OTTA, IKOSI-EJINRIN LCDA, LAGOS STATE – The Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, has commended the Olota of Otta Kingdom, His Royal Majesty, Oba Elias Omoloro Adedapo Ijelu, for providing purposeful leadership and fostering peace, unity and development across the kingdom as the revered monarch marked his fifth coronation anniversary.
The Governor’s message was delivered on Sunday, May 31, 2026, by Dr. Nurudeen Yekinni Agbaje, Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Rural Development, during the grand celebration held at the Olota Palace in Otta Kingdom, Ikosi-Ejinrin Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Lagos State.
Addressing traditional rulers, community leaders, dignitaries, sons and daughters of the ancient Awori kingdom, as well as guests from across the Lagos-Ogun axis, Dr. Agbaje conveyed Governor Sanwo-Olu’s warm felicitations to the monarch and the people of Otta Kingdom, describing the anniversary as a significant milestone that reflects five years of stable leadership, cultural preservation and community advancement.
According to the Governor, the occasion transcends the celebration of years on the throne and represents the enduring contributions of traditional institutions to governance, social harmony and grassroots development.
He noted that traditional rulers across the Awori settlements spanning the Lagos-Ogun corridor continue to play strategic roles in maintaining peace, preserving cultural heritage and strengthening community cohesion within one of the region’s most vibrant socio-economic zones.
Reflecting on Oba Ijelu’s ascension to the throne five years ago, Governor Sanwo-Olu stated that the monarch had successfully discharged the sacred responsibility of safeguarding the traditions of his people while providing leadership suited to the realities of a rapidly evolving society.
“Since ascending the throne of his forefathers, Kabiyesi has demonstrated wisdom, accessibility, humility and an unwavering commitment to peace, unity and progress. His reign has strengthened the bridge between tradition and contemporary governance,” the Governor stated.
The Governor further acknowledged the Olota’s efforts in promoting dialogue, youth engagement and communal harmony at a time when communities are increasingly shaped by migration, urbanization and economic integration.
He emphasized that communities such as Otta Kingdom, located within the broader Lagos East development corridor and connected to the expanding rural-urban interface of Ikosi-Ejinrin LCDA, require leadership that extends beyond ceremonial functions.
According to him, effective traditional leadership must actively support development initiatives, mediate diverse interests, and inspire collective responsibility among residents.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to collaborative governance, Governor Sanwo-Olu reiterated that the Lagos State Government regards traditional institutions as indispensable partners in achieving sustainable development across the state.
He highlighted ongoing efforts under the THEMES+ Development Agenda, noting that the administration remains focused on expanding infrastructure, improving healthcare delivery, enhancing educational opportunities, strengthening food systems and creating wider economic prospects for residents across both urban and rural communities.
“Our vision is simple but firm: no community within the Lagos space, whether urban, peri-urban or riverine, should be left behind in the journey towards inclusive prosperity,” the Governor declared.
He added that government investments in connectivity, mobility and local enterprise development are specifically designed to unlock opportunities across adjoining growth corridors and improve the quality of life for residents.
Governor Sanwo-Olu also commended the people of Otta Kingdom for their commitment to peace, unity and support for their traditional institution, stressing that meaningful development can only thrive in an atmosphere of trust, cooperation and mutual respect.
He described the enduring relationship between the monarch and his subjects as evidence of the collective maturity and shared vision that continue to drive progress within the kingdom.
Speaking directly to young people, the Governor urged them to embrace values such as integrity, discipline, service and sacrifice, noting that the future strength of any society depends on the character and commitment of its next generation.
He emphasized that traditional institutions remain vital platforms for transmitting these enduring values across generations and nurturing responsible leadership among youth.
The fifth coronation anniversary celebration attracted several traditional rulers, including HRM Oba Semiudeen Orimadegun Kasali, the Adeboruwa of Igbogbo Kingdom; HRM Oba Abdulganiyu Asumo Aderibigbe, the Alayandelu of Odo-Ayandelu; HRM Oba Adeoriyomi Oyebo, the Obateru of Egbin Kingdom; HRM Oba Kabir Adewale Shotobi, the Ayangburen of Ikorodu Kingdom; and HRM Oba Ajibade Mudashiru Agoro, the Ranodu of Imota Kingdom, among others.
Also in attendance were political leaders, including Chief Asipa Kaoli Olusanya; government officials from the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development; community stakeholders; and residents, all of whom gathered to honour Oba Elias Omoloro Adedapo Ijelu for his five years of service, leadership, and contributions to the growth and stability of Otta Kingdom.
INN-HOUSE☆ 