Oba Samuel Aliu Adegbehingbe Felicitates Hon. Sunday Ifedayo Abegunde on Installation as Asiwaju of Akure
In a moment suffused with grace, honor, and cultural pride, the Olumafon of Imafon, His Royal Majesty Oba Samuel Aliu Adegbehingbe, has extended his heartfelt congratulations to Hon. Sunday Ifedayo Abegunde, fondly known as ABENA, on his recent installation as the Asiwaju of Akure. The esteemed monarch praised Hon. Abegunde’s sterling record of service and leadership, describing the conferment as a befitting recognition of a man whose contributions to society have consistently echoed the highest ideals of integrity and progress.
Hon. Abegunde, the Executive Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), was officially decorated with the revered chieftaincy title by the Deji of Akure Kingdom, Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi, Odundun II, in a grand ceremony held on Friday, June 27, 2025. The occasion, marked by colorful traditional regalia, rhythmic drumming, and jubilant dances, drew dignitaries, community leaders, and indigenes from all walks of life, celebrating not only a personal honor but a collective triumph for Akureland.
In his congratulatory message, Oba Adegbehingbe lauded the vision and unwavering commitment Hon. Abegunde has shown throughout his public life, emphasizing how his new role as Asiwaju — a title symbolizing leadership, wisdom, and guardianship — is not only well deserved but also timely. “Hon. Abegunde’s ascendancy to this noble position is a reflection of the people’s trust in his stewardship and a clarion call to even greater service,” the monarch declared.
The title of Asiwaju, traditionally conferred upon individuals of remarkable foresight and community spirit, positions Hon. Abegunde as a torchbearer of development and unity in the Akure Kingdom. His record in public service, particularly in advancing infrastructural growth and youth empowerment through the NDDC, stands as a testament to the values the chieftaincy embodies. The Olumafon emphasized that such recognition serves to inspire future generations to embrace purposeful leadership rooted in cultural heritage.
As the sun sets on the celebratory weekend and the echoes of royal trumpets fade into memory, the people of Akure and beyond look ahead with optimism. With Hon. Abegunde now bearing the mantle of Asiwaju, and with the blessing of revered monarchs such as Oba Adegbehingbe, a new chapter of visionary leadership and cultural renaissance begins — one that promises to uplift the people and further enrich the storied legacy of Akureland.