Aishah Waliyullah
The Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, Oba (Dr.) Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, Okukenu IV, has called on the Ogun State Government to sustain ongoing road development projects across the state, expressing optimism that the current pace of infrastructural renewal will be maintained.
Speaking at a press conference heralding activities for his 20th coronation anniversary, the monarch acknowledged the challenges in road construction but lauded the government’s commitment to infrastructure development.
“No doubt there are challenges in road construction and it is difficult to finish everything at a go, but there is still hope,” Oba Gbadebo said.
“We remain optimistic that the government will maintain the momentum on these development initiatives.”
Reflecting on his two decades on the throne, Oba Gbadebo attributed his successful reign to divine grace and described the last 20 years as remarkable for Egbaland and Ogun State.
“The only secret to a successful two decades is God. Those above 30 will appreciate the tremendous development the state has witnessed—such as the airport and railway construction, and the fact that Ogun remains the only state with two federal universities: FUNAAB and the University of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Abeokuta,” he added.
Chairman of the Anniversary Organising Committee, Chief Oluyinka Kufile, announced that the weeklong celebration would run from Friday, November 14 to Wednesday, November 19, 2025.
According to Kufile, the festivities will begin with a Jumat service at the Abeokuta Central Mosque, Kobiti, followed by scholarship and bursary awards at the Adire Hall, Ake Palace, sponsored by the A.G. Leventis Foundation, Egba Indigents Global Association, and Sina Luwoye Foundation.
He disclosed that 150 university students would benefit from the educational support initiative.
Subsequent events will include chieftaincy installations, visits to the Daniel Akintonde School for the Physically Challenged and the Stella Obasanjo Orphanage Home, as well as a comprehensive medical outreach.
“The outreach will involve menopause sensitisation, general health screening, and free drug dispensation for over 1,000 people at the Ake Palace,” Kufile explained. “There will also be free eye screening and surgery for 50 patients at Centenary Hall, Ake.”
The celebration will climax with traditional homages, a special thanksgiving service at the Cathedral Church of St. Peter, Ake, and a South-West Junior Squash Tournament sponsored by the Royalty Club of Egbaland.
Chief Kufile praised the monarch’s dedication to service, noting that Oba Gbadebo’s humility and passion for sports had inspired his support for youth development through the squash competition.
“His Majesty has come this far through total commitment and open-mindedness. Kingship is not easy, but his love for sports, especially golf, has driven his decision to support the squash tournament,” he said.
Dignitaries at the press conference included the Vice Chairman of the Organising Committee, Chief (Engr.) Tokunbo Adebumi, and the Secretary, Aare Adebayo Shodade.
'
'Do you want to share a story with us? Do you want to advertise with us? Do you need publicity for a product, service, or event? Contact us on WhatsApp +2348183319097 Email: platformtimes@gmail.com
We are committed to impactful investigative journalism for human interest and social justice. Your donation will help us tell more stories. Kindly donate any amount HERE
