Mrs. Olu-Ayorinde, ‘Mama Fine-Fine’ at 60: A Journey of Faith, Love, and Resilience

Today, we celebrate a remarkable woman, Mrs. Janet Olu-Ayorinde, as she turned 60 on August 11, 2025. She is the devoted wife of Prof. B.J.O. Ayorinde, a distinguished leader whose career and ministry have taken him to various places, sometimes away from home. Together, they have been blessed with wonderful children who are a source of pride and joy.

A woman of grace, strength, and wisdom, Mrs. Olu- Ayorinde known as Madam fine fine has balanced the responsibilities of marriage, motherhood, and the unique calling of being the wife of a Pastor and Comrade. Her journey has also included seasons where she had to live far from her family, showing resilience and deep faith.

At 60, Mama Fine-Fine stands as a living testimony of God’s grace, unshakable faith, and a heart full of love. For more than three decades, she has balanced the roles of devoted wife, nurturing mother, mentor, and community pillar with a rare blend of elegance and strength. Her journey has been marked by seasons of joy and trials, yet through it all, she has carried herself with quiet resilience, unwavering commitment, and a steadfast smile. As family, friends, and well-wishers gather to honour her Diamond Jubilee, her life story shines as an inspiration, a reminder that true beauty lies not only in appearance but in a legacy of service, faith, and love that touches generations.

With a family background that shaped her values and broadened her horizons, Mrs. Olu-Ayorinde has lived a life guided by her personal philosophy of service, faith, and commitment to God and excellence. Her interests and passions reflect a woman who not only nurtures others but also continually grows herself. As she steps into a new decade of life, she carries with her rich lessons from the past and clear hopes for the future.

In this interview with ValidViewNetwork, she shared a bit of her inspiring journey as she focuses on a better and brighter future.

ValidViewNetwork: You have just turned 60. How does this milestone feel to you, and what thoughts or emotions come to mind as you reflect on your journey so far?

Mrs Olu-Ayorinde: Honestly, turning 60 is a blessing I do not take for granted. I am grateful not just for the years, but for the experiences that have shaped me into who I am today. I have had my share of challenges, but they have been stepping stones that gave me resilience and perspective.

It is also a moment of reflection. I am more conscious of how I spend my time, with  whom I spend it with, and what kind of impact I want to leave. The milestone reminds me that life is precious, and the years ahead are an opportunity to live more intentionally, love more deeply, and making every moment count. It is about living with purpose and joy.

ValidViewNetwork: You have been blessed with a wonderful family , a husband with a remarkable leadership career and lovely children. How would you describe the role your family has played in shaping your life?

Mrs. Olu-Ayorinde: My husband’s remarkable leadership career has not only inspired me but also shown me the value of vision, discipline, and integrity. Watching the way he leads has been a constant reminder that leadership is as much about service as it is about direction.

Our children have been my greatest teachers in patience, unconditional love, and joy. They have been amazing and wonderful and I can only give credit to God. They have been my anchor in moments of challenge and lifted my spirit in ways I can’t fully put into words.

Everything I have achieved, I have been able to do because of the love, support, and encouragement of my family. They have been my safe place, my support system and my biggest cheerleaders. Truly, they have shaped not just the path I have taken, but the person I have become.

ValidViewNetwork: Your husband, Prof. B.J.O. Ayorinde, has had to take on responsibilities that sometimes-meant weekends or periods away from home. How did you manage your home during those times and maintain a strong marital bond?

Mrs. Olu-Ayorinde: I remember there was a time my first daughter fell ill after my husband went on a work trip because she missed him. That was her first conscious awareness of her dad travelling. One would think with time, we should get used to it but I missed him and felt his absence each time he travelled. On the emotional side, I made sure we stayed connected through phone calls, letters, little updates so that distance never meant disconnection. Most importantly, I never saw his absences as a sign of neglect, but as part of the shared vision we had for our family. We both knew his work was meaningful, and that gave me the strength to hold things together at home with love rather than resentment.

We tried as much as possible to make the time we had together count. I must give the accolades to my husband. Whether it was a simple family meal, or a quiet evening talking, we prioritised connection over perfection. I believe that is what has kept our marriage strong- knowing we are on the same team, irrespective of the distance.

Being able to balance my job and manage the children required a lot of planning and grace especially while I worked in the hotel. It was not always easy as work could get really busy and hectic. I learned to keep routines steady for the children, made sure responsibilities were handled, and created an atmosphere where everyone felt secured. I am especially thankful for my adoptive children, Dupe and Grace, a true blessing from God who stepped in and took on the responsibilities of older siblings. Their maturity, love, and support made a huge difference, helping to keep the home running smoothly and the younger ones cared for during those busy times.

ValidViewNetwork: Can you tell us about your family background and how it shaped your perspectives and prepared you for the different roles you have played in life?

Mrs. Olu-Ayorinde: My father was a Pastor – Pastor Samuel Ogunkunle Akindiya from Owu, Abeokuta married to Deaconess Alice Akindiya from Ilara Mokin, Ondo State. Growing up in the mission house, I saw firsthand, the importance of resilience – how to face challenges with grace and determination. My parents and elders instilled in me a deep sense of responsibility, integrity, and respect for others, which became the guiding principles in my personal and professional life.

That upbringing prepared me for the many roles I have played as a wife, mother, career woman, and mentor. It taught me that leadership begins with service, that love is shown through consistent action, and that faith is the anchor in every storm. Those early lessons shaped not just what I do, but who I am, and they continue to influence how I approach every season of life.

ValidViewNetwork: Can you tell us about your academic background and how your education shaped your perspectives and prepared you for the different roles you have played in life?

Mrs. Olu-Ayorinde: My academic journey has been anything but traditional. I attended Lisabi Primary School, for my primary school leaving certificate and Oke-Ona Grammar School/Baptist Girls Grammar School, Idi-Aba, all in Abeokuta. I earned a Diploma in Catering Services, what we fondly called “Olobe” at Government Technical College, Idi-Aba, Abeokuta, and at the time, I thought that would be the end of my formal education. Life was full with work, marriage, and raising children, and I did not imagine going back to school. I just was not interested.

But my husband believed I could do more, and he was my greatest push. At the age of 40, with my last child almost due, I took a bold step to pursue my degree. It was far from easy, balancing lectures, assignments, and motherhood while preparing to welcome a baby but it taught me resilience and the importance of never limiting oneself. At last, I acquired my B.Sc. (Ed.) in Home Economics and Hotel Management from Tai Solarin University of Education, Ijagun now Tai Solarin Federal University of Education. This spurred me to go further for my masters degree at Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ayetoro Campus but I could not finish for some personal reasons.

That experience reshaped my perspective completely. It prepared me to take on different roles in life with confidence, knowing that with determination, faith, and the right support, no dream is too late to chase and achieve.

ValidViewNetwork: As a mother, what values and principles were most important to you in raising your children, especially while balancing other commitments?

Mrs. Olu-Ayorinde: As a mother, I always believed that the most important things I could give my children were strong values, a sense of identity, and a foundation of faith in God. I wanted them to understand the importance of faith, integrity, respect for others, kindness, and commitment to hard work not just in words, but through the way I lived my life.

I made sure the children felt seen, heard, and loved. We valued open communication, shared meals whenever possible, and prayed together. I also taught them responsibility early on, so they understood that every member of the family contributes to its well-being.

For me, it was never about being a perfect mother; it was about being present. I wanted my children to grow up knowing they could stand on their own two feet, make wise choices, and treat others with compassion and dignity.

ValidViewNetwork: As the wife of a Pastor, which carries spiritual and community leadership responsibilities. What have been the most memorable and fulfilling moments in that role?

Mrs. Olu-Ayorinde: Being the wife of a Church Leader/Officer has been both a calling and a privilege. It is a role that touches every part of life spiritual, emotional, and social and over the years, the most memorable and fulfilling moments have always been tied to seeing lives transformed.

ValidViewNetwork: Recently, you had to live far away from your family. How did you handle the emotional, spiritual, and practical challenges of that separation?

Mrs. Olu-Ayorinde: Living far away from my family has been one of the hardest seasons of my life. Emotionally, I missed the everyday moments the laughter at the dinner table, the little updates, even the quiet presence of simply being together. Spiritually, I leaned heavily on prayer and faith, trusting that God was watching over them and keeping us connected. I can say that I have become closer to God than ever before. Distance reminded me that I could not always protect or guide my family with my own hands, but I could entrust them daily to God’s care.

Practically, I kept communication alive and made sure communication stayed consistent. We called often, shared photos and messages, and celebrated milestones together, even if it had to be through a screen, which helped bridge the gap. I also trusted the responsibilities I has taught my children over the years. They knew how to care for themselves and each other, which gave me peace of mind.

Our bond as a family stayed strong because it was built on trust, faith, and intentional connection.

ValidViewNetwork: Beyond family and ministry, what are some of your personal interests, hobbies, or passions that give you joy and keep you inspired?

Mrs. Olu-Ayorinde: Beyond my family and ministry, I find joy in simple but deeply fulfilling things. I have always believed in nurturing the parts of myself that bring joy, creativity, and renewal. Cooking is a major source of joy for me, trying new recipes, sharing a good laugh with friends, or exploring a craft or skill just for the pleasure of it. It is a way of bringing people together and sharing love through a meal. I am passionate about mentoring and empowering young women, helping them discover their strengths and purpose. I love being around children and spending quality time with them. My newly found activity is being with the Nigerian Girl Guides Association as a Matron. It has opened me to connecting with more purpose driven people and doing the things that I love. All these keep me inspired and remind me that life is not only about duty, but also about delight.

ValidViewNetwork: What drives you in life, the personal motivations or guiding principles that keep you going in challenging times?
Mrs. Olu-Ayorinde: What drives me in life is my family, faith in God and the conviction that my life is meant to serve a purpose bigger than myself. A deep conviction that every season, whether joyful or challenging, has purpose. I believe God has entrusted me with a responsibility to love, to serve, and to leave a positive mark wherever I am. That belief keeps me steady, even in challenging times.

I am also driven by the desire to be a source of strength for my family and a role model for the younger generation, especially young women. I want them to see that resilience, integrity, and kindness are not weaknesses but powerful tools for navigating life.

In whatever I do, I do it wholeheartedly, with excellence, and in a way that uplifts others. That is what keeps me going when the road gets tough. Bye and large, I want to live my life in such a way that when I look back, I see a legacy of integrity, kindness, and encouragement.

ValidViewNetwork: Do you have a personal life philosophy or motto that has helped you navigate different seasons of life?

Mrs. Olu-Ayorinde:  One personal life philosophy that has consistently guided me is this: “Grace in every step.” It reminds me to approach life with kindness – both toward others and myself especially when things do not go as planned. Life’s seasons are full of surprises, challenges, and unexpected turns, and this motto helps me stay grounded in patience and compassion rather than frustration or self-judgment. “Grace in every step” also means embracing humility, recognizing that I do not have all the answers and that it is okay to rely on faith and community. It encourages me to move forward with hope, knowing that even imperfect progress is still progress.

My slogan is “eni ebi ba n pa, pot e lo ma si….” which literarily means, “whoever is hungry will eat only from his/her pot” Do everything with faith, love, and excellence. My walk with Christ keeps me grounded, love shapes how I treat others, and excellence pushes me to give my very best in every season of life. I have learned that challenges will come, but if you stay anchored in faith, lead with love, and commit to doing things well, you can walk through even the hardest seasons with grace and strength.

ValidViewNetwork: Looking back over the years, what are three life lessons that stand out as defining moments for you?

Mrs. Olu-Ayorinde: Relationships are life’s true wealth. No journey is meant to be travelled alone. Family, friends, mentors, the people you serve alongside, and community have been my lifelines. I have learned to invest in these relationships deeply, to listen more than I speak, and to offer grace generously. Those connections provide strength, wisdom, and joy.

Embracing change with faith: Change is inevitable, and sometimes it is uncomfortable or frightening. But I discovered that leaning into faith, trusting that there is a greater plan beyond what I can see transforms uncertainty into opportunity. Embracing change with an open heart has allowed me to grow in resilience and hope. These lessons have been my compass through different seasons, helping me navigate both the highs and lows with grace and purpose.

The power of patience and persistence: Life doesn’t always move at the pace we want. There were seasons when progress seemed slow or obstacles felt overwhelming, but I learned that steady, faithful effort even in small steps eventually leads to growth and breakthrough. Patience is not passive; it is an active trust in the process.

ValidViewNetwork: If you could give one piece of advice to younger women about balancing marriage, career, motherhood, and personal growth, what would it be?

Mrs. Olu-Ayorinde: My advice to younger women navigating the beautiful but complex balance of marriage, career, motherhood, and personal growth is to prioritize self-compassion and intentionality. It is easy to feel pulled in many directions and to believe you have to do it all perfectly. But perfection is neither realistic nor necessary.

Instead, be kind to yourself when things feel overwhelming or do not go as planned. Give yourself grace to rest, to reset, and to say no when needed.

Always be present in every role, but do not lose yourself in any one of them. Marriage, career, motherhood, and personal growth can coexist, but it takes intention. Set your priorities, communicate openly with your loved ones, and give yourself permission to ask for help when you need it. Remember that you cannot pour from an empty cup. Taking care of your own well-being is not selfish, it is what allows you to show up fully for others. And through it all, keep learning, keep dreaming, and keep nurturing your relationship with God. That’s what will keep you balanced and fulfilled, no matter the season of life.

ValidViewNetwork: What would you say to women whose husbands have demanding careers or ministry roles that keep them away from home for periods of time?

Mrs. Olu-Ayorinde: To women whose husbands have demanding careers or ministry roles that require them to be away from home at times, I want you to know that your role is vital and deeply valued even when it feels lonely or challenging. It is natural to miss your spouse and feel the weight of managing home and heart alone during those absences. But remember, you are the steady foundation that keeps your family anchored. Your love, patience, and faithfulness create a safe harbor where your husband can return refreshed and renewed. Communication is key find ways to stay connected, whether through calls, messages, or shared prayers. And lean on your community for support; you do not have to carry every burden by yourself.

The role you play at home is invaluable. It is not about filling his shoes; it is about holding the fort with grace until he is back, knowing you are both working towards a shared purpose.

ValidViewNetwork: At 60, what are your dreams, targets, or plans for the next chapter of your life?

Mrs. Olu-Ayorinde: At 60, my heart is full of gratitude, but also excitement for what’s ahead. I see this next chapter as a time to focus on legacy – to be more deliberate about the lives I touch and the values I pass on. I want to keep inspiring and supporting others.

The new chapter is a time of intentional living where dreams are shaped by wisdom gained and a desire to make meaningful impact. I dream of deepening relationships with family, friends, and community investing more time in nurturing those bonds that bring joy and purpose.

There is also a strong desire to continue learning and growing, whether through reading, mentoring younger women, or exploring new interests that enrich the spirit. In terms of targets, I hope to balance restful seasons with active engagement perhaps taking on roles that allow me to give back, such as volunteering or supporting causes close to my heart. I want to be a source of encouragement and guidance, sharing lessons learned in ways that inspire others.

My plans include prioritizing health and well-being, so I can fully enjoy this stage of life with energy and gratitude. Traveling to places that stir curiosity and wonder is also on the horizon embracing adventure with open arms.

Most importantly, I want to slow down just enough to savour life’s simple blessings, spend more time with my loved ones, my family especially and walk even more closely with God.

ValidViewNetwork: Finally, if you could summarise your life’s story in one heartfelt sentence, what would it be?

Mrs. Olu-Ayorinde: My life’s story is one deeply rooted in love, resilience, and most especially the grace of God carrying me through every season of life.

Meanwhile the husband, Prof. B.J.O. Ayorinde and many others have taken to several platforms to extol the virtues of this great woman of valour. In an outpouring of emotions and a confirmation of a life of faith and resilience, the husband wrote : “To you, Jane – my beloved wife, my priceless diamond, my dear Mama Fine-Fine, on this glorious occasion of your 60th birthday – a true Diamond Jubilee – I thank God for the treasure you are. I give all glory to God for the precious gift of your life. For more than 33 years, you have been my partner, my encourager in trials, my friend, my sister, my mother, and the joy of my heart.

It’s obvious, you got married later than many, you waited patiently through the delay of motherhood, yet you never let life’s seasons dim your faith or your smile. Today, as I look at you, I see a shining example of God’s grace, strength, and beauty. Happy birthday to a worthy wife and a fine quiet woman. A lover of God and all people, peace-loving, caring, humble, hard-working, amiable and mother.  I celebrate you today as you turn 60. I celebrate your generosity, your amiable spirit, your hospitality, your humility, your enterprise, your love for God and for children, which reflects God’s heart.

Your path will continue to shine, God’s countenance of favour will be upon you, His wisdom and understanding will increase in your life. May your years ahead be sweeter than your years gone by. As your days, so shall your strength be. You will live long in health and vitality. Happy diamond jubilee, my love/Mama Fine-Fine. May your health be sound, your strength be renewed daily like the eagle and your joy overflow without measure.

As Mrs. Olu-Ayorinde steps into this new chapter of her life, her heart remains anchored in the values that have defined her journey: faith in God, love for people, and excellence in all she does. The decades behind her tell the story of a woman who has weathered life’s seasons with dignity, leaving footprints of kindness, wisdom, and hope wherever she has walked. The years ahead promise to be even brighter, filled with continued impact, deeper relationships, and fresh adventures. At 60, Mama Fine-Fine is not slowing down, she is simply stepping into her most purposeful season yet, a living diamond whose brilliance only grows with time, ValidViewNetwork reports.