Dr. Akeem Bello, a lecturer in the Department of Political Science, Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science, and Technology, Ikere-Ekiti,today celebrated the remarkable life and legacy of Erelu Bisi Adeleye-Fayemi on the occasion of her 62nd birthday.
Dr. Bello in a press statement highlighted Erelu Fayemi’s exceptional contributions to gender advocacy, her role as a social and political activist, and her significant influence as a leader in Ekiti State and beyond.
“Erelu Bisi Adeleye-Fayemi, born on June 11, 1963, in Liverpool, England, has long been recognised for her relentless commitment to empowering women and children and advancing the cause of gender equality. Her academic journey, which began at the University of Ife, now Obafemi Awolowo University, where she studied History, laid the foundation for a career dedicated to social change. Erelu furthered her academic pursuits with a Master’s in Gender and Society from Middlesex University in the United Kingdom, positioning her as a global advocate for women’s rights.
“As a pioneering figure in women’s advocacy, Erelu Fayemi co-founded the African Women’s Development Fund (AWDF), the first pan-African grant-making foundation focused on supporting women’s rights organisations across the continent. Her leadership at the AWDF and her role as a Senior Advisor at UN Women Nigeria were instrumental in shaping policies that championed women’s empowerment and social justice across Africa.
“Serving as First Lady of Ekiti State, Erelu Fayemi’s advocacy for women and children was transformative. She played an integral part in enacting the Gender-Based Violence Prohibition Law and the Equal Opportunities Bill, setting the stage for a more inclusive and equitable society in Ekiti. Erelu’s work extended to launching the Obirin Kete Women Empowerment Programme, which empowered women through advocacy, education, and cooperative initiatives. Through her work, she also founded the Ekiti Development Foundation, focusing on youth mentorship and women’s economic development.
“Erelu’s literary contributions further solidified her legacy. Her books, including Speaking for Myself: Perspectives on Social, Political and Feminist Activism in Africa and Speaking Above a Whisper, provide a glimpse into her journey as an advocate and activist. Her works, Loud Whispers and A Tray of Locust Beans, explore themes of leadership, justice, and social transformation, offering valuable insights into her philosophy of social change. Erelu Bisi Fayemi is a faculty outside the traditional academic community.”
Dr. Akeem Bello also commended Erelu’s extensive recognition for her contributions, which include being named one of the 20 most influential African women by New African Magazine in 2009, as well as receiving the prestigious David Rockefeller Bridging Leadership Award in 2011. Her induction into the Nigerian Women Hall of Fame in 2022 further recognised her lifelong dedication to women’s rights and empowerment.
“Throughout the tenure of her husband, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, as Governor of Ekiti State, Erelu Bisi Fayemi was an unrelenting pillar of support. Her strategic guidance, advocacy, and commitment to women’s issues played a crucial role in shaping his administration’s focus on inclusivity. Her support ensured that gender equality remained a core principle in the governance of Ekiti, and her initiatives, such as the Ekiti Gender-Based Violence Prohibition Law, helped further Dr. Fayemi’s vision of a fairer society. Erelu’s influence also extended beyond her duties as First Lady, with her playing an active role in the international and national engagements of the Fayemi administration.”
Dr. Bello also acknowledged Erelu’s significant support for the emergence of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji as the successor to her husband.
“Erelu’s guidance, strategic counsel, and encouragement were instrumental in ensuring a smooth transition of power, promoting a sense of unity between the Fayemi and Oyebanji camps. Her support for Governor Oyebanji was a testament to her dedication to Ekiti’s continued growth and her unwavering belief in the importance of strong leadership that embraces the values of gender equality and sustainable development.”
As Erelu Bisi Adeleye-Fayemi celebrates her 62nd birthday today, Dr. Akeem Bello concluded his statement by emphasising her profound and lasting impact on Ekiti State, Nigeria, and the African continent.
“Her life’s work has been characterised by a relentless pursuit of justice, gender equality, and empowerment, making her a beacon of hope for countless individuals and communities.
“Dr. Bello joined many others in wishing Erelu Bisi Adeleye-Fayemi a joyful birthday and a continued legacy of leadership and impact”, the statement said.