In a profound demonstration of compassion, institutional solidarity and shared humanity, the Visitor to Caleb University, Dr. Oladega Adebogun, has extended heartfelt condolences to renowned public administrator, elder statesman, respected community leader and member of the Lagos State Governance Advisory Council (GAC), Cardinal James Omolaja Odunmbaku (Baba Eto)
The visit, a profound demonstration of compassion, institutional solidarity and shared humanity, follows the passing of Cardinal Odunmbaku’s beloved wife, Mother Celestial Olasinmi Akindele Odunmbaku.
Although the Visitor was unavoidably absent, he delegated a high-powered management team, led by the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Olalekan Asikhia, to convey his personal condolences and those of the Governing Council and Management of Caleb University to the bereaved family.
Other members of the delegation were Prof. Sunday Adewale, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic); Prof. Adesola Ajayi, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research, Innovation, Strategy and Administration); Mr. Mayokun Olumeru, Registrar; Mr Oluseyi Shodimu, Mrs Oluyemi Olaore, Special Projects and Mr. Olawale Adekoya, Principal Information and Media Expert.
The delegation was warmly received at the Odunmbaku family residence, where prayers were offered for divine comfort, strength and the peaceful repose of the departed matriarch.
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Speaking on behalf of the Visitor, Prof Asikhia, described the late Mother Celestial Olasinmi Odunmbaku as an exceptional woman whose life embodied faith, humility, compassion and selfless service to God and humanity.
“On behalf of our esteemed Visitor, Dr. Oladega Adebogun, the Governing Council and the entire Caleb University community, I extend our deepest condolences to Cardinal James Odunmbaku and the entire family. The passing of a beloved spouse leaves a vacuum that words can scarcely fill, yet we are comforted by the exemplary life Mama lived.
“Her enduring legacy of faith, kindness, humility and unwavering devotion to God will continue to inspire all who were privileged to know her.
“We pray that Almighty God grants the family the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss and grants her gentle soul eternal rest.”
The late Mother Celestial Olasinmi Akindele Odunmbaku, who passed on June 25, 2026, was widely admired for her exemplary life of Christian service, humility and philanthropy.
A former Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development in Ondo State, she distinguished herself through her contributions to public service, women empowerment and grassroots development.
She was also a devoted leader of the Celestial Church of Christ and an unwavering pillar of support whose steadfast encouragement significantly complemented the illustrious public service career of her husband.
Fondly called Baba Eto, Cardinal James Omolaja Odunmbaku is one of Lagos State’s most respected elder statesmen.
A distinguished public administrator, accomplished political leader, member of the Lagos State Governance Advisory Council and Shepherd-in-Charge of the Celestial Church of Christ, City of God Cathedral, Akiode, Ojodu, he has, over several decades, earned widespread admiration for his exemplary leadership, statesmanship, philanthropy and enduring commitment to community development.
Responding to the delegation, an emotionally composed Cardinal Odunmbaku, in company of his Chief Of Staff, Hon. Olabode Sunday Olaniyan, expressed profound appreciation to the Visitor and Management of Caleb University for standing with him and his family during their moment of grief.
“My special gratitude goes to Dr. Oladega Adebogun, Proprietor of the Caleb Group of Schools and Founder/Visitor to Caleb University.
“He is a unique and exceptionally distinguished gentleman. For many years, when we had not met physically, we maintained a cordial and uncommon relationship founded on mutual respect and shared values.
“Caleb has become a second home to me, my family and my grandchildren. Caleb International College and Caleb British International School remain the schools of choice for my grandchildren because of the quality of education and moral values they represent.
“When we eventually met in person, our relationship blossomed into a genuine brotherhood. When Dr. Adebogun lost his aged mother, I considered it a sacred duty to lead a large delegation of my family, including my late wife, to identify with him during his moment of bereavement. We have shared a relationship built on sincerity, loyalty and mutual goodwill.
“I am deeply grateful to the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Olalekan Asikhia, for leading such a formidable delegation to console me. This is what true friendship is all about.
“It is often said that prosperity attracts companions, but adversity reveals genuine friends. Caleb University has demonstrated that enduring relationships are built on empathy, compassion and unwavering support.
“As a Christian who has wholly surrendered his life to our Lord Jesus Christ, I grieve the passing of my beloved wife, but I am greatly comforted by the assurance that she lived a fulfilled life of worship, service and unwavering devotion to God. I have no doubt that she now rests peacefully in the bosom of her Creator.
“Let us all remember that a day is coming when each of us shall give an account of our stewardship before God. Therefore, let us live lives worthy of emulation, guided by faith, integrity and service to humanity.”
Also speaking, the Registrar, Mr. Mayokun Olumeru, said Caleb University identifies with the Odunmbaku family because great institutions are built not only on academic excellence but also on compassion, shared values and genuine concern for humanity.
“At Caleb University, we believe that authentic leadership is demonstrated through empathy, solidarity and selfless service.
“Today, we have come not merely as representatives of an institution but as members of one family standing shoulder to shoulder with Baba Eto during this difficult season.
In a press statement after the visit, Principal Information and Media Expert, Caleb University, Olawale Adekoya, said the University’s presence was a heartfelt expression of sympathy and profound respect for one of Nigeria’s most distinguished elder statesmen.
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“This condolence visit reflects the enduring values upon which Caleb University is founded – love, compassion, integrity, excellence and service.
“We share in the grief of Cardinal James Odunmbaku and the entire family while celebrating the extraordinary life and enduring legacy of Mama Olasinmi Odunmbaku.
“As an institution committed to nation-building and responsible community engagement, Caleb University will continue to identify with eminent personalities whose lives exemplify integrity, sacrificial service and transformational leadership.”
Indeed, the visit underscored Caleb University’s unwavering commitment to building enduring relationships beyond the classroom and reaffirmed its belief that in moments of grief, genuine friendship, institutional solidarity and compassionate presence constitute some of life’s greatest comforts.
It was concluded with fervent prayers for the peaceful repose of the late Mother Celestial Olasinmi Akindele Odunmbaku and for divine comfort, strength and wisdom for Cardinal James Odunmbaku and the entire family as they navigate this season of bereavement.
Cami Ezenwa is a Writer, Editor, Publicist, Biographer and Journalism Trainer
He has worked with the Daily Times, Daily Independent, Financial Standard and Business Television to mention some.
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