Distinguished dignitaries from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration joined family, friends, and business associates last Saturday to celebrate the 50th birthday of Qs. Theophilus Ayodele Apere, FNIQS, RQS, in a grand ceremony held in Abuja.
The high-profile event attracted top government officials including Minister of Interior, Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-ojo; Senator representing Kwara South, Arch. Oyelola Ashiru; former Kwara State Governor, HE Abdulfatah Ahmed; lawmaker representing Offa/Oyun/Ifelodun at the House of Representatives, Hon. Ismail Kayode Tijani; Director General of National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brigadier General Olakunle Oluseye Nafiu; and President of the Nigerian Institute of Quantity Surveying, Qs Kene Nzekwe Christopher.
The celebration which demonstrated the wise respect the Qs. Apere commands across various sectors of Nigeria society also drew prominent military brass including Gen Omotomilola Akintade, Major General Olufemi Akinjobi, and Major General S. O. Olabanji, among others.
The event featured the unveiling of Hon. Apere’s autobiography titled “A Life of Divine Direction,” which chronicles his inspiring journey from a pastor’s son who served as the family’s bell boy for morning devotions to becoming a successful quantity surveyor, CEO, and respected national figure.
The book particularly captures Apere’s transformation from a campus fellowship president to a seasoned professional who has maintained the integrity, honesty, and fear of God instilled by his pastor father and deaconess mother.
The autobiography equally reveals how divine direction guided crucial decisions in Qs. Apere life, including his choice of wife, NYSC posting, and career path.
“A Life of Divine Direction” showcases Apere’s commitment to sacrificial living, influenced by growing up in a large family of non-blood related members. The book highlights his humanitarian efforts, including scholarship schemes and his vision for national transformation through strengthening family institutions.
The autobiography does not shy away from challenges, detailing how Apere’s character was refined through various trials, including remaining loyal to an employer who failed to pay his salary for up to a year. It emphasizes his ability to maintain relationships dating back to his primary school years and his vision for transformational leadership.
Delivering his remarks during the celebration, emphasized that Apere represents the quality of people from Kwara South. The lawmaker joined other dignitaries in showering encomiums on the celebrant, praising his professional achievements and character.
In his vote of thanks, the celebrant expressed profound appreciation to all attendees, saying: “I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who joined me to celebrate my 50th birthday. Your presence, prayers, love, and support made it an unforgettable occasion.”
Apere particularly thanked those who traveled from near and far, acknowledging their sacrifices and the joy their presence brought to the celebration. He extended special recognition to the organizing team who ensured the event’s smooth execution.