At 84 years old, Dr. John Ayoola Akinyemi looks back on a life filled with extraordinary blessings, remarkable achievements, and unwavering faith. In his inspiring memoir, “Praise the Lord, I Am 84 Years 'Young',” Dr. Akinyemi recounts the incredible journey that took him from Abeokuta, Nigeria, to the United States, where determination, education, and hard work transformed his life in ways he never imagined possible.
Raised in a family of Methodist educators in Ogun State, Nigeria, Dr. Akinyemi and his eight siblings were taught the importance of faith, discipline, and perseverance from an early age. Guided by the biblical principle, “In all your ways, acknowledge God and He will guide your paths,” he developed a strong foundation that would shape every chapter of his life.
In 1963, after completing his education at Methodist Boys High School in Lagos, Nigeria, Dr. Akinyemi embarked on a life-changing journey to the United States. Leaving behind familiar surroundings, he pursued higher education and opportunities that would eventually lead him to earn four academic degrees, including a PhD from Howard University and a Master of Public Health degree from Johns Hopkins University.
Through heartfelt storytelling and personal reflection, “Praise the Lord, I Am 84 Years 'Young'” chronicles the challenges, sacrifices, and triumphs that defined his American experience. From humble beginnings as a young immigrant to a successful professional who served the United States Federal Government for 27 years, Dr. Akinyemi's story is a testament to the power of perseverance and personal responsibility.
One of the central themes of the book is gratitude. Dr. Akinyemi reflects on how America provided opportunities that allowed him to achieve goals that may have seemed impossible when he first arrived. He describes his transformation from a self-proclaimed “Nobody” in 1963 into a “Somebody” decades later—not through luck or entitlement, but through faith in God, commitment to education, and a relentless work ethic.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, the memoir celebrates family, love, and legacy. Dr. Akinyemi honors the memory of his late wife, Agnes Ndungwa Akinyemi, with whom he shared nearly fifty years of marriage, while also reflecting on the blessings of his children, grandchildren, and the generations that continue his family's story.
More than an autobiography, “Praise the Lord, I Am 84 Years 'Young'” serves as a motivational guide for readers of all ages. It encourages individuals to embrace hard work, maintain faith through adversity, and appreciate the opportunities available to them, regardless of where they begin in life.
To further celebrate his inspiring life story and message of perseverance, Dr. John Ayoola Akinyemi will also be featured on an upcoming New York Times Square billboard, scheduled to be displayed in New York City.
The book is now available on Amazon and all global platforms.
Grab your copy today!
ASIN: B0F8P2S159
“Praise the Lord, I Am 84 Years 'Young'”
Publisher : The Eagle Literary
Publication date : March 30, 2026
Author: Dr. John Ayoola Akinyemi
Represented by: The Eagle Literary
Book Genre: Autobiography, Memoir, Inspirational, Personal Development, Immigrant Experience
About the Author
Dr. John Ayoola Akinyemi is an accomplished author, educator, public health professional, and retired U.S. Federal Government employee. Born in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria, he was raised in a family dedicated to education, faith, and community service.
After arriving in the United States in 1963, Dr. Akinyemi pursued an exceptional academic journey, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology and Chemistry from Aurora University, a Master's degree from Northern Illinois University, a PhD from Howard University, and a Master of Public Health degree from the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health.
He dedicated 27 years of service to the U.S. Federal Government before retiring in 2006. An avid gardener, singer, dancer, and writer, Dr. Akinyemi continues to inspire others through his books and personal testimony. His works reflect his belief in faith, perseverance, education, and the limitless possibilities available to those willing to work hard and trust in God's guidance.
Today, at 84 years young, he remains committed to sharing his life experiences with readers around the world, proving that age is not a limitation but a celebration of a life well-lived.
— WebWireID356282 —
