Egbaland’s Two Decades of Progress: Alake Oba Gbadebo Reflects on 20-Year Reign
The Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, Oba Dr. Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, has declared that his two-decade reign has ushered in a period of remarkable growth and unity for the Egba nation. Speaking at a press conference to mark his 20th Coronation Anniversary, the monarch detailed the significant strides made under his leadership.
A Foundation of Peace and Unity
Addressing attendees from the Throne Room of Ake Palace in Abeokuta, Oba Gbadebo identified peace and unity as the bedrock of Egbaland’s development. He painted a picture of a community transformed, noting that the strong sense of brotherhood and neighborliness enjoyed today was not as prevalent two decades ago.
“The only secret behind the many successes during my reign is God. He has been my helper over the years,” the monarch stated. “Twenty years ago, Egbaland was not as united as it is today. We now enjoy strong brotherhood and neighborliness among ourselves.”
Landmark Achievements in Education and Industry
Among the crowning achievements of his tenure, Oba Gbadebo enthusiastically highlighted the establishment of the Federal University of Medicine and Medical Sciences in Abeokuta. This milestone secured a unique distinction for the Ogun State capital.
“Abeokuta is the first state capital in Nigeria to have two federal universities, a development that occurred during my time as ruler,” he revealed. This educational boom is paralleled by an economic one, with the monarch pointing to a surge in multinational industries establishing a presence across Egbaland, fueling both physical and economic expansion.
Grassroots Development and New Infrastructure
To ensure development reaches every corner of his domain, Oba Gbadebo explained that his leadership has overseen an increase in the number of traditional rulers across villages. “Many of our villages are experiencing infrastructural development,” he added, bringing governance and progress closer to the people.
Looking to the future, the monarch announced the commencement of a new, modern Abeokuta City Hall. With the ancient Centenary Hall nearing a century of service, the new facility is designed to meet contemporary needs.
“We are planning to build a new city hall with a capacity for 1,000 people,” Oba Gbadebo said. “The site already has an ICT center and library constructed on the large parcel of land allocated for this project. This is one of the initiatives that will further boost Egbaland’s socioeconomic development.”
A Week-Long Celebration of a Legacy
The Central Planning Committee for the anniversary, chaired by High Chief Oluyinka Kufile, has organized a series of events from November 14th to November 19th. The festivities will commence with a special thanksgiving service at the Abeokuta Central Mosque in Kobiti.
The week will be punctuated by acts of communal support, including the presentation of bursaries and scholarships by the AG Leventis Foundation, Egba Indigenes Global Association, and Sina Luwoye Foundation. High Chief Kufile confirmed that no fewer than 200 students will benefit from these educational awards.
Further enriching the celebration, the anniversary will feature a medical outreach program expected to benefit approximately 1,000 people, the conferment of chieftaincy titles on deserving Egba sons and daughters, and a special coronation anniversary thanksgiving service at the Cathedral Church of St. Peter in Ake.
Reflecting on the monarch’s impact, High Chief Kufile said, “Egbaland has witnessed remarkable peace, unity, and development. His reign has fostered a renewed spirit of brotherhood among the Egba people and strengthened the bond between our traditional institutions and government.”
He concluded, “The last twenty years have seen steady progress in infrastructural renewal, social advancement, and cultural renaissance, a true testament to the Alake’s wisdom, dignity, and commitment to the welfare of his people.”
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