional performances will follow on July 11 at the NAF Centre, Abuja, and July 14 at the Glover Memorial Hall, Lagos.
Awakan expressed his happiness at having Seyi Tinubu’s involvement in the project, emphasizing its goal to celebrate the strength of motherhood and showcase the journey of Mama Mogaji, highlighting the importance of political mentorship.