The Grandma Who Refused to Retire – A review of Behind the Curtain Aderonke Fetuga’s A Leadership Story

Title: Behind the Curtain: Aderonke Fetuga, A Leadership Story

Year of Publication: 2025

Number of Pages: 115

Category: Self Help

Many Nigerians, especially women in their 50s and 60s, quietly begin to disappear. They start saying things like, “My time has passed,” or “I’m too old for that now.” They slowly pack away the dreams they once had. Aderonke Fetuga clearly missed that meeting.

Even in her 70s, she is still living life on her own terms and doing exactly what makes her happy. From the moment you see the book cover, with her stylish hat sitting proudly on her head, you already know this is not your regular Nigerian grandma. She gives off the energy of someone who has stopped asking for permission and has absolutely no interest in what people think. If society says, “Act your age,” Aderonke simply smiles, adjusts her hat and carries on. That same confidence runs through every page of this book.

Aderonke tells her story with honesty. She is outspoken, but never harsh. She says what she believes, shares her experiences without holding back, and is refreshingly honest about both her successes and her mistakes. She doesn’t pretend to have all the answers, and that makes her even more believable.

One thing becomes obvious almost immediately: Aderonke Fetuga is deeply in love with books. Not just reading them, but everything they represent.
Books have shaped her life, influenced her thinking and even become part of her life’s work through publishing. Her love for reading shines through the pages, and by the time you finish the book, you may find yourself wanting to visit the nearest library or bookshop. Her enthusiasm is infectious. But she isn’t only passionate about books.

She is passionate about life. She plays golf, enjoys meaningful friendships, builds businesses, mentors younger people and continues to embrace new experiences with the energy of someone decades younger. It is almost unbelievable that someone in her 70s is still so curious, active and full of life. Age, for her, is simply another number, not a limitation.

As she reflects on her journey, she freely offers advice to younger generations, but never in a way that feels preachy.

Instead, her stories gently encourage readers to think differently about purpose, relationships and personal growth. Her empathy comes through clearly, making her feel less like a lecturer and more like the wise mentor everyone wishes they had.

The book moves quickly and never feels weighed down by unnecessary details. Her passion jumps off every page. When she is excited, you become excited. When she faces uncertainty, you find yourself hoping everything works out. That emotional connection makes the memoir difficult to put down.

There may be moments when readers disagree with some of her opinions, but that is part of the book’s charm. Aderonke never claims to know everything. She simply shares what life has taught her and leaves readers to draw their own conclusions.

Perhaps the biggest lesson from the book is that reinvention has no expiry date. Many people spend their later years counting what they have lost. Aderonke spends hers discovering what is still possible. That is inspiring.

Whether you are 25, 45 or 75, her story reminds you that there is always another dream to chase, another skill to learn and another chapter waiting to be written.

Young Nigerian women, in particular, will find much to admire in her journey. She proves that success is not just about building a career but about building a life you genuinely enjoy.

By the final page, it is difficult not to wish you could sit down with and listen to more of her stories. She has the warmth of a favourite aunt, the wisdom of a grandmother and the curiosity of someone who still believes the best is yet to come.

Behind the Curtain, Aderonke Fetuga’s A Leadership Story is more than a memoir. It is a joyful reminder that life does not end at 50, 60 or even 70. As long as you are willing to keep learning, keep reading, keep dreaming and keep showing up, there is still plenty of living left to do.

And if Aderonke Fetuga can keep chasing life with such enthusiasm in her 70s, what excuse does anyone else have?

About the reviewer

Titilade Oyemade is a business executive in a leading organisation and holds a degree in Russian Language. She’s the convener of the Hangoutwithtee Ladies Event and the Publisher of Hangoutwithtee magazine. She spends her weekends attending women conferences, events and book readings. She loves to have fun and to help other women have the same in their lives. Email: [email protected] Social: @tiipreeofficial