For Abayomi Oviebo, celebrating his father, Engr. Akintunde Oviebo, at 70 is an opportunity to reflect on a man whose influence extends far beyond his profession as an engineer. As an architect, Abayomi traces part of his interest in design and construction to the technical drawing books and building models that surrounded him while growing up.

But beyond career influence, Abayomi describes his father as a loving, supportive and protective father whose life has been shaped by faith, humility, patience, perseverance and an unwavering commitment to God. He recalls a childhood filled with joy and laughter and appreciates the sacrifices his father has consistently made for the family.

In this special birthday interview with Christian Benefits, Abayomi speaks about the values his father instilled in him, the qualities he has sought to emulate, the sacrifices he has made for his family and the spiritual legacy he is building at 70. Above all, he celebrates a father whose growing relationship with God has remained a source of inspiration to him and whose life, he says, demonstrates that perseverance, faith and hard work can produce a lasting legacy.

How would you like to be introduced to our readers?
My name is Abayomi Oviebo.

What is your present career or vocation?
I am an Architect.

How would you explain your dad’s contribution to your career path?
My dad is an engineer, and growing up, I was always surrounded by books on technical drawing and building models. Those books sparked my interest in design and construction and played a significant role in my decision to pursue architecture.

What childhood memories of your dad remain most special?
I honestly cannot pick a singular memory because, even till today, we continue to create amazing memories together. Much of my childhood was filled with joy and laughter, and I have my dad to thank for so much of that.

What values did your dad instil in you growing up?
He taught me to always put God first in my life, to be kind and humble, and to have faith. He also taught me never to take my accomplishments for granted or believe that they are solely by my own efforts, but to always recognise the grace of God.

How has your dad influenced your character and life choices?
He is a true gentleman, kind, humble, and God-fearing. I have always looked up to him and tried to emulate these qualities in my own life. Most importantly, he taught me to put God first and to always pray, regardless of how I feel or what circumstances I may be facing.

What sacrifices has your dad made for your family?
My dad has always put his family before himself. Whether it is financial sacrifices or giving his time, he has never hesitated to be there whenever we need him. He has always shown up for his family, and that is something I deeply appreciate.

What quality of your dad do you admire most?
The qualities I admire most about my dad are his patience, humility, and, above all, his strong relationship with God.

What makes you particularly proud of your dad at 70?
I am proud of the man he has become. I have watched him grow deeper in his faith over the years, and that has been truly inspiring. I am also proud that, even when the odds were against him, he never gave up. Through perseverance, faith, and hard work, he has successfully built a lasting legacy.

Lastly, how would you describe your dad as a father, husband, and Christian?
As a father, he is loving, supportive, and protective, always putting his family first. As a husband, he is loving, devoted, and deeply caring. As a Christian, his faith is at the centre of his life, and he has consistently reflected that faith through his character, his actions, and the values he has passed on to us.