Esama of Benin Kingdom, Chief Gabriel Igbinedion, Celebrates 91st Birthday with Papal Blessings, Traditional and Diplomatic Dignitaries in Attendance

Chief Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion, the Esama of Benin Kingdom and one of Nigeria’s most celebrated business moguls, marked his 91st birthday with a day of thanksgiving, tributes, and global recognition. The billionaire businessman and philanthropist was honored in Benin City with a thanksgiving service and a dinner reception attended by political leaders, traditional rulers, diplomats, and clergy.

In a historic acknowledgment, Pope Leo the Fourteenth paid tribute to Chief Igbinedion’s extraordinary life and impact. In a message conveyed by Archbishop Michael F. Crotty, Apostolic Nuncio to Nigeria and Ambassador of the Holy See, the Pope gave thanks to Almighty God for the gift of long life to the Esama, describing his works of charity, education, and community development as “unequalled.” The Pope praised his legacy in philanthropy and interfaith harmony, praying that he be continually sustained with good health, peace of mind, and the joy of God’s abiding presence.

The day began with an early morning Thanksgiving service officiated by Rev. Felix Omobude, former President of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria. Attendees included Edo State Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa, representing Governor Monday Okpebholo; PDP governorship candidate Asue Ighodalo; APC stalwart and former Secretary to the State Government Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu; and numerous political leaders.

Representatives from the diplomatic and traditional communities included the Ooni of Ife, who was represented by one of his chiefs, traditional rulers from Osun State and Ghana, the former South African Ambassador to Nigeria, and the Cuban Ambassador, highlighting the international scope of the Esama’s influence.

Chief Igbinedion, widely regarded as a pioneer in Nigerian business, built an empire spanning education, media, aviation, real estate, and hospitality. He is the founder of Igbinedion University, Nigeria’s first licensed private university, and has made enduring contributions to healthcare, infrastructure, and community development across the country.

Later in the evening, the celebrations continued with a grand dinner reception attended by family, friends, and dignitaries. The event, filled with tributes, music, and reflection, honored the Esama not only as a patriarch of one of Nigeria’s most influential families but also as a bridge between tradition, politics, and global diplomacy.

Surrounded by his wife, Lady Cherry Igbinedion, his first son and former Edo State Governor, Chief Lucky Igbinedion, and former Edo First Lady Ehi Igbinedion, the Esama of Benin’s 91st birthday was celebrated as both a milestone of longevity and a testament to a lifetime of enterprise, philanthropy, and service to humanity.

More photos from the church service below: