.as Yoruba generalissimo marks occasion with Scholarship Awards to students
By Our Reporter
The Alaafin of Oyo, HRM Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade 1, other prominent Yoruba oba, and dignitaries from across the country on Friday on Friday to celebrate the Aare Onakakanfo of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Adams, on his 56th birthday, commending for strong commitment to the preservation of Yoruba culture and tradition and more importantly, safety and security of Yoruba land.
Speaking at the event, which took place at Muson Centre, and attended by other monarchs, including Zaaki of Arigidi Akoko, Oba Yisa Olanipekun; the Alayandelu of Odo Ayandelu, Oba Aderibigbe Asunmo Ijamade 1, among others, the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Owoade, commended the celebrant for doggedness and commitment to ensuring preservation of Yoruba tradition and culture and more importantly, safety and security of Yoruba land.
The foremost monarch said having Adams as the Yoruba generalissimo was not a regret at all, even as he quickly noted that not many people thought he would live this long when he was being installed then "in his 40s and now he his 56."
"He is the chief Marshal of Yoruba army. I am happy to be here today. He became the Aare Onakankafo of Yoruba, contrary to the thought of many people, they said Aare Onakankafo don’t live long on the throne. He got on the throne in his 40s and now he his 56, I pray he live long on the throne to the ripe age.
"I greet everyone here for standing by Iba Gani Adams. May we live to witness more years in good health and abundance.
"Iba Adams was among the first to congratulate me when I was announced as the Alaafin of Oyo. He was one of the few that supported me both morally, spiritually and also gave over 30 of his men to watch over me.
"Having him as the Aare Onakankafo of Yoruba land is not a regret at all. He has been active and committed to the safety and protection of Yoruba land," the Alaafin stated.
The Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Adams, while speaking at the occasion, announced scholarship awards to five outstanding students as part of activities marking his 56th birthday celebration.
The beneficiaries include Aderibigbe Oluwapamilerin of Lagos State University of Education (LASUED), Alaofin Oluwafemi of the Federal University of Technology and Environmental Services, Iyin-Ekiti, Taiwo Grace of University of Ibadan, Awoyele Michael of University of Ilesa, and Okafor Cynthia of Trinity University.
The Yoruba generalissimo noted that, as it has become customary for him, this year’s birthday activities also included visits to the less-privileged homes.
“This is to celebrate with them in our own little way and donate various food items and household materials during the week leading up to today’s celebration,” he said.
He further noted that he had celebrated his birthday consistently since the year 2000 without interruption, expressing gratitude to God for preserving his life over the years.
“I thank Almighty God for preserving my life year after year, and my ancestors and elemental beings stationed across Yorubaland for their protection.
“I also appreciate all my supporters who consistently honour me with their presence and goodwill during these celebrations.
“As I reflect on the past year, I am filled with gratitude for the lessons learned and the memories made.
“Birthdays are not merely about marking another year, but about appreciating the journey and the people who have walked it with us. Each of you has played a vital role in my life, and I cherish our shared moments,” he said.
Adams, who is also the leader of the Oodua Peoples Congress (OPC), further appreciated God for His abundant blessings and guidance throughout his life.
Also speaking, President of Women Arise for Change Initiative and the Campaign for Democracy, Dr Joe Okei-Odumakin commended Iba Adams for his courage, resilience and his commitment towards cultural propagation.
She identified the Yoruba generalissimo as a figure for restructuring the Yoruba race, saying that he had "shown us the struggle is not a phase but a lifelong struggle.
“Aare is not just the 15th Aare Onakankafo, we celebrate him for consistency, courage and resilience and commitment to the preservation of Yoruba culture and tradition.
"He has never betrayed the struggle. He is a figure for restructuring the Yoruba race. He has shown us the struggle is not a phase but a lifelong struggle. He has insisted that nobody’s life is worth to be wasted. We celebrate him today for his selflessness and his love for the country and the Yoruba race," she said.
Earlier in his remarks, the Chairman of the Planning Committee for the 56th birthday celebration, Chief Dauda Asikolaiye, described the occasion as more than a personal celebration.
According to him, the event was a tribute to the values and leadership qualities represented by the Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland.
“Our gathering today is to celebrate the values and leadership of Iba Gani Adams. We have prepared a rich programme, including cultural performances, after a week-long series of activities.
“I congratulate Iba Gani Adams and appreciate all guests for their support,” he said.
The event attracted attracted several traditional rulers, members of the OPC from within and outside Nigeria, family members, friends, and well-wishers, including Prof. Kenny Duru, Chief Francis Oloto, Hon. Ademola Olatunbosun, Alhaji Adesina Fatai Alaska, Bishop and Mrs. Kayode Williams, Patrick Doyle of Itsekiri Omoluabi Forum, Aare Tomori Williams, the Aare Onikoyi of Yoruba, Chief Rasheed Agunbiade, among others while musical entertainment was provided by Tolu Obey.
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