All is set for the 2025 edition of Igbogbo Day, an annual community-wide celebration of the rich cultural heritage of Igbogbo Kingdom in Igbogbo-Baiyeku LCDA.
This follows the official unveiling of thr line-up of activities for the 10-Day Celebration.
The Igbogbo Day Planning Committee, led by Chairman Alh. Sheriff Jinadu, outlined plans for the upcoming celebration, focusing on education and community development at the Aafin Adeboruwa of Igbogbo on Thursday, 16th October.
The committee Chairman also disclosed that it has partnered with notable individuals and organizations to provide career guidance, empowerment programs, and medical services.
Jinadu disclosed that popular nollywood actress, Funke Akindele, is among other accomplished individuals who will inspire Igbogbo youths and provide career guidance and counseling during this year’s event.
Alh. Sheriff Jinadu noted that while the previous committee focused on building the Igbogbo Civic Center, this year’s committee aims to channel resources towards educational support and human capacity development for children and youths in Igbogbo
He further stressed that a percentage of funds raised during the 10-day program would be allocated to educational development.
He further revealed that the focus of this year’s celebration was the outcome of feedback and consensus from notable individuals, including Asiwaju Olorunfumi Bashorun, Sen. Kingsley Adeseye Ogunlewe and Prince Segun Ogunlewe, who have pledged their individual support on the need for computer education and digital literacy among students.
He said the Igbogbo Day celebration would take place from October to October 30th. He highlighted partnerships with civil servants, who would wear Igbogbo Day uniforms, and the barbers association, which volunteered to provide services. Additionally, he mentioned an empowerment program for new graduates in welding, tiling, phone engineering, and tailoring, with a ballot system to select.
Mr. Toheeb Sanusi, Secretary of the Igbogbo Day Planning Committee, elaborated on the Career Day program. He stated that the objective is to counsel students on career choices, leveraging role models like Funke Akindele, a lawyer and artist, and Coach Wale, an educationist and seasoned lecturer.
He explained that the program targets SS3 students, inviting 10 students from each school to attend lectures and receive career guidance. The students would then return to their schools to educate their peers. Additionally, the committee would organize a medical session with free check-ups and minor surgery.
Mr. Oluwafemi Dankuwo commended the planning committee for their commitment to the Igbogbo Day celebration. He stated that the committee had shown dedication and overcome challenges, which brought them to the program.
He commended the committee for adding new innovations to the celebration, making it more impressive.
He implored the planning committee to remain committed to ensuring the success of the 2025 Igbogbo Day celebration while expressing hope that it would be more successful than previous ones.
A major highlight of the event was the formal unveiling of the official Ankara fabric for the annual celebration which is sold for 6,000 Naira per 6 yards. The celebration holds from October 20th to 30th.
The unveiling was performed by Chief Tajudeen Alade Onasanya, the Odofin of Igbogbo Kingdom, on behalf of the Adeboruwa, amidst applause from community leaders and well-wishers.
In his brief remarks, Alhaji Lateef Oduntan, Secretary-General of the Igbogbo Development Association (IDEA), commended the committee for its innovation and revealed plans to commence the construction of the Igbogbo Civic Centre on a three-acre site, alongside state-approved High and Magistrate Courts and a fire service centre.
Chief Jelili Ayangade, representing the Adeboruwa of Igbogbo Kingdom, Oba Semiudeen Orimadegun Kasali, conveyed royal blessings and reaffirmed the monarch’s delight at the committee’s commitment to sustaining the kingdom’s glory.
