Ikorodu, Lagos – August 2, 2025, As the ancient kingdom of Ikorodu sets the stage for the grand celebration of the 10th Coronation Anniversary of its paramount ruler, His Royal Majesty, Oba Engr. Dr. Kabiru Adewale Shotobi, GCIO, the Ayangburen of Ikorodu Kingdom, tributes are pouring in from across the nation.
One of the most heartfelt came from Aarebirin Hon. Dr. Princess Folashade Olabanji-Oba, a respected political leader and prominent daughter of the soil.
Princess Olabanji-Oba, the immediate past Vice Chairman of Ikorodu Local Government, joined other dignitaries in praising the monarch’s exemplary leadership over the past decade.
She described Oba Shotobi as “a leader with a difference — unique in his style, deliberate in his vision, and unwavering in his commitment to peace and prosperity for the people of Ikorodu.”
Reflecting on the monarch’s reign, she emphasised that his influence extends far beyond ceremonial duties, noting his instrumental role in promoting unity among the people, fostering inter-community harmony, and serving as a bridge between traditional leadership and modern governance.
“Kabiyesi has masterfully blended tradition with progress. His reign has been defined by peace, stability, and development. He has been a rallying point for leaders at all levels to work together for the betterment of Ikorodu,” she said.
Princess Olabanji-Oba credited the Ayangburen with creating an enabling environment that has attracted significant developmental projects to the division.
She pointed to his deliberate engagement with government officials, policymakers, and stakeholders, which has helped draw infrastructure, social programmes, and security initiatives to Ikorodu.
“His Majesty’s collaborative spirit encourages administrators and leaders in governance to play their roles effectively. This has yielded visible transformation in our roads, healthcare, education, and general well-being of the people,” she noted.
The monarch’s tenure, she observed, has also been marked by cultural preservation and promotion, which has helped strengthen Ikorodu’s identity while enhancing its recognition across Lagos State and Nigeria at large.
Beyond her local service, Princess Olabanji-Oba continues to play a national role in governance as the National Chairman of the Association of Local Government Vice Chairmen of Nigeria and the Global Director General of the Asiwaju Distinguished Ambassadors Movement (ADAM).
These positions, she explained, have provided her with a broader platform to appreciate the Ayangburen’s kind of leadership — one she believes is a model for other traditional rulers in the country.
In her closing remarks, she offered heartfelt prayers for the monarch’s continued success and well-being:
“May the Almighty continue to bless Kabiyesi with good health, greater wisdom, and renewed strength. May his reign continue to bring light, hope, and opportunities to the people of Ikorodu and beyond.”
The 10th Coronation Anniversary celebrations of Oba Kabiru Adewale Shotobi will run from August 2nd to 10th, 2025, featuring a week-long calendar of cultural processions, public lectures, charity donations, chieftaincy title conferments, sports competitions, and thanksgiving services.
INN-HOUSE☆ 