Birthday Tribute: Celebrating Hon. Abass Alesinloye

Today, we joyfully celebrate the birthday of Hon. Abass Alesinloye, a leader whose dedication to youth, governance, and community continues to inspire many across Ibadan and beyond.

As a former Chairman of Oluyole Local Government, you showed that public service, at its best, means being close to the people, listening, caring, and delivering results. Under your leadership, vocational training, local development, and youth empowerment programs blossomed, and your leadership has left a lasting mark.

One of the most meaningful recognitions you have received was being honoured with the “Most Distinguished Ibadan Indigene” award bestowed on you by the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII). This award recognizes not just service, but the integrity, humility, and commitment that earned you the respect of both traditional institutions and everyday citizens who see in you a true son of Ibadan.

In 2024, the Federation of Ibadan Students’ Union (FIBSU) at Obafemi Awolowo University further acknowledged your tireless support for student communities by selecting you for their prestigious Award of Excellence, among other notable awards to your name.

On this special day, we express profound gratitude for your mentorship, your belief in youth, and the leadership you’ve provided in politics and governance. You model how one can be both powerful and approachable, formal and warm.

May this birthday bless you with continued wisdom, strength, and joy. Thank you for being a leader who rises — and lifts others as you rise.

Courtesy:
Ajani Oluwakayode,
Former President, Federation of Ibadan Students’ Union, Obafemi Awolowo University.

Glitz and Glamour: The Gallant Participation of the Oloye Iyalode of Ibadanland at the Farewell Reception for the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin Ige

Ibadan came out in large numbers to honour the life and legacy of the 43rd Olubadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin Ige, at his farewell reception. The atmosphere was filled with respect, tradition, and a deep sense of community pride.

Among the dignitaries who attended, the Oloye Iyalode of Ibadanland stood out. Dressed in an elegant cultural attire they carried themselves with the grace and authority that their title commands. Their presence was not just ceremonial—it was meaningful. As the voice of women in Ibadan’s traditional council, they came to pay their respects and to recognise the late Olubadan’s commitment to unity and fairness.

In the entourage were;Oloye Iyalode of Ibadanland (Iyalode in council); Oloye Yewande Durosaro – Osi Iyalode of Ibadanland; Oloye Onikepo Akande – Iyalaje Iyalode of Ibadanland; Oloye Kudirat Adeleke – Ekerin Iyalode of Ibadanland; Oloye Jadesola Oshodi – Asaju Iyalode ofIbadanland; Oloye Yetunde Adegoke -Oota Iyalode of Ibadanland; Oloye Basirat Ajibola -Aare Onibon Iyalode of Ibadanland; Oloye Folake Akande – Bada Iyalode of Ibadanland; Oloye Ayo Alaga – Ajia Iyalode of Ibadanland; Oloye Onibiyi Scott – Jagun Iyalode of Ibadanland.

The farewell to Oba Owolabi Olakulehin Ige will be remembered for its blend of honour and tradition—and the gallant participation of the Oloye Iyalode will remain a proud part of that history.

Mogaji Akere chairs Ibadan Cultural Festival 2026 committee

The Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII) has announced the constitution of the planning committee for the 2026 edition of the Ibadan Cultural Festival.

A statement on Saturday by the Council’s Publicity Secretary, Mr. Kola Olomide, said the announcement was made by the CCII President-General, Chief (Barr.) Ajeniyi Ajewole, during the the monthly general assembly meeting held at Ibadan House, Oke Aremo, on Friday.

The newly constituted committee will be chaired by Mogaji Moshood Gbolagade Akere, a respected figure in Ibadan’s socio-cultural circles. Akere is the current vice chairman of Omo Aj’orosun Club and a financial member of the Association of Ancient Ibadan Warlords Families.Also appointed into the committee is Mrs Toyin Oyebola, a Chief Lecturer in the Department of Languages and Communication, The Polytechnic, Ibadan. Oyebola, who also serves as the vice president of Ibadan Vanguard Sisters, was named vice chairperson of the 2026 planning committee. She had earlier served as the chairperson of the education sub-committee in the 2025 festival.The position of committee secretary was assigned to Prince Saheed Oyebamiji, a seasoned cultural administrator. Oyebamiji is the assistant secretary of the Association of The Ibadan Patriots (ATIP), and the current Ssecretary of the Association of Ancient Ibadan Warlords Families. He also served as the assistant secretary of the 2025 Ibadan Cultural Festival Planning Committee and currently doubles as the secretary of the sports sub-committee.Speaking on the appointments, Ajewole tasked the committee to raise the bar and surpass the achievements recorded during the 2025 edition of the festival, which was chaired by Oloye Abiola Alli.

“We believe that with the calibre of individuals selected for the 2026 committee, the coming edition will showcase Ibadan’s rich heritage more vibrantly and inclusively,” he said.In his acceptance speech, Akere expressed appreciation to the CCII for the trust reposed in him and pledged to deliver a memorable cultural celebration that would further uplift Ibadan’s image.

“We are committed to organising a festival that all Ibadan sons and daughters at home and abroad will be proud of. Our tradition is our pride, and we shall preserve and promote it with dignity,” he said.Oyebola also commended the CCII leadership for ensuring continuity in the selection process. She pledged full support for the committee chairman and expressed optimism that the 2026 festival would deepen youth participation and educational content.

Oyebamiji, on his part, described his reappointment as a call to greater service. “Having been part of the 2025 team, I understand the scale of work and coordination required. This time, we are aiming higher,” he said.CCII urged all clubs, families, and stakeholders in Ibadanland to support the newly inaugurated committee in its mission to deliver an impactful cultural festival.

The Iyalode of Ibadanland in-Council Pay Condolence Visit to Olubadan Olakulehin Family, Olubadan-in-Council

The Iyalode of Ibadanland in-Council under the leadership of the Iyalode of Ibadan, High Chief (Mrs) Theresa Oyekanmi on Thursday , 10th July 2025 paid a solemn condolence visit to the family of the late Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty Oba Dr. Owolabi Akinloye Olakulehin, who passed on recently after a brief but dignified reign.

Led by the representative of the Iyalode, the delegation visited the late monarch’s family compound to express their heartfelt sympathies and support to the bereaved family. Speaking during the visit, the team described the late Olubadan as a father to all and a leader who embodied wisdom, patience, and a deep love for the culture and people of Ibadanland.

“We came, not to mourn , but to celebrate the life of Kabiyesi with the Olakulehin family, on the passing into glory of our illustrious patriarch. We remember him as a beacon of humility and service who has left an indelible mark in the history of Ibadanland. Kabiyesi lived an honourable life, and though his reign was brief, it carried the weight of peace and dignity,” the Iyalode said.

In continuation of their condolence visit, the Iyalode Chiefs also visited the Olubadan-in-Council at the Olubadan Palace, Oke Aremo, to express their shared grief and reaffirm their solidarity with the traditional leadership of Ibadanland. The chiefs were received by members of the Olubadan-in-Council, who appreciated the gesture and noted that the unity and reverence shown by the Iyalode Chiefs during this period of mourning reflects the enduring strength and harmony of Ibadan’s traditional institutions.

In the entourage were;Oloye Iyalode of Ibadanland (Iyalode in council); Oloye Yewande Durosaro – Osi Iyalode of Ibadanland; Oloye Onikepo Akande – Iyalaje Iyalode of Ibadanland,; Oloye Kudirat Adeleke – Ekerin Iyalode of Ibadanland;Oloye Mojisola Ladipo – Ekefa Iyalode of Ibadanland; Oloye Olanrewaju Otiti – Agbaakin Iyalode of Ibadanland; Oloye Tawakalitu Sharafadeen Alli – Aregbe Omo Iyalode of Ibadanland; Oloye Folake Akande – Bada Iyalode of Ibadanland; Oloye Ayo Alaga – Ajia Iyalode of Ibadanland; Oloye Onibiyi Scott – Jagun Iyalode of Ibadanland

A Royal Tribute to His Imperial Majesty, Oba Dr. Owolabi Akinloye Olakulehin, Ige Olakulehin I by Balogun Gaphar Ojetola GAIC

On the Occasion of His 90th Birthday and First Anniversary on the Throne as Olubadan of Ibadanland

With hearts filled with gratitude to Almighty God, we join the good people of Ibadanland, Oyo State, and Nigeria at large in celebrating a rare milestone in the life of a most revered monarch—His Imperial Majesty, Oba Dr. Owolabi Akinloye Olakulehin, Ige Olakulehin I, the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland.

Today, we honour a nonagenarian royal icon, a statesman of great pedigree, and a traditional ruler whose ascension to the throne is both divinely orchestrated and historically significant. At 90 years of age and after one full year of peaceful and purposeful reign, Kabiyesi continues to stand as a symbol of grace, wisdom, resilience, and unity.

Your Majesty, your journey from humble beginnings through public service, military distinction, and leadership in various spheres, culminating in your ascension to the highest traditional stool in Ibadanland, is a compelling testimony of destiny fulfilled.

In your first year as Olubadan, you have demonstrated quiet strength, inclusivity, and a deep commitment to preserving the cultural heritage of our people while fostering development and unity. The calm dignity with which you rule has brought renewed prestige to the Olubadan institution and has inspired confidence in traditional leadership.
In the course of just one year on the throne, Kabiyesi has brought about a refreshing wave of peace, stability, and administrative progress in Ibadanland. His reign has been characterized by purpose-driven leadership and reform-minded governance.
Noteworthy achievements include:
The establishment of a systematic and transparent approach to chieftaincy matters;
The creation of a dedicated committee to tackle land grabbing, a bold and timely response to a pressing challenge;
And the streamlining of the installation processes for Mogajis and Baales, restoring dignity and order to these vital traditional roles.
These deliberate initiatives have strengthened the fabric of traditional leadership and promoted the welfare of the people. They are emblematic of Kabiyesi’s visionary and steady hand on the reins of Ibadan’s cultural and civic affairs

As you celebrate 90 impactful years on earth and 365 days of royal service, we salute your remarkable life of honour and enduring service to humanity. You have become a living bridge between the glorious past of Ibadan and its promising future.

We pray that Almighty God continues to grant you divine health, strength, and peace of mind, so you may continue to reign in wisdom, justice, and prosperity over the great city of Ibadanland.

Kabiyesi, K’ade pe l’ori, ki bata pe l’ese.

Long live the Olubadan! Long live Ibadanland!

Balogun Ambassador Gaphar Babatunde Ojetola GAIC.
N4/144 Aare Oje Quarters
Adeoyo, Ibadan.

PITCH – Nigeria’s Unique Multipurpose Conference set to host its 4th Edition this August 2025

Organized by SpirePoint Consulting (brand owners of Jobsandmoreng.com), PITCH is a dynamic platform where talents in business, career, arts and technology shine.

Join us for an exciting experience featuring career talks with industry experts, on-the-spot interviews, resume and cover letter reviews, career counseling, and pitching sessions for individuals, businesses, and brands. Additional Features includes: Special Talk on Entrepreneurship, Free Career and Business Plenary Session, Free Business and Career Counselling, Networking opportunities.

This year’s edition is done in collaboration with www.verionx.com (a job and learning platform) and RCCG Tabernacle of Faith, Alagbole-Akute, Ogun State and it is tagged 2025 Pitch Mega Careerfest focusing more on being a high-impact employability and business development event aimed at bridging the gap between businesses and clients as well as jobseekers with prospective employers. It promises to be even bigger, bringing together over 500 attendees (physically and virtually) actively seeking job opportunities across various sectors.

Organisations will enjoy direct access to this talent pool giving them the opportunity to scout and engage qualified candidates for current and future recruitment needs (whether internship offers, part-time or full-time job opportunities).

In addition to recruitment opportunities, organisations can also take advantage of various levels of advertising, sponsorship, or partnership at the event.
DATE: Saturday 2nd August, 2025
TIME: 8am prompt
VENUE: RCCG TABERNACLE OF FAITH: 11, Pipeline Road, Alagbole-Akute, Ogun State, Nigeria.
LIVE STREAMING: Verionx (LinkedIn page) and @Pitch_Careerfest (Instagram)
SPEAKERS include the following –
Boluwatife Awofadeju: Convener, Pitch / CEO, SpirePoint Consulting (SPC)
Sean Olabode Badiru: Co-Founder, Africa TechHub
Elijah Moses, Founder, Verionx
Dr Onomuorhoya President: Country Manager, Nigeria – World Innovators University / President – Pathfinders College of Management and Accounting
Adewunmi Elizabeth Adetutu – HR Manager, Bevel-Edge Interior Designs Limited
Amarachi Oduyemi – Lead HR and Shared Services, DSL Experimental Marketing Services
REGISTRATION: bit.ly/pitchcareerfest
   
Register now and take a bold step toward your next big opportunity!  
For more Inquiries, Pitching, Advert Placement, Sponsorship Request or Support, Kindly reach out to SpirePoint Consulting via: 08132327213. Email: jobsandmoreng@gmail.com.

Peter Obi Commends Tinubu’s Visit to Benue, Urges Similar Gesture for Flood-Hit Niger State

Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, Mr. Peter Obi, has extended appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for finally deciding to visit Benue State following the massacre of over 150 people by suspected assailants over the weekend.In a strongly worded statement posted on social media, Obi described the move as “refreshing news” for a nation deeply wounded by repeated tragedies, but urged the President not to stop at Benue. He called on Tinubu to also visit Niger State specifically Mokwa where over 200 lives were reportedly lost and more than 1,000 persons remain missing due to a recent flooding disaster.

“Given the emergency nature of these incidents, a prompt visit would have delivered the urgency needed, instead of giving future dates that makes it look like a state visit,” Obi stated.

He drew comparisons with President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa, who recently embarked on a nearly 1,900 km round trip to Mthatha to visit flood victims despite the incident claiming fewer than 100 lives. According to Obi, the distance from Abuja to both Makurdi (Benue) and Mokwa (Niger) combined is far shorter and should not be an obstacle for the Nigerian President.

“These are not just statistics; they are the lives of Nigerian families torn apart and their communities destroyed,” he said. “If the South African President could do it, we trust that you, as our own President, can do the same for your people.”Obi emphasized that a visit to flood-ravaged Niger State would send a strong and needed message: that all Nigerian lives matter, and no community no matter how remote is forgotten.He also called on the President to step up security and disaster response efforts across the country, warning that true leadership must go beyond “remote control” and involve visible, compassionate action.

“We look forward to seeing not leadership by remote control but proactive leadership that responds not just with words, but with compassion and action,” Obi concluded.

Police Begins Investigation As Robbery Attack Leaves Many Injured In Ibadan

Pandemonium was let loose on Wednesday as armed robbers attacked some shops in Mokola area of Ibadan, the Oyo State capital city.

Shooting sporadically into the air to scare away innocent people, the robbers operation was said to have lasted barely five minutes.It was gathered that no fewer than three people sustained gunshot wounds during the robbery operation which took place near the Mokola bridge, Ibadan.

A source said the incident happened at about 11:30AM with the robbers carting away undisclosed valuables including cash.

Eye witness said the victims were attacked as they were about entering into a store to buy provisions meant for retail, noting that the robbers could have traced the victims to the store as they succeeded in carting away an unconfirmed amount of money at gun point.Another source added that the armed robbers shot sporadically for minutes and two people sustained gunshot injuries while another person lost consciousness before the arrival of the police.It was gathered that, while a middle-aged man sustained gunshot injury near his groins, another was hit in the leg and a teenager with a bullet wound on her wrist.

As at the time of filing this repor, the victims were said to be receiving medical attention at Alaafia Hospital, Mokola as security surveillance around the vicinity has increased.When contacted, the Spokesman of Oyo Police Command, Adewale Osifeso, a Chief Superintendent of Police, confirmed the incident, saying no fatality was recorded.He added that, although there were gunshots, two people sustained injuries.

He debunked insinuations that the attack happened in a bank, but under the Mokola bridge, cautioning residents from spreading panic and fear through their reports.He said further investigation has commenced into the incident, assuring that the Police will get to the root of it.He called on the people to remain calm and go about their activities lawfully.

Death and the Need to Live for Others in Being Kind and Supportive: Adieu Chief Elite Jamiu Diekola Onaolapo by Balogun Ambassador Gaphar Babatunde Ojetola GAIC

Death is a universal reality that unites all of humanity, regardless of culture, religion, or social status. It is the final chapter in every human life, yet its certainty often inspires people to reflect on how they live their lives. In the face of death’s inevitability, the meaning of life becomes a pressing question. One profound answer to that question lies in the human capacity to care for one another. Kindness, compassion, and support for others not only give meaning to our lives but also allow us to leave a lasting impact beyond our own existence.

Understanding death encourages humility. It is a reminder that our time is finite, and that every moment we spend angry, bitter, or self-centered is a moment lost. When we acknowledge that we are here for only a limited time, our priorities begin to shift. The pursuit of wealth, power, or status often fades in significance, and what emerges instead is the value of relationships, empathy, and love. We begin to realize that how we treat others is perhaps the most important legacy we leave behind.

Living for others does not mean sacrificing our individuality or suppressing our own needs. Rather, it is about recognizing our interconnectedness. Every act of kindness, no matter how small, sends ripples through the lives of others. A comforting word, a helping hand, or simply listening to someone in pain can transform a moment of despair into one of hope. These gestures create a world in which people feel valued, understood, and not alone.

In many ways, death brings clarity. It teaches us that the pain of loss is often soothed not by grand gestures but by simple acts of support. When someone passes away, it is the presence of friends and family, the shared memories, and the support of the community that help the grieving move forward. This is a reflection of our deepest human need—to be seen, to be heard, and to be loved. We cannot stop death, but we can ease the burden of life by being kind and supportive to those around us.

The idea of living for others is deeply rooted in many religious and philosophical traditions. In Christianity, for example, the commandment to “love thy neighbor as thyself” is a central tenet. Buddhism emphasizes compassion and the alleviation of suffering. In African communal philosophies such as Ubuntu, the belief is that “I am because we are,” highlighting that our humanity is defined by our relationships with others.

From the Islamic perspective, both death and the need to live for others are central themes. The Qur’an states, “Every soul shall taste death” (Surah Al-Imran, 3:185), reminding believers that life is temporary and should be spent in preparation for the eternal hereafter. Islam teaches that the best preparation for death is not only prayer and worship but also living a life of service, kindness, and compassion.

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, “Be in this world as though you were a stranger or a traveler” (Sahih Bukhari), a reminder of our brief stay on earth. He also said, “Allah is kind and loves kindness in all matters” (Sahih Muslim), and even described a smile as an act of charity. These teachings elevate everyday kindness into acts of spiritual significance.

A particularly powerful concept in Islam is Sadaqah Jariyah—ongoing charity. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) taught that when a person dies, their deeds end except for three: ongoing charity, beneficial knowledge, and a righteous child who prays for them (Sahih Muslim). This highlights that living for others is the highest order of service to humanity.These traditions remind us that true fulfillment does not come from isolation or selfish gain but from our ability to uplift and care for one another.

Furthermore, in the face of death, kindness becomes a form of resistance—a way of asserting that love and goodness still matter. When someone chooses to be kind, especially in a world that can often be harsh and indifferent, it is a powerful statement. It is saying, “Despite everything, I choose to make things better for someone else.” This choice becomes even more meaningful when we understand that we may not have another chance. Every day offers an opportunity to be someone’s source of light in the darkness.

Many people who have faced the loss of a loved one often find purpose in helping others. This is not just a coping mechanism; it is a testament to the idea that love does not end with death. It transforms. Parents who lose a child may start a foundation in their name. Friends who lose someone to illness may raise awareness or funds for research. These acts of kindness carry the memory of the deceased forward, ensuring that their lives continue to make a difference.

Living for others also means being present. In our fast-paced, digitally connected world, it is easy to overlook the people right in front of us. Genuine support often comes not from grand plans but from paying attention, from noticing when someone is struggling and choosing to care. Being present is an act of kindness in itself. It says, “You matter. I see you.” These moments of connection are often what people remember most, especially when time runs out.Support can take many forms—emotional, physical, financial, or simply moral. Sometimes, supporting others means standing up for them, advocating for justice, or creating space for their voices to be heard. Other times, it means sitting silently beside someone who is grieving. The key is empathy—putting ourselves in others’ shoes and responding with humanity. Such support builds stronger families, resilient communities, and a more compassionate world.Moreover, living kindly and supportively for others enhances our own lives. Research shows that people who practice kindness and altruism experience greater happiness, lower stress, and improved mental health. Helping others gives a sense of purpose and fulfillment that material success alone cannot offer. In a paradoxical way, by focusing on others, we enrich ourselves. The more love we give, the more we feel it within us.In facing death, some may feel fear or sadness, but others find motivation to live more deeply and meaningfully. Knowing that life is short pushes us to make every interaction count. We may not have control over how or when we die, but we do have control over how we live and how we treat others. That power is both a responsibility and a gift.

When one understudy the life and death of Chief Elite Jamiu Diekola Onaolapo of the Egbinola Pharmacy, Oranyan Ibadan who returned to his creator on the best Day on earth, Day of Arafat, Thursday 5th June, 2025 it will remain a lesson for others to have a rethink of this ephemeral life and live for others.

In conclusion, death, far from being only an end, is also a teacher. It reminds us of the fragility and beauty of life. It challenges us to ask what kind of mark we want to leave behind. And in answering that question, we are guided to a life of kindness and support. Living for others—through compassion, presence, and care—is not only noble but necessary. It is the truest way to honor the lives we touch and the finite time we are given. Through our actions, we can ensure that even though we all must die, we live on in the love we have shown and the lives we have uplifted.

Baba Chief Elite Jamiu Diekola Onaolapo was the Chairman Board of Trustees, Oluyole Social Elites Club Ibadan and member of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes Board of Trustees.

May Allah accept his return and admit him unconditionally into the best level of Aljannah. Ameen

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