The Secretary of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ogun State Council, Comrade Bunmi Adigun, has congratulated the Kurunmi of Ijaye-Egbaland, Aare (Prof.) Lai Labode, on the occasion of his first anniversary on the traditional throne, describing the milestone as a celebration of visionary leadership, community development and renewed hope for the ancient town.
In a congratulatory message released on Saturday to commemorate the anniversary, Adigun said the monarch’s first year on the throne has been marked by purposeful leadership, remarkable transformation and a renewed sense of unity among the sons and daughters of Ijaye at home and in the diaspora.
The NUJ scribe, who identified himself as a proud son of Ijaye with ancestral roots in both the Oladosu Compound and the Anigbio Compound, said the monarch’s reign has elevated the profile of Ijaye-Egbaland beyond its previous status while positioning the community for sustained growth and greater recognition.
According to him, “This milestone is not only a celebration of one year of leadership but also a testament to purposeful service, visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to the progress of our community”.
He added that within one year, the traditional ruler had redefined leadership through initiatives that have inspired confidence, promoted unity and accelerated development across the community.
“Under your reign, Ijaye has experienced renewed hope, greater visibility and a resurgence of pride among its sons and daughters at home and in the diaspora. Your reign has elevated the status of our ancient town, placing the name of Ijaye far beyond where you met it and positioning it as a community of excellence and promise”, Adigun stated.
The seasoned journalist further praised Prof. Labode’s accessibility, wisdom and commitment to preserving the cultural heritage of Ijaye while embracing modern development, noting that these qualities have earned him admiration across Egbaland and beyond.
“As someone whose paternal and maternal heritage is firmly rooted in Ijaye, I have watched with immense pride as your administration continues to inspire confidence and attract meaningful development”, he said.
Speaking from the perspective of the journalism profession, Adigun commended the monarch for fostering dialogue, inclusiveness, peace and community engagement.
“As journalists, we appreciate leaders who understand the importance of truth, dialogue, and community engagement. Your reign has reflected these values, fostering peace, inclusiveness and a sense of belonging among all sons and daughters of Ijaye”, he added.
He prayed for continued divine guidance, sound health, wisdom and many more years of impactful leadership for the monarch, expressing optimism that the palace would continue to serve as a beacon of justice, unity, cultural preservation and sustainable development.
The first anniversary of Aare (Prof.) Lai Labode’s reign has attracted goodwill messages from prominent sons and daughters of Ijaye-Egbaland, with many describing the occasion as a celebration of leadership, service and the enduring cultural heritage of one of Egbaland’s historic communities.
