“The Secret to Longevity and Vitality: Wisdom from a Political Icon”

Chief Ayo Adebanjo reflects on his extraordinary life with deep gratitude, crediting his health and vitality to the grace of God. “I don’t know why I’m still here while my contemporaries are gone,” he says, acknowledging the importance of living with integrity and consistency, especially in public life. Being content, he believes, is a major factor in achieving peace of mind.

Recently, a photo of him surprised some onlookers, who thought he looked no older than 59, raising questions about his secret to staying so energetic. “It’s all God’s grace,” Adebanjo affirms. Despite a healthy lifestyle — including a balanced diet, physical exercise, and an active mind — he firmly believes that divine grace is what truly sustains him. “Even when I was 80, people asked me the same thing, and I told them the same: It’s the grace of God that keeps me going.”

When discussing his daily routine, Adebanjo admits that as he gets older, he doesn’t wake up as early. Instead, he enjoys late nights, catching up on the news after others have gone to bed. However, in his younger days, he was diligent with morning walks and physical exercise, inspiring many, including his children, to maintain a similar lifestyle.

As for his eating habits, Adebanjo claims he’s not particularly picky. “I eat whatever is well-cooked and tasty,” he says, noting that he enjoys a wide variety of food. He attributes his good health not just to his diet, but to God’s mercy.

In terms of relaxation, music plays a role in his unwinding. In his youth, it was Sunny Ade and Ebenezer Obey, but back in the day, he also enjoyed the sounds of Ayinde Bakare and the Sakara groups from Osogbo. His deep connection to political history shaped his worldview, especially his association with the legendary Chief Obafemi Awolowo, with whom he worked closely during the formation of the Action Group.

Adebanjo’s journey in politics began early in life, where he rose to prominence as the founding secretary of the Action Group Youth Association in 1953. He recounts how he worked closely with political stalwarts like Chief Remi Fani-Kayode and became a trusted ally of Chief Awolowo. His work with the Action Group not only shaped his political career but also reinforced his belief in Nigeria’s unity and progress.

Despite years of political battles, Adebanjo is clear about his enduring commitment to Nigeria’s future. Reflecting on his role in the Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN), he says his experience as a political organizer took him across the country, from Maiduguri to Kano, teaching the values of unity and development.

Adebanjo’s journey also saw him face moments of personal risk, such as when he lost a job in the Ministry of Health for his refusal to submit to an expatriate’s authority. But he does not regret his activism, as he firmly believes in the principles of justice, freedom, and good governance.

As for his youthful days, Adebanjo shares with a smile how he was known as the “Spotless Magus” and had his share of admiration from girls during his grammar school years. Yet, his political involvement meant he had to set aside such distractions in favor of serving a greater cause — following in the footsteps of Chief Awolowo, who taught him the importance of focus and discipline.

Now, with his centenary approaching, Adebanjo shows no signs of slowing down. “I won’t stop until I’m in the grave,” he declares, echoing the words of his mentor Chief Awolowo. Despite the challenges facing Nigeria today, including political unrest, he remains resolute in his mission to serve the people and uphold the ideals of justice and unity.

Reflecting on his life, Adebanjo believes that despite the hurdles, Nigeria can still find hope in its people, as long as the right principles guide the nation’s leaders. As he prepares for his next chapter, his unwavering commitment to his country remains unshaken, a beacon of dedication, wisdom, and resilience.