The First Lady of Ogun State, Bamidele Abiodun, recently engaged in a candid interview with Naomi Chima, providing a glimpse into her upbringing, her role as the wife of Governor Dapo Abiodun, and her passion for social causes.

Educational Background and Early Influences

Bamidele Abiodun began her educational journey at The International School in Ibadan, Oyo State, where she completed her secondary education. Following that, she pursued a Bachelor of Science degree in Zoology at the prestigious University of Ibadan, graduating in 1988. Today, she is not only a dedicated public figure but also a proud mother of four children.

Reflecting on her upbringing, Bamidele shared how being the daughter of Professor Oladipo Oduye, a former Deputy Vice-Chancellor at the University of Ibadan, shaped her values and outlook on life. Growing up in an academic environment cultivated a profound sense of discipline and intellectual curiosity within her. She noted, “The structured nature of university life gave me a deep appreciation for routine, and I guess it also influences my expectations of people.” Through her parents' careers, discussions at home often revolved around the importance of knowledge, integrity, and community service. These discussions have enduringly influenced her belief in education as a transformative tool.

Childhood Memories and Parenting Approach

Bamidele reminisced about her early memories, which include her first day of school and the sheer wonder of new experiences that accompanied it. “There were friends I made in school back then that, thankfully, are still my friends today,” she recalled, emphasizing the importance of social connections formed during childhood. Unlike today, her playtime was largely spent outdoors within the confines of a strict 6:30 PM curfew. A significant highlight of her childhood was the establishment of the Ibadan Zoo in the early 70s, which left her in awe of the exotic animals she encountered. Her time spent in nature became a cherished part of her formative years, influencing her approach to parenting her own children.

Her Daily Routine

As the wife of a governor, Bamidele has a dynamic and often unpredictable daily routine. She typically begins her mornings with prayer and meditation, followed by an hour on the treadmill or a bike ride, reflecting her commitment to maintaining a sporty lifestyle. Breakfast is usually light, often just a cup of tea, and her mornings often involve light reading until she meets with her team at around 10 AM or 11 AM to review her itinerary for the day. Given her position, she engages in various responsibilities tied to the office of the First Lady, including attending to letters, memos, and feedback related to ongoing initiatives.

Business Ventures and Entrepreneurial Spirit

Bamidele shared her motivations for venturing into business, emphasizing that for many women, the drive often stems from a desire to create something enduring. “Sometimes it is just an urge, or a passion to do something more than just getting and staying on the job,” she explained. While she has faced challenges as a female entrepreneur in a predominantly male domain, she noted that the rewards have outweighed the hardships over her nearly 30 years in business.

Advice to Young Women

As a successful businesswoman and philanthropist, Bamidele offered valuable advice to young women aspiring to make their mark in various industries. “Identify what success means to you; it is different for everyone,” she advised. She urged them to prepare for opportunities, learn continuously, and build supportive networks. Importantly, she emphasized maintaining faith in God, stating, “With Him, all things are possible.”

Commitment to Social Causes

Bamidele’s passion for social welfare, education, and poverty reduction is deeply rooted in her belief that a society is only as strong as its most vulnerable members. “The title of the First Lady of Ogun State is not a position I will hold forever,” she remarked, reflecting on the importance of making a tangible difference in the lives of those unable to help themselves. Her initiatives focus on providing support to widows, orphans, and individuals with disabilities, emphasizing the critical role of education and economic empowerment in transforming lives.

Notable Initiatives and Success Stories

Among her notable initiatives are the Ajose Foundation and the School for Special Needs in Abeokuta, where she has seen significant improvements in the learning environment. By renovating the school and equipping teachers with specialized skills, the initiative has positively impacted both students and educators. Bamidele expressed pride in witnessing measurable changes in the lives of those supported, reinforcing her belief in the power of community investment.

Public Life and Personal Integrity

Despite the challenges that come with being a public figure, Bamidele maintains her personal values and integrity by staying grounded and focused on her purpose. She credits her family and close friends for providing a robust support system, helping her remain accountable to her principles amidst the scrutiny of public life.

Challenges to Women’s Empowerment

Bamidele is acutely aware of the barriers to women’s empowerment in Nigeria, which she identifies as rooted in cultural norms, economic inequality, and gender discrimination. She advocates for gender-sensitive policies and increased representation in leadership roles to address these challenges. She believes that men can serve as allies in the fight for gender equality by using their platforms to advocate for women's rights.

Fashion Style and Personal Interests

Her fashion sense, often described as elegant and understated, reflects her preference for simplicity. While she has worn outfits by renowned designers, she frequently opts for clothing made by talented local tailors from Ogun and Lagos. Bamidele also enjoys unwinding by watching Nollywood films and dedicates time to exercise and reading as her favorite hobbies.

Impactful Reads

Bamidele shared that books like Yuval Noah Harari's 'Sapiens' and works by Joyce Meyer have significantly influenced her perspective on life. She also values historical biographies, appreciating the insights they provide into leadership and decision-making.

Legacy and Personal Health

When reflecting on her legacy, Bamidele hopes to be remembered for positively impacting the lives of those she encountered rather than for physical monuments. In prioritizing her mental and physical health, she emphasizes the importance of quiet reflection and maintaining a peaceful mindset amidst life’s challenges.