By Mike Cerutti
“Greatness is not by chance. It is by God’s grace, hard work, and refusing to give up.”*
She Apostle Mrs. Folorunsho Alakija celebrated her 75th birthday with pomp and pageantry. The event brought together leaders, dignitaries, men and women of God, and admirers from across the world who came to honor a life that has touched millions.
Born with little, her story began in humility. She started her career as a secretary, learning discipline, diligence, and the value of service in those early days. It was in that quiet place that the foundation of greatness was laid.
From the typewriter to the boardroom, Mrs. Alakija transitioned into fashion. As a fashion designer, she built a brand that dressed women of class and elegance. Her creativity and eye for excellence made her a household name in the industry.
But God had a bigger plan. Through resilience and divine direction, she moved into oil and gas — a sector known to be tough, especially for women. Today she stands as a billionaire oil and gas giant, one of the most successful businesswomen on the continent.
Her journey was not without storms. There were rejections, delays, legal battles, and seasons of waiting. Yet she never allowed challenges to define her. Instead, she turned every setback into a setup for a greater comeback.
At the center of it all is her faith. Apostle Alakija is not just a businesswoman. She is a woman of God, a teacher of the Word, and a voice to the nations. Her ministry has brought hope to the broken and direction to the lost.
Through the Rose of Sharon Foundation, she has lifted widows and orphans, funded education, and given scholarships to thousands. Her philanthropy shows that true wealth is measured by the lives you bless.
Young ones can learn so much from her life. First, that humble beginnings do not determine your ending. She started as a secretary and rose to sit at global tables because she was faithful in little.
Second, that resilience pays. She did not quit when doors were shut. She prayed, worked, and waited on God’s timing. Her story proves that patience and persistence are powerful.
Third, that faith in God is non-negotiable. In every interview and sermon, she gives God the glory. She teaches that success without God is empty, but success with God is sustainable.
She also teaches excellence. Whether in fashion, oil, or ministry, she gives her best. That spirit of excellence is why doors keep opening for her at 75.
At 75, she is not slowing down. She is still preaching, still building, still mentoring. Her energy is a testimony that age is not a barrier when your strength is in the Lord.
The woman of God Alakija at 75 reminds us that resilience plus faith equals destiny fulfilled. Her life is a sermon, her story is a manual, and her impact is a legacy.
As we celebrate her, may we all learn to trust God, work hard, and stay faithful. Like her, may our lives also become stories of resilience and faith that inspire generations to come.
