A Life of Love, Faith, and Legacy: Celebrating Mr. Richard Adelowo Ayeni and Mrs. Grace Itunu Ayeni
Written by News Desk on August 31, 2025
Mr. Richard Adelowo Ayeni was born on May 6, 1948, to Chief Ruben Ayeni, the Elegbero of Obalu of Efon Alaye Ekiti, and Mrs. Martha Oni. Growing up in Efon with his siblings, Richard attended St. John’s Anglican School Idagba from 1956 to 1961.
He later learned photography in Akure and worked as a laborer at the Orin Ekiti Farm Settlement before moving to Ibadan in 1970. Richard began his photography work in 1973 at Dogo, Apata, popularly known as New Model Photos, which was one of the first photography studios in Apata.
He joined AGC, Dogo Apata, now in NNPC Apata,where he met influential people who positively impacted his life. Richard also served as a choir master at AGC, Apata, further demonstrating his commitment to his faith.
It was at AGC, Apata, that Richard met his future wife, Sister Grace Itunu Oyenekan, who was born on August 13, 1955, in Apena Ake Village, Abeokuta, Ogun State. Grace is the cherished daughter of Pa, Jacob Oyenekan and Mrs. Victoria Mosunmola Ayinke.
At age 11, Grace relocated to Ibadan to live with her sister, Mrs. Felicia Amoke Adeniran, where she completed her primary education at CAC Primary School, Olugbode, Odo Ona.
As a visionary and ambitious woman, Grace equipped with many skills in crocheting, fashion designing, and laundry services, which she pursued with passion and excellence.
However,Richard and Grace’s paths crossed in 1977, and they got married on April 28, 1979, at AGC Mokola, Ibadan.
Together, they built a godly and loving home, blessed with wonderful children and grandchildren.
While Richard’s photography career flourished, Grace on the other hand ran a successful fufu business at Dogo, Apata.Being renowned for her soft and succulent Fufu, earned her the nickname “Iya Kemi Oni Fufu”, a name which was famous among all ages.
Still with her enterprising drive, she subsequently transitioned to laundry services, and together with her husband, raised godly and well-educated children.
Grace’s commitment to her faith is evident in her active role in the church. She served as an usher, Sunday school teacher, and dedicated member of the Assemblies of God Church. Her love and dedication to her family, community, and faith have been a source of inspiration to many.
As people celebrate Mrs. Grace Itunu Ayeni’s 70th birthday, we honor a life of impact, resilience, and unshakable faith. Their legacy is a testament to the power of hard work, faith, dedication, and the positive influences of those around them. Happy 70th birthday, Mummy! May their love, faith, and legacy continue to inspire generations to come.
