It was an atmosphere of joy, music, and heartfelt reflection on Sunday, April 27, 2025, as dignitaries, friends, and family converged to honour a cultural icon and matriarch, Mrs. Baro Francis-Gbaminido, on the occasion of her 61st birthday. The celebration, held in Warri, symbolsis a life steeped in tradition, music, service, and enduring family values.
ROYAL PRESENCE AND HIGH-PROFILE TRIBUTES
The event was graced by His Royal Highness, Dr. Famous Eseduwo, the Amanana-Owei of Angalabiri Federated Community, who served as the Royal Father of the Day. His attendance lent a regal aura to the occasion, underscoring Mrs. Baro’s deep-rooted cultural significance in the Niger Delta.
In attendance were notable figures including, but not limited to:
1. High Chief (Dr.) Dennis Brutu Otuaro, Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), who praised Mrs. Baro’s enduring commitment to grassroots development.
2. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly.
3. High Chief (Engr.) Kestin Pondi, Managing Director of Tantita Security Services Ltd, who applauded her resilience and entrepreneurial values.
4. Engr. Matthew Tonlagha, respected leader in the region, who commended her dedication to family and cultural preservation.
5. Hon. George Ekpemupolo, former Executive Chairman of Warri South-West LGA, who lauded her contributions to Ijaw heritage.
A JOURNEY IMMORTALISED
The highlight of the day was the unveiling of a heartfelt biography titled “The Life and Times of Mrs. Baro Francis-Gbaminido”, compiled by Mr. and Mrs. Jackson Jacko-Embale, her in-laws. The publication chronicled her early years as the lead singer of The Kings Flag Girls, a renowned cultural ensemble of the 1980s, to her revered status as a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and community torchbearer.
Among the emotional moments was the reunion of Mrs. Baro with former bandmates, including High Multiple Chief Vero E. Tangbowei (JP), Gbakena Peregbolu, Rhona Odiki, and others who came together to revive memories of their glorious performing years.
A FAMILY’S PRIDE
Radiant in traditional attire, the celebrant was visibly moved as children, in-laws, and grandchildren took turns to shower her with tributes. Described as “the pillar of the family” and a “living legacy of love,” her impact reverberated across generations.
The event reached its climax with the cutting of the birthday cake, followed by a spirited dance session. True to her musical roots, Mrs. Baro led the performance, dancing with youthful enthusiasm alongside her children and grandchildren — a vivid expression of her timeless rhythm and cultural pride.
A LASTING IMPACT
As the curtains fell on the celebration, guests departed with fond memories and a deepened admiration for a woman whose life continues to inspire. At 61, Mrs. Baro Francis-Gbaminido remains a symbol of elegance, unity, and unwavering dedication to tradition.
