Mrs Funke Arthur-Worrey, the President of the International Women’s Society and leader of the society’s Board of Trustees, reflects on her life as she nears 97 years, in a conversation with GODFREY GEORGE and TOLULOPE FASUAN.
How does it feel to be 97?
Approaching my 97th birthday on April 23, 2024, fills me with immense joy. I feel loved and blessed by God. The journey of my life has been filled with beautiful blessings for which I am grateful. I humbly acknowledge the goodness of God in my life and cannot fathom how I have been so graciously led to this grand age. With each passing milestone, I have been increasingly compelled to offer my praise to the Almighty. My heart overflows with gratitude for His countless blessings and favor upon me.
Did you ever imagine you would live to be 97?
To be honest, the thought of reaching 97 never crossed my mind. Reflecting on how I reached this age feels like a miraculous journey where my life’s experiences have beautifully intertwined to bring me to this present moment. It almost feels surreal to be on the brink of turning 97. Life’s unpredictability makes it challenging to foresee such milestones. Growing up, witnessing individuals who were 50 years old seemed like encountering elders, and now, at 97, I am truly grateful for this incredible journey.
My existence itself seems like a miracle.
Despite being 97, you maintain your eloquence, laughter, and independence. What’s your secret?
(Chuckling) Indeed, I retain these qualities and more. I still indulge in cracking and relishing crabs with my teeth, savoring eba and various soups. My teeth serve me well, enabling me to enjoy whatever culinary delights I desire. My autonomy remains intact as I navigate my way through life, relishing trips to the market, particularly in Epe, where I delight in procuring fresh seafood and marveling at the wonders of nature. Nigeria’s allure captivates me; I hold a deep affection for this nation.
Can you recount some unforgettable memories from your 97 years on Earth?
My formative years, spent in Lagos, hold cherished memories. A time characterized by freedom of movement, absence of traffic congestion, and a period where parental figures played pivotal roles in children’s lives. The community fostered a nurturing environment where everyone was regarded as family, instilling values and discipline. Recalling those days evokes a sense of nostalgia for a bygone era marked by communal living and collective upbringing.
Is there a particular event from your life that brings a smile to your face?
One memorable moment that never fails to bring a smile to my face is when I crossed paths with my husband in 1950. Our union, which unfolded like a serendipitous encounter, blossomed into a profound companionship. His unexpected arrival from England, where he worked as a teacher, and our subsequent marriage, surpassed all my expectations. He became not just my spouse but my confidant, my pillar of support, and my dearest friend.
His presence in my life illuminated every aspect, bringing joy, comfort, and contentment beyond measure.
Where is he now?
Regrettably, he passed away approximately 13 years ago. His loss left a void in my heart, yet I am eternally grateful for the invaluable gift of his companionship and love throughout our shared journey. In him, I found fulfillment and completeness, and for that, I remain deeply appreciative.
Your marriage seems to have been a harmonious one…
(Interjecting) Yes, our marriage epitomized harmony and bliss. For over half a century, we savored a harmonious partnership filled with love and mutual respect. His thoughtfulness extended to remembering not only my birthdays but also those of our extended family, manifesting his genuine care and consideration for others.
His amiable nature endeared him to the neighborhood children, who regarded him not just as a father figure but as a friend, engaging in spirited activities and creating lasting memories together.
His absence is keenly felt, a testament to the profound impact he had on my life.
How did you come to meet each other?
Our meeting was serendipitous, as he crossed paths with my late brother in England. His proclamation of our future together took me by surprise, yet it set the stage for a remarkable journey of friendship and love culminating in marriage. Through him, I discovered a deep appreciation for faith, humanity, and the enduring power of love.
Was the marriage celebrated in England or Lagos?
Our union was solemnized in London, following a traditional Nigerian engagement ceremony. Our decades-long companionship was marked by unwavering support, companionship, and unwavering love. His presence in my life was a source of strength and solace, forever cherished and deeply missed.
Your childhood sounds idyllic. Would you like to share more about your upbringing?
My childhood in Lagos was marked by close-knit communities and familial connections that transcended neighborhoods. From Mushin to Oshodi, we lived as one extended family, with mutual care and respect underpinning our interactions. Despite challenges, the spirit of communal living fostered a sense of belonging and camaraderie, defining my formative years with warmth and unity.
Remember the old Lagos?
I do miss it. The media should highlight the positive aspects of Lagos to show that not everything is negative in the city. There are still good things in the new Lagos.
Currently, I avoid watching the news. It’s disheartening every time you tune in, with reports of distressing events like rape and kidnapping dominating the airwaves. We need to shift the focus towards empowering the youth and providing them with support.
Our women are resilient, starting their day early to go to the markets with their children. Yet, we haven’t seen a female governor in Lagos. The token Deputy Governor roles are not sufficient; women deserve more significant roles.
We aspire for a female President in Nigeria. Women should have an equal chance to lead, with the potential to govern at least 10 out of the 36 states in the country.
How can women work towards achieving these goals?
While I may not be able to contest again due to age, women should start by supporting each other. We must stand united and provide mutual encouragement.
We should not allow anyone to belittle us. In some regions of Nigeria, women are still not regarded as full individuals without a man by their side. There’s a dire need for enlightenment.
You mentioned that in the past, when you were younger, security was better. How did the situation deteriorate?
It’s puzzling. The decline seemed to start with the Chibok girls’ abduction in 2014, a decade ago. Since then, peace has been elusive for the nation. Previously, such incidents were more remote, but insecurity has now spread nationwide.
The increasing trend of kidnappings is particularly alarming. The unity and support in Yoruba culture helped maintain safety before. However, with the population surge, diverse elements have emerged. The authorities are working to combat these threats, but there’s much to be done. Nigeria is a state we cherish and must safeguard.
We are witnessing a significant emigration of young Nigerians. How do you perceive this trend?
This phenomenon is not unique to Nigeria; it’s a global occurrence. Although I don’t approve of it, movement between countries signifies development. This emphasizes the importance of enhancing our own nation.
Are there activities you enjoyed in your youth that old age has restricted?
I engage in various activities, though I no longer frequent beauty spas. I remain active, managing my daily tasks, culinary preferences, and charitable endeavors.
While I participate in meetings and events, physical exertion now requires a more cautious approach due to age. Nonetheless, I relish quality time with my family.
What advice do you offer to youths aspiring for a long and fulfilling life?
It saddens me when young individuals succumb to health issues prematurely. Longevity is a gift from God that cannot be predicted. I’m grateful for every day of my 97-year life, acknowledging that there’s no magical formula for longevity.
Youths should strive for patience and embrace societal amenities to minimize frustration. Believing in oneself is essential for success, avoiding detrimental paths and pursuing rightful achievements.
Patience and wisdom grow with age, teaching valuable lessons on finding inner peace and harmony. Trusting in personal qualities is crucial for navigating challenges.
Frustrations may lead some to undesirable paths like fraud or substance abuse, underscoring the need for resilience and ethical choices leading towards success.
What guidance do you have for the government?
Prayers and support are vital for the government during challenging times. Despite the current difficulties, there’s hope for improvement. We must collectively wish for their success and a better future.
I heard you still enjoy painting your nails and applying makeup at your age…
Indeed, doing makeup brings me joy and satisfaction. It’s a simple pleasure that I cherish.
What drives your passion at this stage of life?
I’m passionate about empowering women in politics. My desire is to see more women taking leadership positions, including six female governors and a female vice president. Women need to campaign for their rights and assert their place in governance.
How do you feel about the achievements of your successful children?
I’m immensely proud and grateful to God for their accomplishments. It’s a source of joy and blessing for me, making me feel incredibly fortunate.