Idanre Development Assembly honours NNPC chairman, others, as Aiyedatiwa praises Akinyelure’s Selfless Service

In recognition of the selfless services and contributions of some indigenes of Idanre Kingdom, the most viable umbrella body in the ancient town, Idanre Development Assembly (IDA) has conferred prestigious award on the Chairman of NNPC, Chief Pius Akinyelure among others.

The investiture was held at the Olofin Grammar School Hall, Idanre on Saturday, 6th July, 2024 where dignitaries across Nigeria came in their numbers to witness the history making event.

Other distinguished individuals who were honoured at the event included Late Chief Gabriel Akin Deko (posthumous award), Late Prince Afolabi Ayinuola (posthumous award), Retired Honorable Justice Sunday Akintan (antemortem award), and Chief Mrs. Omolara Ogomudia (antemortem award).

In his welcome address, the President General of Idanre Development Assembly (IDA), Chief Dr Anthony Omolola said the five indigenes of the town selected for the prestigious honour have contributed their quotas to the general development of Idanre Kingdom.

Hid words:” Our IDA Idanre Honours Award will henceforth be a yearly event in order to recognize and celebrate those that have contributed and are contributing to the development of our kingdom”.

He highlighted potentials and resources available in the ancient town to include agriculture, timber production, tourism among others that stand Idanre out in Ondo State.

The President General lamented poor infrastructure, neglect of tourism development, boundary conflict, lack of tertiary institutions among others as part of challenges facing Idanre that need urgent attention of government.

He officially announce the formation of Idanre Development Assembly Foundation (IDAF) to be chaired by Chief Sir Pius Oluwole Akinyelure as an arm of Idanre Development Assembly.

While thanking all Makanres both at home and diaspora for their cooperation, sacrifices and commitment towards the successful hosting of the event, he urged all sons and daughters of Idanre to join forces to transform the town.

Speaking, Ondo State Governor, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, praised Chief Pius Akinyelure as a man of honour who has selflessly served humanity in various capacities without seeking anything in return.

Governor Aiyedatiwa noted that such an honour is rare and bestowed only because the people of Idanre recognize Chief Akinyelure’s worth and the many impacts he has made at local and national levels.

Stressing that Akinyelure’s legacy will be remembered for many years to come, the Governor praised his humanitarian services, noting that the award serves as a lesson to everyone to serve their community, state, and nation selflessly.

In his remarks, the Owa of Idanre, Oba Frederick Adegunle Aroloye, commended the awardees for their immeasurable contributions to the development of Idanre land.

Chatting with the PATH, the Secretary General of IDA, Prof Ropo Akinfala appealed to all indigenes of Idanre to always contribute their best quotas to Idanre development saying East or West, home is the best.

The Commissioner for Water Resources, Hygiene and Sanitation, Mr. Sunday Akinwalire, in his goodwill message, thanked the Governor for upgrading the status of the Obas in Idanre kingdom and his efforts to ensure the provision of water in the local government area.

In his response, Chief Pius Akinyelure, speaking on behalf of the other awardees, expressed his gratitude to the Idanre Development Assembly for finding them worthy of the honour.

Acknowledging the honour as a significant recognition of his efforts and contributions, Chief Akinyelure emphasized that it would serve as a powerful motivation for him to continue and increase his efforts, not only for the development of Idanre but also for the betterment of Nigeria as a whole.

He appealed to every son and daughter of Idanre to always prioritize the welfare of the community, saying the future and development of Idanre lies in the hands of all irrespective of political affiliation.

In attendance were the Deputy Governor, Dr.Olayide Adelami, Secretary to the State Government, Hon. Tayo Oluwatuyi, Chief of Staff, Prince Segun Omojuwa, Speaker, Ondo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Olamide Oladiji, members of the State Executive Council, the Osemawe of Ondo, Oba Victor Kiladejo, among others.

The GMD of NNPC and top enchelons of the Corporation used their presence to honour the Chairman of NNPC, Chief Pius Akinyelure.