Ikorodu bore witness to a historic and culturally vibrant celebration at the Ikorodu OGA Festival 2025 Grand Finale, where tradition, royalty, and national leadership came together in a memorable display of honour, service, and community pride.
On this remarkable day, history was made as Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, Speaker of the House of Representatives, was installed as the Otunba Adekílúmọ of Ikorodu Kingdom, a prestigious chieftaincy title recognising his exemplary leadership, years of steadfast public service, and enduring connection with the people. This honour reflects his unwavering commitment to national unity, humility, and respectful engagement with the Ikorodu community.
Adding further prestige to the event, the Chief Accountant-General of the Federation was also conferred with an Otunba chieftaincy title, acknowledging his distinguished service, national contribution, and commitment to excellence.
In a similarly momentous ceremony, Distinguished Senator Abdulaziz Abubakar Yari was installed as Baba Isale of Ikorodu Kingdom, marking a proud moment for the kingdom and the nation, celebrating a leader recognised for his strength, legacy, and far-reaching influence.
The installation ceremonies carried the weight of history and community pride. Sons and daughters of Ikorodu turned out in large numbers, celebrating leaders who have demonstrated dedication to humanity, accessibility to the people, and unwavering respect for culture and tradition.
A Gathering of Eminent Personalities
The event drew an extraordinary array of national and regional dignitaries, highlighting its significance. Present were:
Royal fathers
Governor of Zamfara State
Inspector General of Police, represented by AIG Frank Mba, former Police Spokesperson and Commissioner
Senator Gbenga Ashafa
Senator Adetokunbo Abiru
Babajimi Adegoke Benson (MHR)
Princess Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO, Nigerians in Diaspora Commission
Mrs. Jumoke Benson, representing the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu — Iya Oba of Lagos
Otunba Awomodu
Odofin Adewunmi Ogunsanya, Chairman MultiChoice (DSTV) Nigeria
Iyaloja General of Ikorodu
Prince Adedayo Ladega, Chairman Ikorodu Local Government
Mayor Ameen Olawale Apanishile, Chairman Ikorodu North LCDA
Omo’ba Hameed Olalekan Aroyewun (HOA), Chairman Igbogbo Bayeku LCDA
Hon. Motunrayo Gbadebo-Alogba, Chairman Imota LCDA
Hon. Benson, Chairman Imota LCDA
Many other traditional rulers, political office holders, royal chiefs, association leaders, and respected community members.
Contributions to Education and Community Development
During the event, Speaker Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas donated ₦50 million to support the Ikorodu Education Scholarship Scheme, while Governor of Zamfara State contributed ₦20 million to the same initiative. Senator Abdulaziz Yari also pledged support, reinforcing a collective commitment to education.
In addition, the Ikorodu OGA Festival Committee awarded scholarships to deserving students as part of the 2025 finale, ensuring the kingdom’s young talents are supported and celebrated.
Cultural Highlights and Book Launch
His Royal Majesty, Alayeluwa Oba Engr. AbdulKabir Adewale Shotobi, further enriched the day by launching his book titled “Ilufemiloye”, celebrating Ikorodu’s heritage and cultural depth. The festival showcased the unity, colour, and vibrancy of Ikorodu, drawing participation from numerous associations and community groups.
A Celebration of Heritage, Unity, and Progress
The 2025 Ikorodu OGA Festival Grand Finale will be remembered as a powerful convergence of tradition, national recognition, and community pride. Through the conferment of high-ranking chieftaincy titles, scholarship awards, and cultural showcases, Ikorodu affirmed its status as a kingdom that honours its leaders, uplifts its youth, and celebrates its heritage.
The festival not only strengthened the identity of Ikorodu but also reinforced the bonds of unity, culture, and progress that define the kingdom today.
Ikorodu stands tall — vibrant in culture, proud in heritage, and united in progress.
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