By Adeyinka Adeniran
Aareonakakanfo of Yoruba land, Iba Gani Adams has applauded the efforts of all the delegates that attended the 2025 edition of the Oodua Progressive Union (OPU) World Congress in Ibadan, Oyo State, saying the presence of over 250 delegates for the event was a major forex and economic boost to Nigeria.
Speaking at the dinner organized as part of the programmes for the congress, Iba Adams, who is also the global convener of the diaspora organization said the unrelenting efforts of the Yoruba diaspora organization in improving forex and adding value to the economy of the country cannot be over- emphasized.
The Yoruba generalissimo stated further that OPU has become a global brand that focuses on the best way to improve the lives of the people at the grassroots in Nigeria.
He added that the annual world congress is a platform that provides the best opportunity for members of the OPU to cater to the needs of the people, serving as a big catalyst for bonding and networking of members.
Iba Adams said the dinner was a usual tradition organized to light up the spirit of the delegates.
He said, “The dinner is to appreciate God for the success of the world congress. It is also for the delegates to be happy and enjoy themselves.
“However, there is need to tell our guests about OPU, a diaspora Yoruba socio-cultural organization that is presently in 102 countries.
“OPU’s efforts has been very impressive, both in Nigeria or in the diaspora, especially, with the way the organization has been impacting the lives of the people at the grassroots.”
Oyo State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr Wasiu Olatunbosun, eulogized Iba Adams’ passion for the promotion of Yoruba culture and tradition.
He said the OPU would continue to be the pride of Yoruba race across the world.
His counterparts from the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Inclusion, Mrs Toyin Balogun in her remarks emphasized the need to address the cultural deficits in Yoruba land.
She highlighted the importance of promoting Yoruba language, saying the language remains the best tool for cultural integration and growth.
While expressing delight at the event, President General, Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), Mr Sulaimon Ajewole stated that OPU has embarked on cultural redemption journey, insisting that Yoruba history will be kind to Iba Gani Adams and all members of the OPU.
“I believe strongly that OPU has come to stay and I assure you all that Yoruba his will be kind to you as continue to promote the culture and tradition”, he noted.
Other prominent dignitaries that attended the dinner include; Chief Adegboyega Sanni, Mogaji Akinade, Coordinator Ibadan Compound Peace Initiative, Engineer Tunde Tolase, Air Vice Marshall Tunde Awoyoola (Rtd), Gen Azeez Adegoye (Rtd), Oyo State ALGON Chairman, Sikiru Sanda, Balogun Gafar Ojetola, directors from the Oyo State Ministry of Culture and Tourism, Chief Mrs.Omolara Farounbi, Yeye Mayegun Ekotedo, Ibadan land,
Others were Oosi Aareonakakanfo of Yorubaland, Gani Balogun, Chief Gboyega Adejumo, Gbonka Aareonakakanfo of Yorubaland, Hon Ademola Ige Bameeto Aare Onakakanfo of Yoruba land and Chairman, Oyo State Local Government Staff Pension Board.
Mogaji Kunle Shodeinde, Hon Ademola Solalu and all delegates of OPU, all OPC NEC and NCC among others.
