OLASUPO SET FOR INSTALLATION AS MOGAJI OF BADA COMPOUND

The Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty Oba Akinloye Owolabi Ige Olakulehin I, is set to install Hon. Ibrahim Olasupo as the new Mogaji of Bada Compound, located in Oke Offa Atipe area of Ibadan.

The installation ceremony is scheduled to hold on Monday 12, and is expected to attract family members, community leaders, traditional chiefs, and well-wishers from across the city.

The title of Mogaji, which translates to “family head,” is a prestigious and foundational position in Ibadan’s unique traditional chieftaincy hierarchy. Holders of the title serve as representatives of their family compounds and are eligible for future elevation within the traditional system, potentially ascending to the Olubadan throne through the established lines of succession.

Olasupo’s nomination followed due consultations and approval by all Bada extended, in line with Ibadan’s long-standing customs and traditions. His appointment has been received with enthusiasm by members of the Bada family and associates, who described him as a responsible and forward-thinking individual.

Monday’s installation will include traditional rites and formal recognition by the Olubadan-in-Council at the palace of the Olubadan.

The Bada Compound, one of the historic family compounds in Ibadan, plays a significant role in the cultural and communal life of the Oke Offa Atipe area.

Appreciation Message from Hon. Gbenga Ayinde Adewusi 'Arole'

I extend my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who joined me in celebrating my birthday on May 7 at Gbemade Royal Hotel and Suites. Your presence made the day truly memorable and deeply special.

I sincerely appreciate the distinguished presence of:

His Excellency Amb. Taofeek Oladejo Arapaja (PDP DNC South), Asiwaju Dr. Jubril Dotun Sanusi (Ajia Olubadan of Ibadanland), Asiwaju Engr. Akeem Olatunji (Executive Chairman, Oluyole Local Government), Hon. Modiu Akande Alabamusa and Hon. Sola Owolabi (Members, Oyo State House of Assembly), Oba Dr. James Odeniran (Alakinyele of Akinyele), Chief Akinoso, Mogaji Ademola Olasomi, Mogaji Abass Oloko, Chief Abonde (Baale Mokola), Chief Macadof, Chief Mrs. Saratul Aduke (Iyaloja of Oyo State), Hon. Sola Fakorede, Hon. SAO, Iya Mopo, Hon. Kazeem Gaosu,  Babaloja Eleso ti Ile Ibadan, Iyalaje Ibadan North East Local Government, Prestigious Lords of Ibadan House of Lords, Members of the People's Democratic Party, Arapaja Dynasty, Arole Group

… and countless other friends, supporters, and well-wishers whose names this space cannot contain.

Thank you all for your love, prayers, and kind gestures. May we continue to share joyful moments together in unity, peace, and progress.

With gratitude,

Hon. Gbenga Ayinde Adewusi 'Arole'

Hon. Arc. O. Dele Julius Congratulates Chief Olumuyiwa Akanbi Makinde on Chieftaincy Elevation to Aare Onibon

Prominent political figure and community leader, Hon. Arc. O. Dele Julius, has extended heartfelt congratulations to Chief Olumuyiwa Akanbi Makinde on his elevation from Bada Olubadan to Aare Onibon of Ibadanland.

The elevation was formally ratified by His Imperial Majesty, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin I, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, as part of the ongoing traditional promotion exercise within the revered Ibadan chieftaincy line.

Hon. Julius, in his congratulatory message, described Chief Makinde as a man of great vision, humility, and impact. “Chief Olumuyiwa Makinde has distinguished himself in both private and public service. His promotion to the rank of Aare Onibon is a true reflection of his selfless contributions to Ibadanland and his admirable leadership qualities,” he remarked.

He further praised the Olubadan for preserving the time-honoured customs of the land and ensuring the elevation of worthy sons of Ibadan who embody the values of progress, tradition, and community service.

Hon. Julius expressed confidence that Chief Makinde will use the new title as a platform to do even more for the people of Ibadan and continue to serve as a bridge between tradition and modern development.

Ibadan North East Legislative Council Congratulates Chief Olumuyiwa Akanbi Makinde on Elevation to Aare Onibon

The Ibadan North East Legislative Council has congratulated Chief Olumuyiwa Akanbi Makinde on his recent promotion from Bada Olubadan to the prestigious chieftaincy title of Aare Onibon of Ibadanland.

The promotion was officially conferred by His Imperial Majesty, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin I, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, as part of the traditional elevation process within the Ibadan royal chieftaincy line.

Speaking on behalf of the Council, Hon. Abdulmajeed Adekola Igbalajobi, Leader of the House, described the elevation as a well-deserved honour for a man of distinction. “Chief Olumuyiwa Makinde is a shining example of leadership, humility, and dedication to the service of Ibadanland. His promotion to Aare Onibon reflects not only his personal accomplishments but also his unwavering commitment to the growth and progress of our community,” Hon. Igbalajobi stated.

The Council further applauded the Olubadan for upholding the sacred traditions of Ibadanland through a transparent and honourable chieftaincy system, which continues to celebrate excellence and service.

The Council expressed confidence that Chief Makinde will continue to uphold the dignity of the title and contribute significantly to the development of Ibadan and its cultural heritage.

Hon. Gbenga 'Arole' Adewusi Felicitates with Chief Olumuyiwa Akanbi Makinde on Elevation to Aare Onibon

Hon. Gbenga Ayinde Adewusi, fondly known as 'Arole', has congratulated Chief Olumuyiwa Akanbi Makinde on his recent elevation from Bada Olubadan to the prestigious title of Aare Onibon of Ibadanland.

The honour was conferred by His Imperial Majesty, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin I, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, as part of the traditional chieftaincy promotions within the Ibadan royal system.

In his congratulatory message, Hon. Adewusi described Chief Makinde as a noble son of Ibadan whose commitment to the progress of the city and its cultural heritage has been commendable. “The elevation to Aare Onibon is a recognition of years of dedication, service, and community impact. Chief Makinde has always stood out as a man of honour and vision,” he said.

He further emphasized that such elevations inspire younger generations to value tradition, integrity, and service to humanity.

The Ibadan chieftaincy system, deeply rooted in history and culture, continues to recognize outstanding individuals who contribute meaningfully to the advancement of the land and its people.

Hon. Gbenga 'Arole' Adewusi Congratulates Chief Jubril Dotun Sanusi on Promotion to Ajia Olubadan

Hon. Gbenga Ayinde Adewusi, popularly known as 'Arole', has extended warm congratulations to Chief Jubril Dotun Sanusi on his recent elevation from Jagun Olubadan to Ajia Olubadan of Ibadanland.

The promotion, conferred by His Imperial Majesty, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin I, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, marks a significant step in Chief Sanusi’s traditional leadership journey within the prestigious Olubadan chieftaincy line.

Hon. Adewusi praised the newly elevated Chief for his dedication to community service, philanthropy, and leadership. “Chief Sanusi's promotion is a testament to his unwavering contributions to the growth and development of Ibadanland,” Arole stated. “His selfless service and impactful initiatives have not gone unnoticed, and this honour is richly deserved.”

He added that the elevation of capable and visionary leaders like Chief Sanusi within the Olubadan royal line is a positive sign for the future of Ibadan’s traditional institution and cultural heritage.

The Olubadan chieftaincy system remains one of the most respected traditional hierarchies in Yorubaland, known for its orderly and merit-based progression through the ranks.

Makinde's Educational Initiative Delivers as Oyo State Performs Exceptionally in 2024 SSCE

Oyo State has emerged as a top performer in the 2024 Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE) Internal, as per the latest rankings from the National Examination Council (NECO). Under the leadership of Governor Seyi Makinde, the state government has demonstrated a strong commitment to education, yielding impressive results. Heartfelt congratulations to the government and people of Oyo State on this notable achievement.

Oyo State proudly secured the third position nationwide, a commendable feat that reflects the tremendous progress being made in the state’s education sector.

This success did not happen by chance. It is the result of strategic investment in education infrastructure, teacher recruitment and training, curriculum development, and sustained policy implementation. We celebrate the Ministry of Education, the Teaching Service Commission (TESCOM), and all education agencies and boards in Oyo State for their consistent dedication and coordination.

By allocating over 20% of its budget to education, Oyo State surpasses the UNESCO-recommended standard, demonstrating a strong commitment to improving education quality. This investment supports initiatives that enhance teaching and learning, aligning with key global frameworks, including the African Union's Agenda 2063 and the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 4, 4.5, and 4.7.

The Governor Seyi Makinde's administration has made significant efforts to improve the education sector in Oyo State, including teacher recruitment and development.Training and development programs for teachers has also boost their morale and motivation, leading to improved job satisfaction and performance.

Makinde's administration's focus on teacher training and development has led to more effective teaching methods and improved student outcomes. The government's efforts to improve education infrastructure and provide resources attract and retain qualified teachers, reducing teacher shortages and improving overall education quality.

The combination of improved teacher quality, motivation, and resources has led to better student performance, as reflected in the 2024 SSCE ranking.

The government's commitment to education may instill confidence in teachers, students, and parents, creating a more supportive and effective learning environment. These potential effects suggest that Governor Makinde's administration's efforts on teacher recruitment and development have a positive impact on the education sector in Oyo State.

Shoutout to Our Amazing Teachers, your dedication, passion, and hard work in the classroom are truly inspiring. You're the real MVPs! To our high-achieving students, your perseverance and self-belief have paid off, and we're beyond proud! You're not only the pride of our state, but also the future leaders of Nigeria.

We also recognize the critical roles played by parents, school administrators, and supportive communities in creating enabling environments for learning and growth.

Likewise, private educators in Oyo State have made significant contributions to the state's educational advancements. Their collaborative efforts and dedication to excellence deserve recognition and appreciation. By working together with the government, they've helped drive progress and achieve remarkable results in education.

This milestone is a signal to the entire nation that quality education is achievable when there is vision, leadership, and unity of purpose. Oyo State is not just rising, it is setting the pace.

Let us not rest on our oars. This is a call to redouble our efforts, deepen reforms, and aim even higher. Together, we can secure the top spot and transform Oyo State into a national model for educational excellence.

Adedoja Afees Ekolo, member GSM advocates writes from Ibadan.

“Tell Seyi He Is Not From This Planet”: My Unexpected Encounter With a Pensioner - Hon. Deji Ola

What was meant to be a brief errand turned into one of the most memorable conversations of my week.

It was a quiet Sunday evening. I had stopped by a popular filling station along Old Ife Road to buy fuel and make a quick payment using my ATM card. To my dismay, the transaction failed — not once, but three times — and each time, my account was debited. As frustrating as it was, I managed to keep my cool. My years as a banker had taught me how to deal with agitated customers; now I was simply living the other side of that experience.

The next morning, on my way to the office, I stopped at the bank to log a dispense error complaint and request a reversal. That was when I discovered the real issue: my ATM card was damaged. I decided to handle both complaints and card replacement in one visit.

As I waited at the customer service desk, an elderly man walked in. Though clearly aged, he moved with remarkable energy. He had come to check his account balance. I gestured to the staff to please attend to him before continuing with my own request.

The moment the teller confirmed his balance, the man burst into spontaneous praise and prayers — not for the bank or its staff, but for Governor Seyi Makinde. “God bless Governor Seyi Makinde,” he proclaimed loudly, dancing in joy. His energy was contagious, his gratitude unmistakable.

As a trained banker, I was used to keeping a low profile, especially inside banking halls. But curiosity got the better of me. A staff member, who knew where I worked, whispered to the old man that I was “omo Seyi” — someone who works closely with the governor. That single revelation changed everything.

The old man turned to me, his eyes lighting up. What followed was an impromptu testimony session. He told me that he and his family never end a prayer session without mentioning Governor Makinde. He spoke of the timely payment of his pension, his daughter and son-in-law’s salaries, and how their lives had become stable because of the governor’s policies. He spoke like someone who had been given a new lease on life.

He then dived into a passionate account of the governor’s achievements: from massive infrastructure projects to employment and empowerment programs. His voice trembled not out of weakness, but out of conviction. “Nobody who truly loves this state,” he said, “would want us to go backward. We must follow through on his succession plan.”

What struck me most was his concern for the future. “I worry,” he said quietly. “What happens when his time is up? Who will continue this legacy? We can’t afford to return to the days of unpaid salaries and neglect.”

I assured him that Governor Makinde’s vision was not just for now. I spoke to him about Omituntun 3.0 — the roadmap for sustainable development in Oyo State beyond 2027. It seemed to calm him a bit, but he wasn’t done.

As I made to leave, he held my hand firmly and said something that still rings in my ears:

“Tell your principal — he is not from this planet. He must give us someone who will uphold his standards.”

And just like that, a random stop at the bank became a heartfelt reminder of leadership’s impact — not in policies alone, but in the lives of people who once felt forgotten.

Deji Ola is my name, i am a proud product of good governance.

Glorious @52: OTOPE Shines as Ona Ara Stakeholders Defeat Youth Stakeholders in Thrilling Novelty Match (PHOTOS)

...Ilaji FCAcademy won 1st GLORIOUS Unity Cup 

As part of the events marking the 52nd birthday celebration of the Executive Chairman of Ona Ara Local Government, Dr. Temitope Kolapo GLORIOUS, a novelty football match was held between the Ona Ara Stakeholders and the Youth Stakeholders. The high-spirited encounter ended 3-1 in favor of the Stakeholders' team, tagged GLORIOUS and Friends.

The highlight of the match was the brilliant performance of Dr. Ezekiel Temitope Oladimeji (popularly known as OTOPE), who netted two sensational goals to put the Stakeholders in the lead. The celebrant himself, Dr. Temitope Kolapo GLORIOUS, capped the victory with a third goal, sealing a memorable win. The Youth Stakeholders managed to pull one back, ending the match 3-1.

In a statement issued on behalf of the planning committee, Mr. Rahmon Alawode, the novelty match served as a symbolic gesture of unity, collaboration, and sportsmanship within the Ona Ara political and youth community. The event came shortly after the grand finale of the GLORIOUS Unity Cup, where Ilaji Football Academy triumphed over FEMBEM Football Academy with a resounding 3-0 victory.

The double-header sporting events underscore Dr. GLORIOUS's continued commitment to youth engagement, community bonding, and promoting sports development at the grassroots level.

As the Local Government prepares to celebrate Dr. Temitope Kolapo GLORIOUS’s 52nd birthday tomorrow, the victories both on and off the pitch reflect the strength of leadership and the spirit of progress in Ona Ara.

Dignitaries at the event are: Acting HLGA of Ona Ara Local Government, Sanitarian Rashidat Popoola, Hon. Gbenga Adewusi Arole, Hon. Kazeem Gbadamosi, Ward Councillors, Supervisory Councillor adm Special Assistants.

Signed:

Alawode Rahmon Akintunde 

Press Secretary to the Executive Chairman

Ona Ara Local Government

Happy Birthday to a rare gem, my father, leader, and mentor — Ifeoluwa Ayodele Ogunlola Fetes Hon. Gbenga Ayinde Adewusi 'Arole'

Happy Birthday to a rare gem, my father, leader, and mentor — Hon. Olugbenga Ayinde Adewusi, fondly known as Arole.

Your life is a beacon of inspiration, a testament to resilience, wisdom, and unwavering integrity. As a father, you’ve nurtured with love; as a leader, you’ve guided with vision; and as a mentor, you’ve poured into lives with selfless dedication — mine especially.

Today, I celebrate not just your birth, but the impact you continue to make in the lives of many. May this new chapter bring you greater strength, divine favor, and fulfillment in all you do.

Thank you for being an example worth following.

With deepest respect and gratitude,

Ifeoluwa Ayodele Ogunlola

Personal Assistant

Hon. Abiodun Babalola Fulfills Promise, Donates Megaphone to Omituntun Movement

In fulfillment of a promise made to the Omituntun Movement, Hon. Abiodun Babalola has donated a brand-new megaphone to support the group's grassroots mobilization efforts. The presentation was made on his behalf by his Personal Assistant, Hon. Razak Arshavin.

The Coordinator of the Omituntun Movement, Hon. Busayo, received the megaphone with appreciation, describing the donation as a timely and strategic boost to the movement's community engagement activities. She expressed gratitude to Hon. Babalola for his continued support and commitment to the cause.

Speaking at the brief handover ceremony, Hon. Arshavin conveyed Hon. Babalola’s message of solidarity with the movement, emphasizing that the megaphone symbolizes the amplification of the people’s voices and the strengthening of their collective resolve.

Members of the Omituntun Movement applauded the gesture, noting that the equipment would be instrumental in spreading their message across local communities and energizing supporters ahead of future political activities.

This donation is one of several efforts by Hon. Babalola aimed at empowering grassroots organizations and fostering active civic participation.

In fulfillment of a promise made to the Omituntun Movement, Hon. Abiodun Babalola has donated a brand-new megaphone to support the group's grassroots mobilization efforts. The presentation was made on his behalf by his Personal Assistant, Hon. Razak Arshavin.

The Coordinator of the Omituntun Movement, Hon. Busayo, received the megaphone with appreciation, describing the donation as a timely and strategic boost to the movement's community engagement activities. She expressed gratitude to Hon. Babalola for his continued support and commitment to the cause.

Speaking at the brief handover ceremony, Hon. Arshavin conveyed Hon. Babalola’s message of solidarity with the movement, emphasizing that the megaphone symbolizes the amplification of the people’s voices and the strengthening of their collective resolve.

Members of the Omituntun Movement applauded the gesture, noting that the equipment would be instrumental in spreading their message across local communities and energizing supporters ahead of future political activities.

This donation is one of several efforts by Hon. Babalola aimed at empowering grassroots organizations and fostering active civic participation.

BREAKING: Accident Victims Rescued Along Ojoo–Iwo Road Expressway in Ibadan

Ibadan, Nigeria – An incident is currently unfolding at the Ajao Express axis along the Ojoo–Iwo Road Expressway in Ibadan. A group of individuals, believed to be victims of a road mishap, have been found and are currently receiving attention.

According to their account, the victims were returning from a farm near Oyo town, around the Moniya area in Ibadan, and were headed toward Iwo Road when the incident occurred. Despite efforts made by bystanders and authorities, all attempts to contact their families have so far been unsuccessful.

Members of the public who may recognize the victims or have relevant information are urged to visit Irepodun Police Station where the individuals are currently being assisted. Alternatively, they can call 09019098372 for immediate contact.

Please help share this message to assist in reuniting the victims with their loved ones.

Hon. Abiola Akinloye Renovates Modern Borehole in Abibemori Compound, Agugu Ibadan

Hon. Abiola Akinloye Renovates Modern Borehole in Abibemori Compound, Agugu Ibadan

— Community Applauds Swift Action and Philanthropic Gesture

Abibemori Compound in Agugu, Ibadan, witnessed a heartwarming development today, May 5, 2025, as Hon. Abiola Akinloye commissioned the newly renovated modern borehole facility for residents of the area. The event, held behind the Islamic Primary School, marked a remarkable act of service and swift response to a community need.

According to Mr. Dauda Ajani, Chairman of the People's Democratic Party (PDP) Ward 9, Hon. Akinloye was informed of the broken borehole last Thursday and promptly visited the site the following day. Renovation works commenced immediately and were impressively completed within three days—a gesture Mr. Ajani described as “unwavering and worthy of commendation.”

Hon. Abdulmajeed Adekola Igbalajobi, Leader of the House, Ibadan North East Legislative Council, also praised Hon. Akinloye for his impactful intervention and urged the community to maintain the facility properly. His sentiments were echoed by Hon. Sola Owolabi, Member of the Oyo State House of Assembly (Ibadan North East 2), who lauded the renovation and emphasized judicious usage of the water project.

Mogaji Aliu Abibemori, head of the Abibemori family compound, expressed heartfelt appreciation to Hon. Akinloye for financing the renovation. He pledged both his family’s commitment to maintaining the borehole and their continuous support for the PDP.

The event also drew remarks from Alhaji Isiaka Fatokun Abuye, PDP Chairman of Ibadan North East Local Government, who extolled Hon. Akinloye for making the project a reality. He also thanked the residents for their steadfast support of His Excellency, Governor Seyi Makinde, and the PDP at large.

Dignitaries present at the event included:

Alhaji Isiaka Fatokun Abuye

Alhaja Nike Abeje

Hon. Gbenga Ayinde Adewusi ‘Arole’

Hon. Abdulmajeed Adekola Igbalajobi

Mogaji Aliu Abibemori

Chief Olalere Okunola, Baale of Abibemori

Chief Akinbola Akeem Atiku, Youth Leader, Abibemori

Mr. Dauda Ajani, PDP Ward 9 Chairman

Hon. Najeemdeen Adeniran, Ward 9 Councillor

Hon. Sola Owolabi, OYHA Member, Ibadan North East 2

Hon. Elias Adeojo (Chairman, Oyo State Water Corporation)

All LG Party Executives, Ward 9 Executives and Members

All Councilors and Supervisory Councilors, Ibadan North East LG

Special Assistants of the Local Government

The ceremony not only celebrated infrastructure improvement but also reflected the value of responsive governance and community-driven development.

Akeem Olatunji Takes Immunization Campaign To Schools, Homes In Oluyole

Akeem Olatunji Takes Immunization Campaign To Schools, Homes In Oluyole 

As part of concerted effort to eradicate polio and safeguard children’s health, the executive chairman of Oluyole Local Government, Asiwaju Akeem Olatunji, today led immunization campaign targeting all children under the age of five in the Council area. 

The campaign began with visits to key primary healthcare facilities, private residence and educational institutions within the local government.

The campaign was flagged off at the Adaramagbo Primary Health Care Center, where Chairman Olatunji emphasized the importance of grassroots outreach in achieving total immunization coverage. 

From there, the team visited Popson Nursery and Primary School and later extended their activities to the bustling Olomi Market.

During his address at the school, Olatunji urged teachers and caregivers to prioritize cleanliness and hygienic environment. 

“Neatness leads to godliness. We have absolutely nothing to gain from being nonchalant and carefree with our environment and physical well-being than exposing ourselves to health risks," Olatunji said. 

Speaking further, he highlighted that a clean environment engenders better health outcomes and instills a sense of responsibility in the community especially in rural areas.

The campaign also featured a door-to-door sensitization effort, with the Chairman and health officials visiting homes to engage directly with parents and guardians. 

He appealed to parents and guardians to support the health teams and ensure their children receive the polio vaccine saying, “Your cooperation is vital in our fight against polio."

Present at the immunization campaign were Dr. Akanni Olayinka, Director of Health for Oluyole LG; Hon. Bolanle Mariam Abass , Supervisor for Health; and Mrs. Ibagbe Olabisi , Special Assistant on Health, alongside other dedicated health officers.

Arole Obasanjo Celebrates Chief Imam of Ibadan, Chief Nureni Iba Oluyole, and Mogaji Wale Ladoja on Their Birthdays

Hon. Gbenga Ayinde Adewusi, popularly known as Arole Obasanjo, has extended heartfelt congratulations to three esteemed figures in Ibadanland—Sheikh Abdul-Ganiyy Abubakr Agbotomokekere, the Chief Imam of Ibadanland; Alhaji Nureni Adebayo Akanbi, also known as Iba Oluyole; and Mogaji Wale Ladoja of Ile Akinsola—on the occasion of their birthday anniversaries.

Sheikh Agbotomokekere, the Chief Imam of Ibadanland and Grand Imam of Oyo State, recently marked his 90th birthday. His Eminence has been lauded for his unwavering commitment to faith, peace, and the spiritual growth of the Muslim community in Nigeria. Arole praised the nonagenarian as “a custodian of Islamic values and the teacher of teachers,” highlighting his role in promoting unity and religious tolerance across Yorubaland, Edo, and Delta states.

Alhaji Nureni Adebayo Akanbi, widely recognized as Iba Oluyole, is a respected political leader and elder statesman in Ibadanland. His birthday was marked with tributes highlighting his selflessness, leadership, and dedication to justice. Arole, praised Iba Oluyole’s wisdom and unwavering commitment to justice, noting that his political thought is about lifting others and standing firm when it matters most.

Mogaji Wale Ladoja, the head of the Ile Akinsola family, also celebrated his birthday recently. As a prominent traditional leader, Mogaji Ladoja has been instrumental in upholding the cultural heritage and values of Ibadanland. Arole Obasanjo acknowledged his contributions to the community, emphasizing his role in fostering unity and development within his lineage and the broader Ibadan society.

The celebrations of these milestones have brought together political figures, traditional leaders, and community members, reflecting the deep respect and admiration held for Sheikh Agbotomokekere, Iba Oluyole, and Mogaji Wale Ladoja.