The 2024 Ibadan Cultural Festival Planning Committee received a boost today during their courtesy visit to the Jagun Olubadan of Ibadanland and Chairman CEO Ilaji Hotels and Resorts, Engineer Sir Dotun Sanusi at his Ilaji Hotels and Resorts, Akanran, Ibadan. During his speech, Balogun Gaphar Babatunde Ojetola who is the Chairman, 2024 Ibadan Cultural Festival Planning Committee eulogised the Jagun Olubadan for his dedication and sincere commitment for the progress and development of Ibadanland through his involvement in peace making initiatives particularly by instituting a compound Mogaji Peace and Security Mechanism aimed at maintaining peace and security in Ibadanland. His commitment at promoting skill acquisition and capacity building of the informal groups which has taken thousands of people out of poverty is another laudable achievements of Chief Dotun Sanusi. Balogun Ojetola went further to appreciate the Jagun Olubadan for promoting sports in and beyond Nigeria. Balogun Ojetola recounts of many remarkable interventions made by Chief Dotun Sanusi in support of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes CCII programs and Ibadanland in general. In conclusion, Balogun Gaphar Babatunde Ojetola delivered the decision of Chief Ajeniyi Ajewole led CCII Executive Council to nominate Engineer Chief Dotun Sanusi as the Chairman, Grand Finale of this year Ibadan Cultural Festival celebration coming up on 20th April, 2024.
In his response, the Jagun Olubadan of Ibadanland praised Chief Ajeniyi Ajewole led Executive Council for considering him suitable to Chair this year Ibadan Cultural Festival Grand Finale, a honour so appreciated. Chief Dotun Sanusi pledge his total support towards this year Ibadan Cultural Festival activities. He praised the visiting committee members for their remarkable services to their birth City. You will recal that Chief Ajeniyi Ajewole had earlier led the members of the Ibadan Cultural Festival Planning Committee to His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Oyo State, Engineer Oluwaseyi Abiodun Makinde FNSE DSC GSSRS to secure approval for the proposed dates for this year’s Cultural Festival. It has been approved by the governor that this year’s program will commence on Sunday 14th April for a week long packed activities with the Grand Finale on Saturday 20th April, 2024. The visiting team includes the committee Vice Chairman, Dr. Mrs Ayo Alaga, the Secretary of the committee, Engr. Musa Akere, a member of the CCII Board of Trustees, Chief Mrs Idowu Olaide Lawal and a host of other Sub-committee members.
Members of the Iyalode Chieftaincy Title line have declared their support for the 2024 Ibadan Cultural Festival Planning Committee. This declaration was made when members of the committee led by its Chairman, Balogun Gaphar Ojetola paid a courtesy visit to the Council of Iyalode of Ibadanland.
The Otun Iyalode of Ibadanland, Chief Mrs.. Amdalat Adekunle who spoke on behalf of others assured that members of the Iyalode line would support the 2024 Ibadan Cultural Festival Planning Committee individually and as a group.
” We want to give our blessings to this Committee. Be assured that we are behind you. As mothers of Ibadanland, we pray you make a huge success of this assignment. This year Ibadan Week will be a colourful and memorable occasion .” Earlier, the Chairman of the Committee, Balogun Gaphar Ojetola eulogised members of the Iyalode line for the collaborative role they are playing in ensuring peace reign supreme in Ibadanland. According to him, “members of the CCII are very appreciative of your motherly roles in ensuring growth and stability in Ibadanland. We have come to seek your blessing for us to succeed”.
Chairman of Agidigbo FM, Dr Oriyomi Hamzat has declared that his station will partner with the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes, CCII in promoting all the activities of the 2024 Ibadan Week.
This disclosure was made when he received members of the Planning Committee of 2024 Ibadan Cultural Festival led by the Chairman, Balogun Gaphar Babatunde Ojetola on Thursday.
In his early remarks, the Chairman of the Cultural Festival Planning Committee, Balogun Ojetola applauded Dr Oriyomi Hamzat for the developmental works he has been doing through Agidigbo FM, in his words “Agidigbo FM is more than a radio station, it is more of a government institution, where people believe that justice will be served”.
The Chairman further appreciated the station for receiving the visiting team, most especially with the physical presence of the Chairman of the station.
The Chairman outlined activities of the week which will span through seven (7) days in April, 2024 to include Prayers in Churches and Mosques, Orekelewa Brain and Beauty Contest, Educational Contests, Medical Outreach, Shop for free, Business Luncheon, Sports competition, Youth Conference and engagement with the Grand Finale holding at Liberty Stadium where the Governor of the State, His Excellency Oluseyi Abiodun Makinde and His Imperial Majesty, Oba Dr. Mohood Olalekan Balogun will be Chief Hosts to welcome other Excellencies and Royal Majesties from other States and towns to the event.
Furthermore, Balogun Ojetola announced the intention of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes through the Ibadan Cultural Festival to honor both Agidigbo FM and Dr. Oriyomi Hamzat with Awards of Excellence xcellence for their contributions to humanity.
In his response, Dr Oriyomi Hamzat promised that both himself and his brand (Agidigbo FM) will partake fully in the cultural festival, and promised to do everything within his power to see to the success of the festival.
Dr Oriyomi Hamzat immediately declared the setting up of Agidigbo FM sub-committee of Ibadan Cultural Festival week to work with the Central Committee of Ibadan Cultural Festival for the full involvement of Agidigbo FM, and he announced Aare Olabode Anisoloja as the chairman of the committee, to be supported by Miss Adenike Ishola and other three members of the radio station.
The 2024 Ibadan Cultural Festival Committee appreciated Dr Oriyomi Hamzat and Agidigbo FM for their support and partnership towards the festival.
In a similar development, members of the committee paid a visit to Impact Business Radio, and were received by the Chairman of the Radio Station, Deacon Owolabi Oladejo, who welcomed the team, and equally pledged his usual support.
Deacon Owolabi Oladejo declared his intention to be part of Ibadan Conference where critical issues of development of Ibadanland will be tabled for discussion. The IBR Chairman challenged all Ibadan sons and daughters to make it a priority to see to the upliftment of their kinsmen
In the entourage of the Ibadan Cultural Festival Chairman were Chief Mrs Olaide Lawal, a member of the Board of Trustees of the CCII and Chairperson, Sub Committee on Culture and Tours, Secretary of the Committee; Engr. Musa Akere, Chairman, Media and Publicity Sub-committee & CCII Publicity Secretary, Mr Kola Olomide, 1st Assistant Secretary General of the CCII, Mogaji Kunle Shodeinde, who is also the Chairman, Contact, Marketing and Resource Mobilization Sub Committee, Chief Mrs Temitope Awotunde, Chairperson , Sub Committee on Orekelewa Brain and Beauty Contest, Mr Ademola Solalu, Co-Chairman, Media and Publicity Sub Committee, Alhaja Fadekemi Onaolapo, Member, Social and Entertainment Sub Committee, Alhaja Folasade Akinola, Member, Media and Publicity Sub Committee, Messrs Idowu Oloto and Kayode Ajani who are also members of the Media and Publicity Sub Committee
The 2024 Orekelewa Brain and Beauty Pageant subcommittee of the Central Planning Committee of Ibadan Cultural Festival has announced the sales of form for Orekelewa Brain and Beauty Pageant competition, as part of the activities of the 2024 Ibadan Cultural Festival activities.
Ibadan daughters within the age of 18 and 27years are eligible to apply for the form for N10,000 only. According to the committee, the competition is exclusively for Ibadan indigenes(daughters) within the ages of 18 and 27 years who are either in tertiary institutions or graduates and fit within that age range.
The committee further stated that the star prize for the first position is a big deep freezer, 1st runner up, a standard washing machine, and 2nd runner up, a smart TV, while other contestants will be given consolation prizes worth thousands of naira.
To obtain the form kindly reach out to the following numbers; 08051926026, 07032566464, as prospective candidate(s) do not necessarily have to visit Ibadan House, as forms can be obtained online by calling the numbers above and making payment to the designated account.
For further information, kindly read the flier attached to this post or call the numbers above.
Message of Hope, appeal for solidarity and rebuilding the association.
Let it be known that our living to witness the advent of a New Year is the highest privilege and blessing from God. For this grace, let us all give praises and adoration to our creator. We pray to witness many more years in fulfilment and realisation of our dreams.
The recently expired year 2023 is one that Grammarians will remember as a year of many achievements, yet of grievous losses. A year of accomplishments and sacrifices.
For the year 2024 beginning today, let us be steadfast in prayers and renewed Hope for a more blessed future. In doing this, I want to appeal for solidarity aimed at rebuilding a stronger Association. A formidable IGSOSA family in support of our alma mater.
Under the leadership of President David Oladimeji Mako, a long list of remarkable progress and achievements were recorded in 2023 despite the shortness of his regime.
2023 AIONIAN SPORTS AND ACADEMIC FESTIVAL tagged OLUYOLE 2023 was hosted by our school which was fully funded through massive donations from the Old Students and without a dime from the State government.
The 110 Founder’s Day and AGM celebration was held where 110 Mountaineers received different levels of signature awards.
Many Branches and Class Sets laudable projects were commissioned for the benefit of the school with particular mention of a multi-million naira ITC standard Tennis court donated by Mr. Abiodun Opawole of the 81/86 Class Set.
Centenary Book, a compendium of the entry of all old students since inception till year 2023 was launched.
Many indigent students were sponsored for their final examinations and some received scholarships to further their education in various tertiary institutions.
The administrative block was renovated by Class Set 69-73/75, while the Old School Hall was renovated by Class Set 1990/1995
Valedictory lecture, retirement from the University of Ibadan service and from Priesthood of Professor (Venerable) Kolawole Timothy Jaiyeoba was celebrated along his 70th birthday.
Dr. Mich. Adeniyi Adenuga (S/N 4396) CSG, GCON. 70th birthday was celebrated.
Our Chairman Registered Board of Trustees, Dr. Olorogun. Goodie Minnabo Ibru OON, DSc at 81 was celebrated.
Mr. Akinniyi Aboderin at 70th was celebrated .
The Constitution Review Committee was inaugurated
The School Hostel Renovation Committee was inaugurated.
Valedictory service of outgoing Senior Secondary School students was conducted and admitted into the IGSOSA family
Professor Oladapo Afolabi CFR an IGSOSA Trustee (S/N 6340) at 70th was celebrated.
Two of our icons, Chief Tunji Amole and Professor K.T. Jaiyeoba, both Pharmacists, former National Presidents and BoT members received Living Legend Awards by the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria PSN, Oyo State Chapter The list was endless and inexhaustible. As we count our gains, so also we count our losses.
In the same year 2023, we recorded some losses too many to mention but we give glory to God almighty.
Chief Mrs Christiana Adetayo Sulu, wife of our dear Papa Engineer Saidi Sulu passed on at the age of 85 on 5th May, 2023.
Chief Mrs Beatrice Ajoke Ige , a formidable Home Economics Teacher and mother of our prominent IGSOSA UK Bankole Ige passed on at age 87.
Mrs Adewale Amole, mother of our leader and Trustee, Chief Tunji Amole passed on at a very ripe age.
Pa Olatunde Adeniji (S/N 2668) of Class Set 51/56 passed on.
Mrs Josephine Ademola Taiwo a Junior School Business Studies Teacher passed on.
The first Professor of Geology in Africa, Professor Mosobalaje Oyawoye (S/N 2371) of 1947/1949 HSC passed on at 96 years.
Chairman of IGSOSA Foundation, Mr. Bankole Ademulegun (S/N 5054) of Class Set 67-71/73 passed on at 70 years.
Pa Chief Tunji Ajiboso 1944-1948, the oldest living Grammarian at the time of his passage aged 96.
The Nigerian Flag designer and an old Student, Mr. Taiwo Akinkunmi OFR (S/N 2650) Class Set 51-56, passed on.
Olayemi Onakunle of the 2001-2007 class set (S/N 22195) died in Aberdeen, Scotland while doing his PhD.
Sadly, the IGSOSA 12th National President, Mr. David Oladimeji Mako died on 22 October, 2023.
Following the sudden transition of President Mako, the mantle of leadership of the association fell on me and I was sworn-in by the Registered Board of Trustees Secretary, Mr. Ade Adedeji SAN on the 1st November, 2023.
The challenge of planning and organising a befitting and deserving Send Forth ceremony and immortalising President Dimeji Mako was rested on my shoulder. To the glory of God and the support of all the great Mountaineers worldwide, a week-long funeral activities was sponsored through huge voluntary donations and active participation from members far and near, while a sum of ten million naira was donated towards the Perimeter Fencing Project in honour of President Mako as the key project of his hearts. This is a landmark way to immortalise a great leader.
So far, the Balogun Gaphar Ojetola led administration with the promise and assurances to carry on from where Mako left aimed at following the true legacy of building a strong association in supporting the school has recorded these since emergence.
8th Emmanuel Alayande Memorial Distinguished Alumni Lecture and Food Exhibition. The hall packed memorial lecture was delivered by our leader and erudite Professor Charles Oguguah Aworh, the Most Distinguished Friend of Ibadanland (MDFI) and graciously attended amongst other important dignitaries by, His Royal Highness Oba Professor Alexander Olusegun McGregor the Olu of Orile Ilawo, Abeokuta, Ogun State. Chairman of the Lecture Organising committee was our respected , Professor Babajide Elemo and his team of egg-heads.
The Annual Prize Giving Day experienced improved and expanded categories of awards and prizes as sponsored by the Old Students worldwide. Cash prizes and various materials awards worth about five million naira were committed by individual, class set, branches and family sponsors at this year occassion.
The Patriach of the famous Olubi family and father of two of our prominent Old Students, Pa. Engineer Dotun Olubi passed on at 95. May their souls rest in perfect peace. Amen
The IGSOSA NEC and family were represented by the National President and National Treasurer during the Christmas visit to the wife and family of President David Oladimeji Mako.
Chief Mrs Jokotade Oni of Lagos chapter and Class Set 67-71/73, a great philanthropy and supporter of the association celebrated her 70th birthday in grand style. The association was well represented and gift presented.
The Perimeter Fencing Project received her first donation of One million naira from Class Set 72/76 MCN. This was followed by another Two million naira from Class Set 67-71/73
The Perimeter Fence Project passionate appeal:
The Ibadan Grammar School lands and property is highly porous to threats of invasion, vandalisation and land grabbing by unscrupulous elements in the society. We have the responsibility to protect our alma mater, especially when the government is doing absolutely nothing in this regard. The Old Students, in their traditions and giving back cultures has committed hundreds of millions of projects for the school benefit however, these infrastructures are constantly invaded, destroyed and stolen times without numbers. The initiative to fence the entire school compound has been on for a very long time and we should make concerted efforts to achieve this life time landmark project for our alma mater. It is a task that must be done, with all your support.
To our individual colleagues, please support and donate to this Perimeter Fencing Project.
To our Class Sets, please support and donate to this Perimeter Fencing Project.
To our Branches and Chapters, please support and donate to this Perimeter Fencing Project.
To corporate organisations and philanthropists, please support and donate generously to this Perimeter Fencing Project.
I pray that God enrich and bless you beyond human comprehension as you donate generously towards the project of our hearts. Amen and God bless you.
The dedicated account to donate: Ibadan Grammar School Old Students Association Foundation FCMB: 1007394180
Or call Mr. George Thorpe on +234809921388 Chairman, Class Set Representatives and Chairman Perimeter Fencing Project.
In the New Year 2024, we plan to have :
1.a one day of remembrance for all our departed souls with prayers to God to repose their souls and protect us all.
2.The tradition of celebrating our Founder’s Day will be adequately observed.
3.Efforts will be committed to strengthen understanding and cooperation amongst all the Grammarians and various interest groups.
The AIONIAN SPORTS Festival will be held at Ijebu-Ode this year and our School Team will need your support and funding. Pre-events activities has long commenced.
A full line up activities will be released along the budget for the whole year.
On behalf of the National Executive Council and the Registered Board of Trustees of the IGSOSA, permit me to register our profound appreciation to all who supported and continue to support our programs in the past years and the coming years.
Thanks and God bless you all. May the new year bring us peace, tranquility, everlasting joy and immense wellness.
Deo et patriae
Balogun Gaphar Babatunde Ojetola IGSOSA NATIONAL PRESIDENT
The 2024 Ibadan Cultural Festival Planning Committee on Thursday, 21st December 2023 expressed the desire of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes through the Cultural Festival Committee to honor Fresh FM 105.9 and Dr. Yinka Ayefele with Awards of Excellence to appreciate the contribution of both Fresh FM and its Chairman in the development of Ibadanland.
The visit to the Music House was led by the Chairman of the Cultural Planning Committee, Balogun Gaphar Ojetola, and had in attendance the Vice Chairperson of the Committee, Dr. Chief Alaga Ayo Monsurat, Secretary of the Committee; Engr. Musa Akere, Chairman, Media and Publicity Sub-committee & CCII Publicity Secretary, Mr Kola Olomide and other respected members of the committee.
On hand to receive the CCII team at FRESH FM among others were Mr Samson Akindele; Head of Corporate Affairs and Communication, Dr. Adebayo Faleke; Head of Marketing and General Manager of TIWA N TIWA FM and Mr Chike Ogbogu, Head of News of the station.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the Ibadan Cultural Festival Planning Committee, Balogun Ojetola appreciated the Management of Fresh FM Ibadan for upholding the tenets of broadcasting and contributing immensely to the socio economic development of Ibadanland.
According to the Chairman, the visit was part of the pre-activities of the Cultural Festival towards ensuring that every indigene and resident of Ibadan and beyond got informed about the week.
Balogun Gaphar Ojetola also emphasized the fact that it is only Ibadan throughout the southwest with a unified body called Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes, ” the uniqueness of the arrangement has been complementing government activities in areas promoting the Omoluabi culture, settling disputes, empowering people and promoting peace and tranquility among others” he added.
He further explained the beauty of Ibadanland as a megalopolis…a city without an end, 1 city, 63 towns, 3089 villages with 11 Local Governments, yet one people, unified with love and culture.
The Chairman outlined activities of the week which will span through seven (7) days in April, 2023 to include Prayers in Churches and Mosques, Orekelewa Brain and Beauty Contest, Amala and Fuji music day, Sporting competitions, Educational Contests from Primary, secondary and University categories, Medical Outreach, Shop for free, Business Luncheon, Youth Conference, and engagement with the Grand Finale finale to be held at Liberty Stadium.
In his response, Mr Samson Akindele applauded the visiting team for the great work CCII is doing, most especially on the new OLÚBÀDÀN palace which the first phase is nearing completion.
Mr Samson Akindele pledged the support of the Media house to promote the cultural festival from the pre, during and after the festival with lavish media coverage.
He expressed the delight of the organization to the news of Awards to be given the station and its founder, promising to keep promoting and supporting Ibadanland and its people.
The Chairman and Sole Administrator of Oyo State Pacesetter Transport Services, Hon. Dr. Oladeji Salami aka Dikko on Friday 8th of December hosted the Delegation of 2024 Ibadan Festival Week Central Planning Committee led by their Chairman, Balogun Gaphar Ojetola at his office.
Balogun Gaphar Ojetola was accompanied by the Sub-committee chairperson of Orekelewa Beauty Pageant, Chief Mrs Temitope Afolake Awotunde.
The visit was part of the Central Planning Committee pre-festival activities, where Ibadan sons and daughters who are contributing meaningful to the growth and development of the city are visited and also decorated.
The committee expressed the desire to decorate Hon. Oladeji Salami as a recognition of his contribution and services to Ibadan land and Oyo State in general.
While responding to the visiting team, Hon. Oladeji appreciated the committee for finding him worthy of the visit and promised the committee that Oyo State Pacesetter Transport Services will be a major sponsor of the cultural festival and immediately approved the release of 10 Omituntun buses for branding covering 9 routes in Ibadan Metropolis, and also approved date for courtesy visit part of the pre-activities of the 2024 week.
The 2024 Ibadan Cultural Festival Chairman, Balogun Gaphar Ojetola also applauded Hon. Dikko for his willingness to support the cultural festival and a major sponsor for Orekelewa Beauty Pageant Competition.
The Chairman will soon host the representatives of the constituted Ibadan Cultural Festival Planning Committee at an agreed date.
Yoruba Study Group, a coalition of young professionals and political conscious youth and some notable elders of yoruba origin on Thursday, the 19th of October, 2023 honored the immediate past President-General of Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes, who’s currently the National President for Nigerian Red Cross Society NRCS, Prince Oluyemisi Adeaga with a Golden Leadership Excellence Award.
According to the group, Prince Oluyemisi Adeaga has demonstrated significant level of excellence both in his professional career and service to humanity, hence the reason for giving him such prestigious award.
Prince Oluyemisi in his remark, appreciated the group and assured them of his continuous support. “I thank you for recognizing me for the little we have been doing in advancing the humanity cause, this recognition is also an acknowledgment that people are taking note of whatever we do, or that we are doing, and personally, I believe that giving back to the society is the duty of all, and we must all be part of it to have a society of our dream”
The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Dr. Moshood Ali Okumade II and the President-General of Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes, Chief Barrier Niyi Ajewole has thrown their support to the 2023 Federation of Ibadan Students’ Union National Council Week.
Accordingly to the National President of the Union, Aare Fakolade Anuoluwapo, he said that the week long activities has been scheduled to commence on the 23rd of October to 29th of October with royal blessings been received from His Imperial Majesty, Olubadan of Ibadan land, and the President of the highest social cultural organization in Ibadan land, Barrister Niyi Ajewole.
The 2023 FIBSU National Week will feature series of activities from the 23rd to 29th starting with Novelty match, Life after school seminar for higher institution students, quiz and orientation for secondary school students, Dinner & Award day, Jumat service, Excursion and Thanksgiving service.
Over 10,000 participants across all tertiary institutions throughout the country are expected to attend the event.
Finally, full schedule of activity for each day will be released by the planning committee in days to come.
The President-General of Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes, Barr Niyi Ajewole, who’s also the chairman of Ibadan Compound Peace Initiative, ICPC on behalf of all Ibadan sons and daughters has congratulated Chief Adebayo Adelabu on his nomination as a Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Barr Ajewole in his congratulatory message stated that they (CCII & ICPI) has raised concern since the beginning of this current political dispensation that it’s Ibadan turn to produce minister, and they are happy that it has come to reality, and more importantly, a very competent and one of their proud sons was nominated.
“Congratulations to an Amiable Ibadan son. Oloye Bayo Adelabu OFR, FCA. You have demonstrated that perseverance is a major key to success.
We in Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII) and Ibadan Compound Peace Initiatives (ICPI) have cried out that it should be our turn to have the Ministerial position and we thank God for answering our prayers moreso to a person we are all proud of”
The President further prayed to God to grant him more wisdom to be able to excel in his new role.
