Publisher of City People magazine, Seye Kehinde, marked his 60th birthday in grand style on Thursday with a celebration that drew notable figures including former Lagos State governor Babatunde Fashola, Pastor Idowu Iluyomade and his wife Siju Iluyomade and Rev Mother Esther Ajayi.
The day began with a thanksgiving service held at the Methodist Church on Salvation Road, Opebi, Ikeja, Lagos.
This was followed by a birthday lecture at Oranmiyan Hall, Airport Hotel, along Obafemi Awolowo Way, also in Ikeja.
The lecture was delivered by Fashola, who praised Kehinde’s contribution to journalism, before guests moved on to a colourful reception.
The dress code for the event was traditional attire—white outfits paired with turquoise blue caps and head ties.
Veteran juju singer Ebenezer Obey was on hand to serenade guests, while dignitaries such as Ovation publisher Dele Momodu were also in attendance.
President Bola Tinubu, who could not attend the event, celebrated Kehinde with a heartfelt tribute posted online.
He commended the media veteran for his pivotal role in reshaping lifestyle journalism in Nigeria through City People, which was founded in November 1996.
The President recalled Kehinde’s early days at African Concord, his co-founding of The NEWS and TEMPO magazines in 1993 and his eventual decision to launch his own publication.
Tinubu described Kehinde’s journey as one of resilience, innovation, and dedication to media excellence.
“Seye Kehinde’s remarkable journey from a bold reporter to a respected media entrepreneur is an inspiring example to the younger generation,” the President stated.
“His career illustrates how dedication and consistency can elevate one to the pinnacle of professional achievement.”
Tinubu urged the publisher to continue championing credible, people-oriented journalism, especially in the evolving digital age and prayed for more fruitful years ahead.
