PASTOR JAMES ADEKUNLE BAGS SOUTHWEST MOST OUTSTANDING LEADER IN PUBLIC ENLIGHTENMENT
Pastor James Adekunle, the Director of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Ondo State Directorate, has been honoured as the Southwest Most Outstanding Leader in Public Enlightenment.
The prestigious award was presented to him among many witnesses on Sunday, 23rd November 2025, at Bliss World Hotel, Ijapo, Akure, during a grand ceremony organized by South West Heralds Magazine.
Speaking with journalists shortly after receiving the honour, Pastor Adekunle expressed heartfelt gratitude, describing the recognition as an unexpected surprise.
He noted that the award would further inspire him to intensify his contributions to the development of Ondo State and Nigeria, particularly in the area of orientation and public enlightenment.
He commended the organizers of the event and urged all public officers across Nigeria to remain consistent and dedicated in their service to God and humanity.
Pastor Adekunle also appreciated his team and family for their unwavering support, acknowledging that their encouragement made the achievement possible.
Delivering goodwill remarks, Dr. Jide Martins Adewinle, FCA, FCIB, Federal Commissioner and Chairman, Finance and General Purpose Committee, South West Development Commission, lauded the Ondo State Government under the leadership of Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa for what he described as a promising beginning.
He called on the people of Ondo State to support the administration and prayed for continued progress, assuring that unprecedented development would soon be visible across the state.
Earlier, in a thought-provoking lecture titled “The States vs The Citizens: The Paradox of Increased Federal Allocations,” Otunba (Barr.) Yemi Adetoyinbo analyzed the revenue allocations received by various Nigerian states and how they have—or have not—been used to improve citizens’ welfare. He urged stakeholders at all levels to ensure that public resources are managed responsibly for the development of the nation.
In his welcome address, the Publisher of South West Heralds Magazine, Otunba Moses Oluwatayo Adu, expressed profound gratitude to God for preserving everyone despite the challenges of the times. He described the event as an epoch-making moment and a significant milestone as the magazine marked its 7th anniversary.
Otunba Adu emphasized that each edition of the magazine represents an opportunity to contribute to national development and honour deserving Nigerians. He noted that this year’s lecture was purposefully chosen to interrogate why increased federal allocations have not resulted in improved living conditions in many states, adding that such conversations promote transparency, accountability, and responsible leadership.
He further expressed appreciation to exemplary men and women recognized as Southwest Celebrated Icons, whose character and contributions earned them distinguished honour. He extended gratitude to the Governor and Deputy Governor of Ondo State, the chairman of the occasion Dr. Adewinle, the Southwest Heralds team, the media community, their royal father—the Iralepo of Isinkan, and his supportive family for their contributions to the magazine’s continued growth.