…A Life of style, service and strength: The remarkable journey of Mummy Janet Brai
…Elegance, faith, longevity – tribute to a mother, minister and matriarch
BENJAMIN OMOIKE
It was an atmosphere drenched in joy, gratitude and soft-spoken elegance on Sunday, November 9, as family, friends, neighbours and members of the Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries (MFM) gathered to celebrate an extraordinary milestone: The 80th birthday of Pastor (Mrs) Janet Aitoleseme Brai.
Though her actual birthday fell on Monday, November 10, the celebration was brought forward to Sunday, offering guests a perfect opportunity to honour a woman whose life continues to radiate grace, strength and unwavering faith.
Thanksgiving in God’s Presence
Festivities began with a spirited Thanksgiving Service at the MFM Festac Mega Region 12, where Pastor Brai currently serves as an ordained minister and a leader in the Breakthrough Clinic. Surrounded by her children and grandchildren, she danced in gratitude, her joy matched only by that of the congregation who joined her in celebrating God’s faithfulness over eight remarkable decades.
To many in attendance, Mummy, as she is fondly called by her children, embodies resilience and quiet dignity. Her steps that morning were not just celebratory; they were a testament to a life filled with testimonies and triumphs.
A Celebration at Home, Full of Warmth and Opulence
After the service, guests made their way to her serene residence in Satellite Town, Lagos. There, an exquisitely curated reception awaited—an impressive spread of local and continental dishes, premium beverages and thoughtful souvenirs, all reflecting Pastor Brai’s refined taste and the deep love her children poured into organising the occasion.
Flawlessly coordinated, the event drew praise for its organisation and festive ambience. Clad in a resplendent traditional purple-coloured lace ensemble, Mummy was the radiant centre of attention. She moved gracefully through the crowd, dancing joyfully to indigenous and contemporary praise music, surrounded by family members and well-wishers who echoed prayers of longevity, strength and divine favour.
Some guests marvelled at her youthful appearance, insisting they could hardly believe she was 80. Others presented gifts as a symbolic Christian seed, tapping into the anointing they believed flowed from her life.
There was a high presence of the clergy, considering her position in church.
It was, without question, a day to be remembered—one that will sit memorably in the annals of her family’s history.
The Woman Behind the Celebration: A Life of Purpose and Poise
Born on Saturday, November 10, 1945, on Lagos Island, Janet Aitoleseme Brai (née Yerima), is the second of six children of the late Alhaji Yerima and Aminetu Kasimu. Her roots trace to Ivbiaro-Ebese in Owan-East LGA of Edo State, but her life story spans continents, cultures and decades of remarkable transitions.
She began her education in Isale-Eko, proceeding to Metropolitan Girls School, Yaba, after which she secured employment as a secretary at the Ministry of Defence. Her destiny shifted beautifully when she met a young diplomat, Patrick Momodu Brai, a staff of the Ministry of External Affairs. Their union was sealed in a modest civil ceremony in Lagos in 1966, leading to a life that would take her across Europe and Africa.
A Fashionable Detour and Global Exposure
During her husband’s diplomatic postings, particularly in Rome, she immersed herself in fashion—studying at a top-tier Italian fashion school and later advancing her secretarial education at the American Business School in Rome. Her passion for style was unmistakable and, upon returning to Nigeria after her husband’s early retirement in 1984, she opened Alta Moda, a fashion house that quickly became the toast of Satellite Town and later Iponri Shopping Centre.
For nearly two decades, she designed for high-profile women, redefining elegance for many in Lagos. Those who lived in Satellite Town in the 80s and 90s still recall the bustling creative energy of her shop—tailors, apprentices, customers—all part of a thriving fashion ecosystem driven by her creative flair.
The Minister with a Touch of Compassion
In 2002, Mummy Brai quietly transitioned into active church service, offering her time, compassion and resources. Her commitment unfolded across various church branches until August 2025, when she was officially ordained as a pastor—one of 5,000 honoured that year. Her ministry today continues to uplift, heal and inspire.
Her life journey has taken her to 25 countries, with residence in six—Italy, Poland, Germany, Sierra Leone, Ivory Coast and Uganda. Beyond her global exposure, her greatest legacy remains her family: three children and nine grandchildren, each of whom she nurtures with intentional love.
A Daughter’s Heartfelt Tribute: “Grace in Motion”
In a touching tribute, her daughter, Amina, captured the essence of Mama’s life—a tapestry woven with determination, creativity, sacrifice and faith.
She reminisced about growing up in the warm hustle of Alta Moda, where festive seasons meant a living room cluttered with half-finished outfits and a mother who worked tirelessly yet stylishly. She recalled attending high-society events, pageants and fashion shows as her mother’s little ‘handbag,’ witnessing firsthand the world of fashion that her mother commanded with flair.
Amina also recounted the tender memories of her boarding-school years in FGGC Benin, when her mother would travel from Lagos—cake on her laps—to make sure her daughter felt celebrated on every birthday. Even widowhood at the age of 49 did not dim her strength. Instead, she became an even fiercer protector, choosing not to remarry in order to focus on raising her children.
Their relationship, Amina admits with a chuckle, has had its fair share of mother-daughter conflicts, but always grounded in deep love.
“At 80, Mummy remains a true example of grace in motion. Her journey is a story of endurance, faith and God’s faithfulness. Today, I celebrate a fighter, a nurturer and a mother whose love is steadfast. Happy 80th Birthday, Mummy.”
A Legacy of Style, Strength and Spiritual Depth
Pastor (Mrs) Janet Aitoleseme Brai’s life is a reflection of many worlds—faith and fashion, motherhood and ministry, elegance and endurance. At 80, she stands as a symbol of timeless grace, inspiring all who encounter her.
Her 80th birthday celebration was not just a party—it was a tribute to a life beautifully lived and still unfolding with purpose.
Here’s to Mummy Janet Brai. Here’s to 80.
Here’s to grace—still in motion.
