“A TRIBUTE AND ODE TO JIBIKE, MY JEWEL
The call to glory of my beloved wife, Christie Ajibike Akinsanya, on 1st November 2025—fittingly, All Saints’ Day—was painful, heartbreaking, and truly devastating. To accept that my life partner of over half a century had completed her earthly journey was almost too much to bear. Yet, in the midst of the grief, I found strength in the abiding love and mercy of God, and in the assurance that my dear wife has joined the saints in eternal rest, safely cradled in the bosom of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Jibike was more than a devoted wife; she was my steadfast companion, confidant, and greatest supporter. She willingly sacrificed her time and professional pursuits to stand by me throughout all my diplomatic postings—not as a passive observer, but as an active contributor whose God-given “brain and brush” enriched every space we occupied. Her eclectic and timeless artworks adorned our homes and gave life to numerous cultural exhibitions both at home and abroad. Through her creativity, she added depth, colour, and dignity to my efforts in promoting bilateral and multilateral relations between Nigeria and my countries of accreditation and International Organizations I worked with in my diplomatic career.
It is no wonder that a revered Nigerian and late Maternal Uncle, Otunba Subomi Balogun (Rip) fondly described her as “The Picasso of Ijebu-Land.”
Such was her talent and impactful life she lived with grace.
The theme of her Art Exhibit at the Nike Art Gallery in 2014 which she personally themed “I Am Alive” clearly epitomizes her legacy as reflected in her works of Arts and Culture as a first Generation Artist and product of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria where she graduated with distinction in 1973. This is her Legacy, My Wife is Alive
Rest peacefully, Jibs, my love, my inestimable jewel.
Sleep well, dearest, till we meet again. ❤️”
Otunba (Amb.) Segun Akinsanya
“You ,my beautiful, resilient, talented mother were unique. Fearfully and wonderfully made. A woman with many layers, mama bear. It’s the small things that made you super happy. Flowers, gateau’s, chocolate snickers, all things glitter, love, Art, gifts, care, kindness, fashion and most importantly your children. You went above and beyond for us, for that we are so very grateful. You carried our burden. Forever indebted to you. I have learnt so much from you however hard it was to hear at times. My greatest skills stem from you. A generational blessing. You are embedded in my memory daily. A 3 time Cancer survivor I didn’t think you would go, but here we are. Gone. I will put those “big girl “ pants on and grow up more. Every time I create, cook I will in my heart dedicate these processes to YOU, cause you have been my inspiration, foundation, my life, my love, my ear, my fighter, my finances, my career, my wisdom, my comforter, my truth teller, my mother. Love you Mum. Until we meet at the feet of Jesus. A very heavy tearful farewell.
Love you forever ❤️”
Buki Akinsanya
“Dear Mummy- thank you. For everything. Everything l am, and hope to be, l saw in You. You are my greatest inspiration and you will forever live in my heart.
I am lost for words eloquent enough to describe you and my love for you. So l found this poem to help me.
Daughter’s Promise
Every time I smile,
Every time I sigh,
I think of your face,
And a tear escapes my eye.
You were my world,
My inspiration and my heart,
But when you left me,
I thought I would fall apart.
You were my best friend,
My one true confidant,
And that’s not all you were.
You were also my mom.
I didn’t want to live without you,
But you would have wanted me to,
And if there’s anyone I want to make happy,
That anyone is you.
I would have given anything to have you back,
But I know now that it was meant to be,
For you are still watching from up there,
And I know you’re watching me.
I’ll make you proud, Mom.
I’m going to fulfill your wish.
You’re going to see me and smile.
That’s a daughter’s promise.
Allie B. Quaglieri. “A Daughter’s Promise.”
Sleep well, Mummy…And again, thank you…for Everything.
Love”
Kemi Akinsanya
“I shared a bond with my mother that felt unshakable — she was my guide, my comfort, and the person who always knew how to calm my heart. She wasn’t loud about her sacrifices, but I felt them in everything she did. She gave her time, her energy, and her love without ever asking for anything in return. She had a way of creating a sense of security, even during the hardest times.
Losing her has left a pain that no words can truly express. It feels like the world is a little quieter without her. But the love she poured into me doesn’t disappear. It stays. It stays alive in every memory and every lesson. Most parts of who I’ve become is because of her.
I’ll continually be proud to be her son. And I’ll bring her with me — in the way I love, the way I try to be strong, and the way I care for the people around me.
Rest in peace, Mom. I miss you more than I can ever explain.”
Tunde Akinsanya
“You were the best Mum anyone could have ever asked for. I miss you everyday but know you are in a better place now.
Till we meet again Mum ❤️”
Gbemi Akinsanya
Extented Family
“Farewell to my “Sisie Jibs”.
I called her Sisie Jibs. She started out as my sister-in-law and eventually became my sister. We disagreed about the roles of a wife, a mother, and the position of women in Nigerian society, but once we agreed to disagree, we became close friends: a friendship which later became an ‘egbon/aburo’ relationship. She was very close to her older brother, whom she called ‘Adeko’, a name I then adopted, and she often told me stories of how he cared for her when she was studying at ABU, Zaria, and he was a military officer based in Kaduna.
She was a mother hen not only to her children, whom she constantly fussed over and worried about, but also to her nieces and nephews in the Adekoya family, always asking after everyone’s well-being. The bond she shared with them spoke volumes about her capacity for affection and her motherly role towards all.
On a personal level, her artistic gifts were a defining part of who she was. Painting was not merely a pastime for her; it was a language through which she expressed beauty, emotion, and imagination. She often wondered in bewilderment why I had no artistic ability whatsoever.
Her later years were marked by serious health challenges, and the constraints of being housebound weighed heavily on her. Nevertheless, she faced her difficulties with grace, never losing her sense of humour or her gratitude for the people who surrounded her with love. Although she will be greatly missed, I am grateful that she is freed from physical frailty and now rests with the Almighty. Rest well, Sisie Jibs!”
Mrs ‘Funke Adekoya SAN [“Iyawo Adeko”]
“Life is a journey unto death, and death is a journey unto life. I thank God for the life my darling auntie, Yeye Otunba Christian A. Ajibike (JP), lived. She was my adorable auntie, friend, and senior sister. I usually called her Sisi Jibike or Auntie Jilike ooo since I was young and up till she passed on.
She was one of the strongest and most resilient women I have ever had the privilege of knowing. She ran the race and finished gallantly. During her lifetime, she had a way of making everyone feel special by calling them unique names. I always looked forward to welcoming her, her husband Amb. Olusegun Akinsanya, and the children when they were posted from abroad back to Nigeria . We (with my humble self tagging along) would attend several social outings in order to catch up with current owanbes and friends.
Sisi Jibike, I really miss you deeply, but I take solace in the Almighty God that you have gone to rest peacefully in His bosom. May God console and grant all you left behind the fortitude to bear the loss, till we meet to part no more.
Goodnight, Auntie Jilike ooo!!!”
Olufunke Olutoyin Osinubi
“TRIBUTE TO MY AUNTIE.
A beautiful strong woman. A timeless jewel of lnestimate value. A rare gem – that was my Auntie.
There is no other word I can use to describe my Auntie. She was more than an Auntie to me. She was everything I have ever wanted in an Auntie, and a friend. Family and friends knew her for her encouragement and kindness to others.
Yes, I submit to the wil of Almighty God and I pray that God in His infinite mercies will never leave us alone.
I know that you are in a better place, your time here was impactful and you have finished your race. As you always pray that “a ko ni kanju lo ba awon obi” “we pray against every untimely death among us in Jesus Mighty Name. We will all reach ripe old age in Jesus Name. Amen.
Aunty mi, Christiana Omo Adekoya, O d’igba!
Aunty mi, Ajibike Adieu!!
Yeye Olumodan Akinsanya maa sun l’aya Olugbala.
Mum Bukky, a o pade lese Jesu!!!”
Mrs Adebo Olajumoke Oshodi
“Sisi Jibike was a great person with a good soul. She was very accommodating and pleasant to be with.
She exuded great charm and was quite charismatic. Everyone who encountered her naturally liked her.
I will miss our jokes and banter.
Rest in peace, my dear Auntie.”
Dr Seun Akeredolu
“Tribute to Yeye Otunba Ajibike Akinsanya
Words cannot describe your VERY warm show of love anytime we are around you or speaking to you over the phone!
You have pet names for my children – ‘Councilor’ , ‘Oluwole egbon mi’ & ‘My beautiful SAN’ reaffirms the fact of your warmness and love extended to us.
You have been through a lot and God in His mercy kept you thus far showing up when he deemed it fit to call you home at this time.
God’s consolation and comfort is my prayers for all your loved ones especially Otunba and my ‘Aburos’!
Good Night my loving Auntie!”
Funto, Olatunji, Oluwole and ‘Bolaji.
“Oh!!!! My dearest Auntie!!!You have tried your best in this sinful world of ours as a wife!!! as a wonderful Mother!!! Loving Auntie and a great grandma London!!! I’m going to miss you so dearly!!! Thank God for what you were able to do in this journey!!!! God almighty I give you glory and adoration for the care throughout her lifetime!!! Rest on !!! Auntie mi Ajibike!!! Good night!!!!
Your Tirinde”
Kehinde Odufejo
“A Tribute to Our Beloved Aunt – Yeye Otunba Ajibike Akinsanya
It is with heavy hearts that we bid farewell to our dear aunt, whose warmth and love touched us in ways that words cannot fully capture. As we mourn her passing, we celebrate a life that was a beautiful tapestry of generosity, creativity, and connection.
Auntie, you were more than just a relative – you were a beacon of hospitality, a true homemaker in every sense. No matter where life took you, whether in Lagos, London, or Addis Ababa, your homes were always filled with the laughter of family, the aroma of delicious food, and the joy of togetherness. You had this incredible gift of making everyone feel like they belonged, like they were home. Your doors were always open, and your table was always set. We cherish those countless gatherings, big and small, where stories flowed as freely as the food.
Your artistic talent was a thing of wonder – a unique flair that left us all in awe. Whether it was painting, decorating, or simply arranging a bouquet of flowers, you turned the ordinary into something special. We envied your creativity, but more than that, we admired how it brought joy to those around you.
But beyond your many talents, what we will miss most is your spirit – your spark, your curiosity, and your gift for conversation. You had this rare knack for engaging everyone, young and old, in a way that made each person feel seen and heard. The banters, the wisdom, the laughter… those talks were a gift we’ll treasure forever.
As you rest now, we take comfort in the memories we made with you, in the love you shared so generously, and in the example, you set of living life with grace and kindness. You may be gone, but your legacy of warmth, art, and love stays with us. Rest in peace, dear Auntie.
We’ll miss you dearly.”
Toyin & Solape Adesina
“Tribute to Grandma London: I’ll always remember her warmth from when I was young and how much she loved me and my cousins. I’m so grateful I got to see her one last time before she departed. She was a radiant soul.
I’ll miss her dearly”
Adeoluwa Agiri
‘Goodnight…. to our beautiful, gorgeous, spirited, talented and creative,
“Little Grandma’ .”
James, Christine , Folu and Mosun ONI
“Christie Jibike and I were in the same graduating year in Zaria.
She had great poise and the warmest of heart.
May the soul of this incredibly amazing and gorgeous lady enjoy eternal peaceful repose. And may Segun, her beloved husband and their beautiful children find the strength to carry on.
Amen.”
Ambassador Enny Onobu
“My wife and I learned of the passing of HE Mrs. Ajibike Akinsanya, fondly called Auntie Jibike, with great shock. My wife and Auntie met at King’s College, Lagos, in the early eighties. When Auntie Jibike discovered that my wife’s husband was a Foreign Service Officer, they formed a connection and maintained their relationship until Auntie’s death.
Auntie Jibike was an extraordinary person whose presence enriched the lives of everyone around her. During our last visit to the family, her vibrant spirit shone through as she eagerly inquired about our children and offered heartfelt prayers for their success. Even though she is no longer with us, the brightness of her spirit continues to illuminate our hearts. Her resilience and grace throughout her battle with the sickness inspired all who were privileged to know her. She approached every day with remarkable courage, kindness, and a steadfast love for her family and friends. Auntie Jibike’s infectious laughter, genuine warmth, and boundless generosity will remain deeply missed. She leaves behind a legacy built on compassion, strength, and unwavering love.
May her soul find perfect peace, and may the memory of her life bring comfort and encouragement to everyone who held her dear.
We extend our condolences to Amb. Segun Akinsanya and the children during this difficult time and hope they find the strength and resilience to cope with this significant loss.
Amb. Adesola & Alhaja Taobat Abolurin”
With a heavy, but grateful heart, and in total submission to the will of God, I thank the Lord for your beautiful life, the joy of having you as a friend, and a sister in Christ. Yeye Otunba Ajibike Akinsanya. The news of your demise came as a rude shock as I visited you in the hospital and looked forward to seeing you at home after your discharge. Alas, it was never to be. The light in our world is undeniably dimmer today, yet the memory of my beloved friend Jibike burns brighter than ever. You taught us the power of presence, living by the motto you proudly adopted following your victories after your health challenges ,” I am alive.” That phrase was your brand, your creed, and the ultimate truth of your being. You faced difficult medical challenges in life, not once but twice, moving through those battles not as a victim but as a seasoned warrior. Your spirit was unbent, your will unbreakable, and you used your survival to sharpen your focus on creating beautiful things. You once told me how you encouraged your other survivors to color their hair orange as it began to grow again after the side effects of the treatment. You had of course already colored yours. That is Jibike for you, a fighting spirit not to be broken. One couldn’t imagine what the clinic looked like with all of you with orange hair.
You were a gifted and talented artist. Your students in King’s College Lagos where you taught Fine Arts and later became Head of the Department of Fine Arts in your younger years would would always cherish your memory. The act of creation became your greatest triumph, a defiant declaration that the force of life within you could not be contained. You channeled it into something permanent and meaningful. Your canvases are mostly rooted in African traditions and cultures. Your art was a celebration of ancestral strength, rich color, and storytelling. Your paintings adorned your homes in the different countries you served with your beloved husband Ambassador Segun Akinsanya, and of course to our admiration in your home in Lekki, .
Your fighting spirit was tested a third time in a way that felt like a cruel irony when you had essential tremors, which stole the steady hand of the artist. The inability to hold a brush after fighting so hard for life would have broken many, but not my dear friend. You refused to let go of your motto,” I am alive”. This final act of resilience became a powerful lesson in a courageous acceptance. You showed us that strength isn’t just about winning a battle, it’s about showing up day after day and insisting on living fully. Your presence, your humor, your laughter, your wisdom,your resilience, and your unwavering, defiant appreciation for the gift of life became your final, most profound creation.
My darling Jibike, we will remember you for the brilliant, enduring life you chose to share with the world through your paintings, and more for the courage to fight for life as long as there is breath.
You have fought a good fight, you have finished your course, you have kept the faith.. Though you are gone from our sight, but you are forever in our hearts. Continue to rest in the bosom of your maker, Sun re o Jibike, until we meet to part no more.
Dr. Kehinde Ashiru
MORE TRIBUTES:
Tribute from Chief Ayodele Bankole
Tribute from the Council of Otunbas of Ijebuland
Tribute from Wellcare Home Medicals Limited
Tribute from Adeola Obutola College Old Students Association
Tribute from The Pan Niger Delta Forum
Tribute from The Yoruba Tennis Club
Tribute for The Alumni Association of The National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies
Tribute for The Alumni Association of The National Institute