stories & WISHES
Temi is a selfless, loving, and the kindest, most compassionate soul I know. Her radiant smile lights up any room, and her kind heart inspires everyone she meets. If you know Temi well, she loves to solve puzzles on her phone as well as in real life. Which is why I’m sometimes scared when people come to her with a problem because I know she won’t stop until she has solved it. But it’s something that impresses me about her.
And OMG, she can plan! Don’t tell Temi you are considering going on vacation next year 😊. She will start the planning 12 months in advance. But I am one lucky man to have a wife who not only lights up my life, but also expertly orchestrates all the adventures within it. She's the mastermind behind our memorable vacations, and the curator of our cozy date nights. Although I used to be overwhelmed by her love for organization, her drive, and meticulous attention to detail, I’ve come to appreciate how blessed I am with her by my side.
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If you are wondering what her biggest flaw is, she loves watching TV and goes for romantic and fun shows. I’ve been trying to figure out how to get her to stop watching K-dramas. But that might be a lost cause. Her TV and music genres tell you that Temi is wired to be happy. You need to see her Netflix profile. It’s so bright, which is why she complains about how mine needs more light. I admire the fact that she’s a fun-loving person who always likes to see the positives in any situation.
I remember when we met about 20 years ago. The first thing I noticed (well apart from her beautiful complexion) was that she didn’t like prolonged fights or disagreements. But don’t mess with her o, just a warning for those that think you can walk all over her. Seriously though, she has a sweet personality and always seeks to maintain positive energy and vibes around her. It’s been fun watching her grow and even more fulfilling growing with her through the years. I feel privileged having her as my best friend, wife and mom to our kids. As much as I know you cannot be loved by all, if you don’t like Temi, you probably need to check yourself because she bears no grudges nor keeps malice. She has no bad bones in her.
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Did I mention that she is super intelligent. One of my proudest moments was watching her pick up her award as the best student in her graduate class where she checked out with a perfect 4.0 CGPA. I love hearing her speak to her colleagues on cybersecurity topics or professional development with such eloquence and emotional intelligence when needed. I could talk about her numerous achievements both personally and in her career, but this is about celebrating the uniqueness that she embodies. The black beauty, happiness personified, God fearing, with an optimist view on issues.
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If anyone was wondering about the best decision I ever made; it was two-fold. The first was 20 years ago and the second was 14 years ago. And I’ll do it all over again. She deserves all the happiness that she’s had and as she takes this massive next step into 40, I know her future is even much brighter than her wonderful previous 39.9.
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Temitope, today, we celebrate not just your age, but the remarkable woman you are. Cheers to you, my forever love.
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Seun Olatoye-Ojo
Wow! 40! Dudu! Seems like yesterday when you were still always quibbling with Tolu. Two sisters relentlessly at each other. If I had known that age and time would do an excellent job of effectively separating and making you very fond of each other, I probably would have saved myself some very precious energy trying to do the same.
You were always bold, daring and financially industrious. I just couldn't understand your penchant for earrings, I confiscated a lot of them in mummies old cooker in Dipo Olubi. I wonder what happened to them? I wonder if you can still roll those eyeballs in…very scary stuff... I also cannot forget "now I can skip....gbosa", or the scar on my hand trying to show you how to do " splits" while you were holding a "tiger" razor blade in your hand, at Adetola. It’s amazing how you have come from that beautiful young lady that was always 'burning' instead of cooking food, tucking wrappers of sweets and biscuits under the bed, (I wonder if its like that with many at that age) to a great 'young' lady that is holding up a fortress. I know the years ahead will be greater and more illustrious. Cheers to 40!
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Temi's brother - Dami Tanimowo, PhD
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My Sister is a GEM. The first person I knew to wear the nickname Ebony well. She is caring, much more with action than words. She's someone with whom you share a problem with and is already figuring out a solution or a way to be of help. She's a go-getter who strives to help others around her succeed.
She's been my day one supporter who I can always count on to have my back (although she gave me my first nickname when we were kids that I will not mention- reading this now I'm sure she remembers). She is kind, she is poised, she is intelligent, she is diligent, an exemplary role model and overall the best Sister anyone could pray for. I'm grateful for and love her always.
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Temi's younger sister - Tolu Adeniyi (nee Tanimowo)
Òré as we fondly call each other.
I met Tope in Ife, she was my classmate. Even though we started out in a group of 4, she actually became my closest person in the group. And we practically did life together in Obafemi Awolowo University. We would usually spend the lecture hours together daily and part ways afterwards as each person had their individual schedules for reading, fellowship and other activities.
Tope is a beauty with brains, super intelligent human. She is a black beauty so I called her Éclairs rather than Dudu😂.
She is a friend turned sister as our relationship has continued to blossom over the years inspite of the distance. I was her chief bridesmaid and early God-mother to Morayo (not been actively on duty sha). By extension, Seun became my brother from way back even before they got married.
Happy 40th birthday babe! I am super excited to celebrate you on this milestone age and I pray that you are fortified with grace in this new season. I am proud of all your past achievements yet I am looking forward to seeing you launch further with all the gifts the Father has bestowed on you.
I love how we can pick up from wherever when we speak no matter how far apart. I am grateful to have you in my corner all these years.
I love you and cheering you on!! Now, let’s celebrate!!!
dayo balogun (nee arewa)
Temitope has been my cherished friend for over 12 years, and she has been a constant source of joy and inspiration. Our journey together began during our service year in Enugu when we were both posted to serve in the same company. Working together taught me about her remarkable character and love for God. Temitope has always been an epitome of beauty, radiating grace and elegance in every way. Her cheerful demeanor and infectious laughter made every moment spent together delightful.
Beyond her stunning exterior, Temitope has a very friendly and outgoing personality and a keen sense of intellect and reason. Her joy is infectious, and her presence is a beacon of positivity. Her deep faith in God guides her actions and decisions, making her a true embodiment of grace and goodness. I am profoundly grateful for her friendship and our countless memories over the years.
Happy 40th Birthday, my dearest friend, and welcome to the Fourth floor. May God’s grace shine upon you as you celebrate this remarkable milestone, guiding you with wisdom and love in every step. May He crown you with goodness and favor and continually establish the works of your hands. I wish you many more cherished memories, blessings, and fulfilling years ahead.
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JOY IJENEBE (NEE EKPENYONG)​
Happy birthday darling Tope! This is a great feat, and I am super excited for you. 40 years on earth is no jokes. I wish you many happy returns in all greatness of life in Jesus name. Amen.
Tope is such a sweet soul with a beautiful aura. I met her in 2007/2008 in my final year in OAU. She was my roommate then. Tope loved me and showed it in every way. Of course, I loved and still love her. She’s such a caring, kind-hearted woman. She’s highly intelligent and smart. I am not surprised she’s doing exploit in her career, which is just the beginning because her future is bright and God will take her places.
I remember how we used to gist then in our room with her unique laughter and rolling of eyes 😃😃. How during the holidays, she would come visit me in my house in Ibadan, how she used to advise and just wanted the best for me since then. I can go on and on. Tope has one of the purest of hearts I have ever met. I pray as she celebrates her birthday, celebrations will not cease in her home, and God will increase her in all ways.
Have a blessed new year sweet! Happy birthday once again. I love you girl.
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MOTUNRAYO AKINPELU (nee moibi)
Temi!
My friend, sister, mentor, and guardian angel. To know you is to love you. You’re my quirky extroverted introvert, my frugal yet extravagant friend. You never do anything halfway; you always give 100%. I’m so grateful that our paths first crossed in the 5th-grade hallways at Amy Campbell. You’re brutally honest, loyal, and steadfast.
Happy birthday to you, always. I pray that God continues to bless and protect you. May your smile never fade, and may laughter always fill your days. I love you, Sis, now and forever!
Happiest birthday yet to my amazing Madam at the Top!
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Love,
chisom orizu
I have known Temitope for almost 20 years, ever since we met in college through my brother, Seun. From the beginning, she has always been kindhearted, with a calm and cheerful presence that is hard to miss, with a smile on her face and a laugh ready. She is a confident person, though she tends to be a bit shy when speaking Yoruba.
Over the years, Temitope has become a cherished part of our family, fitting in so naturally. It is no surprise, as she is so intentional about building strong relationships. She never forgets a birthday or anniversary, always thinking of others. She often reaches out more than we do and still apologizes for not doing so sooner.
I remember when our son was born, Temitope sent us so many thoughtful gifts, including things we didn’t even realize we would need as first-time parents. But as time went on, we found ourselves using every single thing she sent.
Temitope, as you celebrate this milestone birthday, may God, who has brought you this far, take you even further and higher than you could ever imagine in Jesus name. I am proud to be your brother-in-law and friend, and truly grateful to know you. Wishing you all the best in the future.
bunmi olatoye-ojo