By Tunji Oladejo
It is a well-deserved honour! In a glittering celebration of service, dedication and impact, The Royal Group (Egbe Omo Alade Ile Ibadan) honoured Chief Mrs Omolola Odekunbi with its prestigious Exemplary Service in Community Development Award during its 21st Anniversary festivities on Saturday, 14 December, 2025. This accolade is a testament to her never-ending dedication to community upliftment, professional excellence and her indelible mark on society.
Chief Mrs Odekunbi, a beacon of leadership and empowerment, has long championed causes close to her heart, embodying the values the Royal Group, founded 21 years ago, holds dear: integrity, service and cultural pride. Chief Odekunbi’s work spans philanthropy, women’s empowerment, education and youth mentorship, touching countless lives in Ibadanland and beyond. Her passion for giving back, coupled with her business acumen, has made her a respected figure in both professional and social circles.
The Royal Group’s choice of Chief Mrs Odekunbi for this award reflects her embodiment of the Group’s ethos. Under her influence, countless initiatives have flourished, from scholarships for underprivileged students to skill-acquisition programmes empowering women entrepreneurs. Her story is a reminder that leadership is not about titles but about impact.
To Chief Mrs Odekunbi, I say: Ad multos annos!_ May this award fuel your continued excellence. Your legacy inspires us all. The Royal Group’s Exemplary Service in Community Development Award shines brightly on you. Congratulations, Chief! 👏💪
And in the vibrant tapestry of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), there are threads of dedication, passion and wisdom woven by extraordinary individuals. Today, I celebrate one of such threads—a woman I prefer to address as a patriotic sister whose service, kindness and strength have left an indelible mark on our great organisation. As we celebrate her birthday, I acknowledge not just a colleague but a beacon of excellence who inspires all.
ALSO READ: Summit: Oyo APC Youth Harps on Unity, Strategy Ahead of Future Elections
We served with distinction in successive administrations of stalwarts like Asiwaju Bode Amao OON, Chief Yusuf Akande, and many others, contributing, shaping policies and championing causes close to Ibadan’s heart. Your involvement wasn’t just about meetings and projects—it was about people. You worked tirelessly to uplift members, address their needs, and ensure CCII remained a beacon of unity for Ibadanland. I affirm that your presence brought light to our gatherings and your wisdom guided us through tough decisions.
Beyond the Council chambers, your vibrant health, sharp mind and generous spirit have touched countless lives. Whether offering counsel to the young, support to the struggling, or laughter with friends, you embody the best of Ibadan’s values: resilience, warmth and patriotism. I recall our countless hours at CCII meetings, brainstorming solutions, debating with passion and laughing over shared meals. Those memories are treasures.
On this special day, I extend my deepest gratitude and best wishes: May God grant you many more years of optimal health and happiness. May Almighty God’s blessings locate you wherever you are, opening doors of opportunity and peace. May your celebration be filled with love, surrounded by family, friends and the warmth of Ibadan’s community.
You’ve paid your dues—and more—to CCII and Ibadanland. Now, as you mark another year, know that your legacy inspires us to do better. May you continue to be a source of inspiration, strength and kindness to all.
Happy, happy birthday, Chief Mrs Omolola Odekunbi (Iya Idera)! Cheers!!!
Tunji Oladejo, JP, mnipr, who writes from the University of Ibadan, is the Chairman of The Progressive Forum, Ibadan (TPFI) via oladejo65@gmail.com.
08077284442
