Lagos witnessed a heartwarming celebration on Wednesday as veteran journalist and producer with Channels Television, Bolanle Frazer, honored her mother, Madam Mercy, on the occasion of her 90th birthday, dedicating her newly built mansion, *Mercy River View Apartments*, in her name.
Speaking at the thanksgiving service held in Lagos, Frazer described her mother as a tireless and selfless woman who sacrificed greatly to give her children a quality education.
“My mother worked as a carpenter, bricklayer, wash woman, cook—anything to ensure we were educated and well-fed,” Frazer recalled emotionally. “I learnt business from her, and she spoiled me with love, care, and honesty. As her last born, I remember how she would come to my university every weekend just to wash my clothes. Today, I am happy to name this house after her.”
The celebration, which combined the 90th birthday thanksgiving and the house dedication, drew family, friends, dignitaries, and well-wishers.
Mrs. Ibironke Akanbi, who offered the opening prayer, expressed gratitude to God for Mama’s life, noting that she was present at her 85th birthday and privileged to witness her 90th. She also prayed for peace in Nigeria and long life for Mama and her family.
In a goodwill message, Mama’s granddaughter, Nurse Anu Adenuga, described her grandmother as a disciplinarian and industrious woman who instilled in her the value of saving and preparation. “Grandma taught me how to save for the rainy day and even how to preserve food like drying snails for difficult times,” she said.
Other tributes poured in from family members. Mr. Samuel Frazer, an in-law, described Mama as prayerful and impactful, while Mrs. Jumoke Iluyemi, one of Mama’s daughters, highlighted her dedication to ensuring all her children were trained up to university level. She also recalled Mama’s resilience after a serious accident in 2020 that damaged her legs, noting that she continues to walk without support.
Mama’s cousin, Pastor Rotimi Talabi, shared fond memories of their youth, including Mama’s efforts to support him during his university days in Port Harcourt by sending foodstuffs and smoked meat.
The officiating minister, Pastor Joshua Ayeni of Salvation Evangelical Ministry, praised Mama’s prayerful life and urged her children to continue to shower her with love and care. He described the house dedication as a testimony of grace, adding: “Salaries alone cannot buy land, let alone build such a marvelous house. This is a blessing worth celebrating.”
The double ceremony was attended by family members, grandchildren across three generations, ambassadors, dignitaries, and close friends who joined in celebrating a matriarch described as industrious, prayerful, and deeply committed to her children’s success.
Bolanle Frazer, fondly called Bola, is a respected producer with Channels Television. She holds a degree in Geography and Planning from Lagos State University and a Master’s in Diplomacy and Strategic Studies from the University of Lagos. She is married to Adetokunbo Frazer.