Mulikat Akande-Adeola at 65: Celebrating a trailblazer in politics and public service

Mulikat Akande-Adeola at 65: Celebrating a trailblazer in politics and public service

Yinka ADETUNJI

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Former House of Representatives Majority Leader, Hon. Mulikat Akande-Adeola, has been celebrated on her 65th birthday for her contributions to public service and politics, as well as her influence in Ogbomoso and beyond.

Akande-Adeola, who represents a notable figure in Nigeria’s political history as the first woman to serve as Majority Leader of the House of Representatives, clocked 66 on Wednesday, November 11, 2026.

In a birthday tribute, Oladayo Ogunlana described her as a woman of distinction whose impact extends beyond her years in public office, noting that she has maintained her relevance in the country’s socio-political space since leaving the National Assembly in 2015.

A life of service and influence

Ogunlana, who reflected on his personal relationship with the former lawmaker, described her as a supportive and principled personality, always willing to assist people who demonstrate sincerity and commitment to their careers.

He noted that her ability to maintain strong relationships and inspire loyalty among her supporters had contributed to her continued relevance in Ogbomoso and Oyo State politics.

According to him, Akande-Adeola remains a source of encouragement to many, combining political experience with a willingness to support the advancement of others.

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Academic and professional background

Born on November 11, 1960, to Ogbomoso parents from Jokodolu Compound in the Saja area, Akande-Adeola grew up in Kaduna, where she attended St. Anne’s Primary School and Queen Amina College.

She proceeded to the College of Arts and Science, Zaria, for her A-level studies before gaining admission into Ahmadu Bello University in 1979 to study Law. She graduated in 1982 with a Bachelor of Laws degree, earning a Second Class Upper Division.

She attended the Nigerian Law School and was called to the Bar in 1983. In 1985, she obtained a Master of Laws degree from the University of Lagos.

Her professional career included working with Continental Merchant Bank Plc in 1988, where she was subsequently deployed to CMB Homes Mortgage Bank Limited as Head of Legal and Administration. She later rose to become the bank’s Company Secretary and Legal Adviser before establishing her law firm, M.L. Akande & Co.

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Historic role in the House of Representatives\

Akande-Adeola ventured into partisan politics and was elected in 2007 into the House of Representatives on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), representing Ogbomoso North, Ogbomoso South and Oriire Federal Constituency.

She secured re-election in 2011 and subsequently emerged as the Majority Leader of the House, becoming the first woman to occupy the position. She also served as a member of the ECOWAS Parliament between 2007 and 2011.

Her emergence as Majority Leader marked a significant milestone in the representation of women in Nigeria’s legislative leadership.

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Birthday wishes

In his tribute, Ogunlana described Akande-Adeola as an institution in Ogbomoso and Oyo State, citing her resilience, political influence and enduring relationships with supporters.

He also praised her composure in the face of political victories and setbacks, expressing the hope that she would continue to enjoy good health, prosperity and happiness.

He wished the former lawmaker “many more years of fruitful living,” describing her affectionately as the “Big Mama”.

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