On Monday, Pastor Tunde Bakare, Superintendent Pastor of Citadel Global Community Church (CGCC), marked his 70th birthday with a remarkable gesture, donating N250 million to charity.
The generous sum was a birthday gift from his church members and will be directed to support those in need, reflecting Bakare’s commitment to philanthropy.
The milestone event, held at CGCC headquarters in Oregun, Ikeja, Lagos, was filled with worship, songs, and a public presentation of Bakare’s new autobiography, The Least but Definitely not the Last. During his speech, Bakare expressed gratitude to his congregation for their thoughtfulness, emphasizing the importance of collective responsibility in nation-building.
“Instead of focusing solely on what we can gain from the country, let’s also think about how to make it better,” Bakare urged, adding that as a pastor, he has a duty to care for his congregation. “By directing this N250 million to charity, the seed sown in me today will continue to flourish and honor God’s glory.”
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who was present at the event, praised Bakare as a role model and father figure to many. He acknowledged Bakare’s dedication to national advocacy and his positive influence on society. “Pastor Bakare is not just a man of God; he is a father to us who listen to his messages and counsel. Born on a special day—11/11—he embodies an unshakable nationalism that inspires many,” Sanwo-Olu said, praying for Bakare’s continued health and wisdom.
The celebration attracted prominent guests, including Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume, who represented President Bola Tinubu, as well as Gov. Dapo Abiodun of Ogun, and Lagos State Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat. Other distinguished attendees were former governors, including Otunba Olusegun Osoba, Sen. Gbenga Daniel, and Victor Attah, along with former Central Bank Deputy Governor Tunde Lemo, civil rights activist Dr. Joe Odumakin, and the Alake of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Gbadebo.
