On the 23rd of May 2024, the Eminent Persons of Ikorodu Division (EPID) convened the annual Ikorodu Division General Assembly and Award Presentation ceremony, marking a significant event in the pursuit of community development and recognition of distinguished leaders in Ikorodu division.
With the theme, “Ikorodu Division: the Challenges of Emerging Cities and the Imperative of Strategic Synergy between Government, Corporate Bodies, and Residents for All-Round Development,” the event mirrored the pressing issues facing the evolving urban landscape and the necessity for collaborative efforts towards sustainable progress.
The ceremony was graced by esteemed personalities including HRM, Oba Kabiru Adewale Shotobi, Ayangbure of Ikorodu Kingdom, HRM Oba Semiudeen Orimadegun Kasali, the Adeboruwa of Igbogbo Kingdom, HRM, Oba Raji David Olukayode, the Eweye of Isiu, and HRM, Oba Mudashiru Bakare Agoro, the Ranodu of Imota.
Former commissioner for Agriculture, Chief Asipa Kaoli Olusanya, Rep. Babajimi Benson MHR representing Ikorodu federal Constituency, Mrs. Isikalu Busola, Iya-Oloja General of Ikorodu division, Special Adviser to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Social Media, Hon. Segun Dada, media aide to Senator Tokunbo Abiru, Mr Olukotun Enitan, Alhaja Oluwakemi Osho Iya-Oloja of Ikorodu central, among others also graced the auspicious occasion.
Engr. (Chief) R. O Shoderu, welcomed the special guests and attendees, expressed delight at hosting the distinguished leaders and residents, reaffirming the council’s commitment to the vision and mission of its founding fathers.
He emphasized the assembly’s focus on fostering development in Ikorodu Division by collaborating with all levels of government and addressing various challenges, including infrastructure, transportation, and sanitation.
Engr. Shoderu highlighted EPID’s advocacy for equitable resource allocation and the implementation of the IBILE system, aimed at ensuring fairness in political appointments, resource distribution, and infrastructure development across the state.
He announced plans to draft a communique urging corporate bodies to allocate a percentage of their income to community development, which would be presented to the state House of Assembly for consideration.
The keynote speaker, Prof. Abisogun Leigh, former Vice-Chancellor of Lagos State University, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to discuss the IBILE ideology.
Prof. Abisogun detailed the critical importance of fairness and equity in tackling the complex issues surrounding indigeneship, highlighting the state’s longstanding efforts to foster inclusivity and unity among its diverse population.
Speaking to the guests and attendees, Prof. Abisogun recalled early initiatives aimed at ensuring that all residents, regardless of their ethnic backgrounds, felt included and valued within the state’s social and economic framework.
He emphasized that these efforts were fundamental to maintaining peace and harmony in a multicultural society like Lagos.
“The significance of fairness and equity in addressing indigeneship cannot be overstated,” he remarked.
“From the onset, we have worked diligently to promote inclusivity and unity among our diverse population. Our aim has always been to ensure that every resident feels a sense of belonging and has equal opportunities to contribute to and benefit from the state’s growth.”
He pointed to specific policies and programs that have been implemented over the years to bridge gaps and build a more inclusive community.
These include initiatives aimed at improving access to education, healthcare, and employment opportunities for all residents, as well as fostering a culture of mutual respect and understanding among different ethnic groups.
In conclusion, Prof. Abisogun called for continued commitment to these principles, urging both government officials and citizens to uphold the values of fairness and equity in all dealings. He stressed that a united and inclusive society is essential for sustainable development and prosperity.
“We must continue to champion these values and ensure that our policies and actions reflect our commitment to fairness and equity. Only by working together can we build a stronger, more united, and prosperous state for all.” Abisogun asserted
Highpoint of the event was the presentation of awards to distinguished leaders and administrators who have contributed significantly to the development of Ikorodu Division.
Recipients of the Award of Excellence included: Senator Adetokunbo Mukhail Abiru representing the Lagos East Senatorial District, Rep. Babajimi Adegoke Benson MHR representing Ikorodu Federal Constituency; Justice Habeeb Adewale Abiru; Sir David O. A. Sunmoni; Dr. Fredrick Oladehinde, former Commissioner for Transportation; Prof. Olumuyiwa Odusanya.
The Personalities were recognized for their exceptional service and contributions to the development of Ikorodu and the broader Lagos State.
In addition to the honour, recognition Awards were bestowed upon several other influential figures, highlighting their significant impact on the community: Prof. Abisogun Leigh, keynote speaker of the ceremony; Hon. Adetokunbo Gbolahan Ogunleye (OGA), representing Ikorodu Constituency 1 at the Lagos State House of Assembly; Hon. Aro Moshood Abiodun (AMA), representing Ikorodu Constituency 2 at the Lagos State House of Assembly; Hon. Abisola Ruth Olusanya, Lagos State Commissioner for Agriculture; Dr. Nurudeen Yekinni Agbaje, Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Rural Development; and Prof. Adewale Banjo.
Former Ikorodu constituency 1 representative and Majority Leader of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon. SOB Agunbiade, and his fellow, who also represented Ikorodu constituency 2 at the Assembly, Hon. Nurudeen Saka Solaja were both honoured at the occasion.
The Awards were presented in acknowledgment of their commitment and contributions to various sectors, including education, agriculture, infrastructure, and community development.
The ceremony concluded with a grand celebration of community organizations and notable individuals for their remarkable achievements and contributions to the cultural and sporting landscape of Ikorodu.
Among the honorees were also the Oriwu Club of Ikorodu, Exclusive Club and The Golden Daves Club of Ikorodu, all recognized for their significant impact on community development and cohesion.
Prominent celebrities praised at the event included Azeezat Oshoala, a distinguished sports personality, and Qudus Oluwadamilare Fakoya, popularly known as Q Dot, who has made notable contributions to the cultural vibrancy of Ikorodu through his music.
In all, the Ikorodu Division General Assembly and Award Presentation served as a platform to the collaborative spirit and dedication of the Eminent Persons of Ikorodu Division in fostering development and honoring exemplary leadership within the community.
INN-HOUSE☆ 