Oluremi Tinubu, Nigeria’s First Lady, has been conferred with the esteemed title of Iya Oba of Ikorodu by Oba Kabir Shotobi, the traditional ruler of Ikorodu in Lagos State. This prestigious honour, bestowed during the celebrations marking Oba Shotobi’s 10th coronation anniversary, signifies not only Mrs. Tinubu’s personal achievements but also her commitment to the well-being of Nigerians, a priority she emphasized as a cornerstone of the current administration. Represented by the wife of Lagos State’s deputy governor, Oluremi Hamzat, the First Lady expressed her profound gratitude for the recognition and acknowledged the weighty responsibility that accompanies such a distinguished title. She recognized the cultural significance of the Iya Oba title, particularly within the historical and vibrant Ikorodu kingdom, a community known for its industrious people and significant contributions to Lagos State.
The conferment ceremony, a highlight of the week-long coronation anniversary celebrations, attracted numerous dignitaries from across the country, including prominent political figures, traditional rulers, and community leaders. The event served as a testament to Oba Shotobi’s decade-long reign, which has been lauded for fostering peace, progress, and stability within the Ikorodu kingdom. Mrs. Tinubu commended the Oba for his leadership, which she credited with strengthening the cultural heritage of the community. The First Lady’s recognition of Oba Shotobi’s accomplishments underscores the importance of traditional leadership within the Nigerian context and the symbiotic relationship between such leadership and the Federal Government’s agenda.
Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau echoed the sentiments of the First Lady, praising Oba Shotobi’s impactful leadership, which he attributed to the rise of numerous Ikorodu indigenes to national prominence. Barau highlighted the Oba’s inclusive leadership style as a key factor in the transformation of Ikorodu from a rural community into a thriving business hub. This transformation exemplifies the positive impact of effective leadership in driving local development and contributing to national economic growth. The Deputy Senate President’s acknowledgement of the Oba’s achievements further solidified the significance of the coronation anniversary and the widespread respect garnered by the traditional ruler.
The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, a revered figure within the traditional leadership structure of Nigeria, added his voice to the chorus of praise for Oba Shotobi. He commended the Oba’s impactful leadership and expressed his gratitude to President Bola Tinubu’s administration for its ongoing reforms and the “Renewed Hope” agenda, highlighting the alignment of traditional leadership with the national development goals. This connection between traditional authority and the Federal Government’s agenda underscores the importance of collaboration and shared vision in achieving national progress. The Ooni’s presence and pronouncements added further gravitas to the occasion, signifying the widespread recognition of Oba Shotobi’s contributions.
Further endorsements of Oba Shotobi’s leadership came from prominent figures like Oba Babatunde Ajayi, the ruler of Remoland in Ogun State, and Buba Marwa, the chairman of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA). Their commendations highlighted the Oba’s influence extending beyond the borders of Ikorodu and resonating within neighbouring regions. The recognition from these influential figures further cemented Oba Shotobi’s standing as a respected leader with a broad impact. The collective praise from diverse sectors of Nigerian society underscored the significance of the Oba’s leadership in promoting peace, stability, and development.
The conferment of the Iya Oba title on Mrs. Tinubu, combined with the widespread accolades directed at Oba Shotobi, served to emphasize the interwoven relationship between traditional leadership, the Federal Government, and the well-being of Nigerian citizens. The event showcased the importance of cultural heritage and the role of traditional rulers in fostering unity and progress within their communities. The outpouring of respect and admiration for both Mrs. Tinubu and Oba Shotobi reflected a shared commitment to national development and a belief in the power of collaborative leadership to achieve meaningful progress for the benefit of all Nigerians. The occasion served as a platform for recognizing outstanding leadership and reinforcing the vital role of traditional institutions in shaping the nation’s future.
