By Adeyinka Adeniran
The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, President General, Central Council of Ibadan Indigene (CCII), Chief Ajeniyi Ajewole, the Chairman, 2025 Ibadan Cultural Festival Planning Committee, also known as Ibadan week, Mr Abiola Alli, the Vice-Chancellor, Dominion University, Professor Abel Olorunnisola were among dignitaries in attendance as the apex social cultural groups in Ibadan, CCII honoured, the Presiding Bishop, Victory International Church, Rehoboth Cathedral, Oluyole, Ibadan with the Champion of Ibadan Development Award.
The presentation ceremony which took place at the Wonder city, Opposite Dominion University, Lagos-Ibadan, Express Way, was in recognition of Adelakun’s significant contributions to the city’s growth and progress.
The event highlighted the cleric’s impact on education, religious leadership, and community development, with speakers commending his dedication to Ibadan’s advancement.
The Olubadan was represented at the event by the Chaplain, Olubadan Palace, Pastor Olusoji Adediji.
President-General, CCII, Chief Ajewole who is also the Aare Atunluse of Ibadanland, led other executives members of the Council to present the honor on Bishop Adelakun.
According to the PG CCII who decorates the awardede and decorated him with garland, Bishop Adelakun, the Founder of Dominion University, has played a crucial role in Ibadan’s progress through education, youth empowerment, and community service, adding that his initiatives extend beyond the religious sector, as he has provided scholarships, mentored young leaders, and supported socio-economic development projects.
In his remarks before the decoration, Alli praised the bishop’s contributions saying “Bishop Adelakun has uplifted Ibadan and its people. Through his church, schools, and university, he has provided opportunities for many. CCII is proud to recognize individuals who have made remarkable contributions to our land, and today, we celebrate one of them.”
He reaffirmed CCII’s commitment to honouring those who dedicate their lives to Ibadan’s growth.
The represented of the Olubadan, Pastor Adediji also lauded Bishop Adelakun’s dedication to spiritual and societal development, acknowledging his role in fostering education, leadership, and economic growth.
He said, “Bishop Adelakun is a true believe and he has not only provided spiritual guidance but has also built institutions that will serve generations to come. His work stands as a model of selfless service to Ibadan.”
He urged religious and community leaders to emulate the bishop’s commitment to making a tangible impact beyond the pulpit.
Also speaking, the Vice-Chancellor, Dominion University, Professor Olorunnisola also commended Bishop Adelakun’s passion for education and community service.
He said “Your dedication has inspired many, and we are grateful for the lasting impact you continue to make.”
He emphasized the bishop’s vision of ensuring access to quality education for students from diverse backgrounds.
Also, a cleric, Pastor Niyi Dahunsi described Bishop Adelakun as a leader whose influence transcends the church, saying, “his impact touches lives and transforms society. His love for God and for people is evident in his commitment to social responsibility and humanitarian efforts.”
In his acceptance speech, Bishop Adelakun expressed gratitude to CCII for the recognition, describing it as an encouragement to continue contributing to Ibadan’s growth.
He attributed his achievements to God’s grace and the collective support of individuals and institutions.
“This honour is not mine alone; it belongs to God and to everyone who has contributed to Ibadan’s development in one way or another”, he said.
He further emphasized the importance of patience and unwavering faith in God, acknowledging that many people face challenges which may seem overwhelming, but encouraged them not to lose hope.
According to him, success and progress often take time, and those who remain patient and trust in God’s plan will eventually see positive change.
“No matter how difficult things may seem, do not lose faith. Challenges are part of life, but God remains faithful. If you hold on, things will turn around. People must learn to stay steadfast in their beliefs, work hard, and trust that better days will come, regardless of present difficulties”, he added.
The event featured cultural performances, goodwill messages, and reflections on Bishop Adelakun’s achievements. Attendees praised his unwavering dedication to Ibadan’s progress, reaffirming his legacy as a visionary leader committed to the city’s development.
