Supare Akure Branch Rolls Out Drums for Engr. Johnson Alabi at Grand Civic Reception
The Supare Development Association (SDA), Akure Branch, on Friday, March 20, 2026, staged a colourful and well-attended civic reception in honour of one of its illustrious sons, Hon. Engr. Dr. Johnson Jaiyeola Alabi, the Ondo State Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources. The memorable event, held at St. James Mega School, Irowo, Akure, drew a gathering of eminent personalities, community leaders, and well-wishers who came to celebrate a man widely described as a “round peg in a round hole.”
In his welcome address, Chairman of the Planning Committee, Alhaji Dada Adeleke Jimoh, FCNA, described the occasion as a significant milestone in the celebrant’s distinguished career. He commended Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa for appointing Engr. Alabi into his cabinet, noting that his wealth of experience and expertise in the energy sector would undoubtedly bring remarkable progress to Ondo State. He expressed confidence in the Commissioner’s leadership, particularly in transforming the state’s power sector, while also appreciating sponsors, the leadership of SDA, and all contributors for making the event a success.
Also speaking, the Chairman of SDA Akure Branch, Chief Adesoji Ben Okedusi, described the day as historic for the people of Supare, fondly called “Small London.” He applauded Governor Aiyedatiwa for recognizing excellence and merit in appointing Engr. Alabi, noting that the honour has brought pride and prestige to the entire Supare community. He further highlighted the Commissioner’s early achievements, especially the impactful Ayedatiwa Metering Initiative, which has significantly reduced estimated billing and brought relief to residents across the state.
Chief Okedusi used the opportunity to appreciate the Governor for also appointing other sons of Supare, including Pharm. Dr. Samuel Adekola, while appealing for more opportunities for indigenes of the community to serve in government. He also drew attention to pressing developmental needs in Supare, including improved security, completion of road projects, resolution of boundary disputes, and urgent intervention on the deteriorating Eduwa Bridge to avert possible disaster.
In his remarks, the Chairman of Ondo State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Rt. Hon. Victor Olabimtan, described Engr. Alabi as a pride to Supare, Ondo State, and Nigeria at large. He praised his exemplary leadership, intellectual depth, and remarkable contributions to the energy sector, expressing optimism that he would continue to attain greater heights in life and service.
Similarly, the Special Assistant to the Governor on Forestry, Hon. Chris Olorunfemi, extolled Engr. Alabi as a man of virtue and a shining example of diligence and dedication. He urged younger generations to emulate his resilience, commitment, and impactful lifestyle, noting that his influence has extended far beyond his immediate community.
The event witnessed the presence of several dignitaries, including Otunba Mike Adeyanju, Hon. Bode Awe, Hon. Chris Olorunfemi, Babamogba Veronica Bukola, Mrs. Alasake Ladun, Mrs. Tomisin Alabi, Hon. David Ajobiewe, among others, all of whom joined in celebrating a distinguished son whose service continues to inspire pride and hope for a greater Ondo State.