It was a celebration steeped in grandeur, elegance, and heartfelt tributes on Saturday as prominent Lagos businessman and philanthropist, Chief Dewale Teluwo, marked his 70th birthday amidst an outpouring of love from family, friends, dignitaries, and business associates.
The platinum jubilee celebration, held at the prestigious Divine Event Center, Obanikoro, Lagos, was nothing short of a royal affair. Guests arrived in style, with the venue beautifully adorned in hues of gold and white to reflect the celebrant’s grace, impact, and enduring legacy.
Speaking to Somolu Newspaper correspondent, one of the wives of the Ijebu-born entrepreneur, Mrs. Abimbola Teluwo, a pastor and educationist described her husband as a gentleman, humble, trustworthy, dependable and a workaholic and achiever.
“There’s nothing he touches that doesn’t yield good result. I wish him more successful and long life in good health and sound mind”.
Mrs. Joy Teluwo in her birthday message to her loving husband described him as a kindhearted human being, very loving, caring personality whose generosity has brought peace of mind to his family home and abroad while she prayed and wish him all the best, good health and long life.
One of his bosom friends and brother, Engr. Chief Snr. Apstl. Frederick Faramola Egbaiyelo in his birthday message described Chief Adewale Teluwo as close of many decades with whom his friendship has blossom to family.
“We have known each since 1976 and since then, we have been so close. We share beautiful ideas and attend family functions most times. He’s such a fun and wonderful to be with. Trustworthy and friendly to all and sundry. He’s truly more than a friend I will say”. He claimed.
In the same vein, his Personal Assistant and brother, Alhaji Suraj Ibrahim revealed that Chief Teluwo was a good human being, workaholic, an enigma, God-fearing and dedicated industrialist whose contribution to humanity cannot be underestimated.
“Chief Teluwo is a very honest person, a workaholic, an enigma, God-fearing. He’s an open person that can discuss anything with whoever he chooses to. He has no secret vault. I wish him happy birthday, long life and good health.
In addition to the birthday messages, a Somolu-born and former Regional Accountant of Panalpina West Africa; Hon. Niyi Osibemekun hinted that Chief Teluwo was someone they look-up to while growing up back then in their early day noting that they had wanted to be like him and become another ‘Teluwo”.
He continued, “Talking about Chief Adewale Teluwo, He’s one of the Icon in Somolu, he’s our ‘Egbon’ whom we always look up while growing up. We had wanted to be like him and become another ‘Teluwo. I wish him more success, better health, long life and prosperity”. He concluded.
Mr. Abiodun Babatunde popularly known as ‘Soku’ and Hon. Bamiro-Cker in their messages described the celebrant as a wonderful and accommodating nature has brought nothing but smiles on the faces of those crossed his path noting that Chief Teluwo as an entrepreneur, did not only established businesses but also ensured he built movers and shakers in the society who are now making positive contributions in every field of their endearvours.
Chief Teluwo, who has been a towering figure in the Nigerian business landscape for over four decades, is the Chairman and founder of many companies with interests in real estate, manufacturing, Oil and Gas, Insurance and sports.
But beyond the boardroom, he is widely known for his generous philanthropy and relentless service to humanity – especially in the areas of youth empowerment, education, and health.
The event kicked off with a thanksgiving service officiated by clerics from the Christian faiths, symbolizing Chief Teluwo’s inclusive and humble nature. In his emotional opening remarks, he expressed deep gratitude to God for the gift of life, good health, and the privilege to witness three-score and ten.
“I am not just 70 years old today,” Chief Teluwo said. “I am 70 years blessed. Life has taught me that wealth means nothing if it cannot uplift others. I thank my family, friends, and staff who have stood by me through thick and thin.”
Highlife musicians and of the best DJ’s around serenaded the audience with soulful tunes, while popular renowned compère kept the audience entertained. The atmosphere was laced with glitz as guests wined and dined while sharing fond memories of Chief Teluwo’s influence in their lives.
Adding emotional weight to the evening were tributes from his wives, Chief Mrs. Abimbola Teluwo, Mrs. Joy Teluwo, his children, who spoke glowingly of a man who not only shaped industries but also nurtured a loving and spiritually grounded home.
Chief Dewale Teluwo’s 70th birthday was more than a milestone — it was a testimonial of purpose, perseverance, and people-centered success. His life story, from humble beginnings to becoming a beacon of hope and empowerment, remains an inspiration to generations of Nigerians.
Meanwhile, as the curtains drew on the festivities, one thing became clear – Chief Teluwo is not just 70 years old, he is 70 years young at heart, with a legacy that will echo for many years to come. Among the dignitaries present were top government officials, captains of industry, traditional rulers, clergy, and celebrities.