President Tinubu confers GCON on Awujale at 90
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu awarded the Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona, with the Grand Commander of the Order of Niger (GCON) during the monarch’s 90th birthday celebration. The announcement was made at the Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago-Iwoye, during the commissioning of the Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona School of Governance Studies and presentation of the book “Reinventing Governance in Nigeria: The Oba (Dr.) Sikiru Kayode Adetona Model.”
President Tinubu, represented by Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima, highlighted the monarch’s significant contributions to nation-building and humanity, especially in the education sector. He praised Oba Adetona’s unwavering character and commitment to justice, acknowledging his role in the restoration of democratic governance in Nigeria.
Describing the monarch as a visionary leader, Tinubu announced that the Oba Sikiru Adetona School of Governance Studies would be managed by the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, Jos.
Governor Abiodun praises Oba Adetona
Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun lauded Oba Adetona as a living legend whose reign has brought pride to Ijebuland and the entire state. He emphasized the monarch’s dedication to governance and education, citing the establishment of the Oba Sikiru Adetona Professorial Chair in Governance at Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU), Ago-Iwoye, which led to the creation of the Oba Sikiru Adetona School of Governance.
Abiodun commended Oba Adetona’s efforts in poverty eradication through initiatives like the Ijebu Development Board. The Pro-Chancellor of the University, Prof. Toyin Ashiru, emphasized the School of Governance’s role in fostering discussions on governance, leadership, and public service.
The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Ayodeji Agboola, highlighted Oba Adetona’s contributions to the school’s development and expressed commitment to achieving excellence in governance and leadership.
Changing Nigeria’s Governance Narrative
In a lecture titled “Changing Nigeria’s Governance Narrative,” Prof. Akinsola Agagu, holder of the Oba (Dr.) Sikiru Kayode Adetona Professorial Chair, discussed Nigeria’s governance challenges. He emphasized the need for public-spirited individuals in leadership positions with values like patriotism, transparency, and accountability exemplified by Oba Sikiru Adetona.
Oba Adetona expressed gratitude for the support and honor, praying for peace in families, the state, and the country.