The event, held in Abeokuta on Monday, brought together notable dignitaries, including the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor of Ogun State on Inter-Ethnic Affairs, Prince Hadi Sani and His Royal Majesty, Alayeluwa Oba Amb. Saheed Balogun Agbaje (Agbajelola I), the Olu of Ilupeju Oke-Odo Gbagura Kingdom.
The get together featured vibrant music displays by Sabo youth, cultural presentations, and an award ceremony honouring key contributors to the development and peace of the Sabo community.
Prince Hadi Sani, a staunch advocate for inter-ethnic harmony, was among the honorees, receiving recognition for his continuous contributions to fostering peace in the region.
In his acceptance speech, Hadi Sani emphasized the importance of maintaining local relevance while achieving broader success.
“It is quite difficult to keep your local relevance while climbing the ladder of greatness. I am glad my childhood community remains firm with me, acknowledging my contributions toward Sabo Stayte development and Ogun State at large,” he said.
The chairman of the 2024 planning committee, Surajudeen Ibrahim, popularly known as Suri, while delivering his speech, thanking God and the community for their support.
He highlighted the achievements of the administration, including a recently commissioned borehole project that was facilitated by the committee to address water challenges in the community.
Surajudeen also expressed his gratitude to various stakeholders, including His Royal Majesty, Oba Saheed Balogun Agbaje, and the Seriki Sabo of Abeokuta, His Royal Highness Hasaan Ibrahim Hassan.
He commended the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Sabo Police Division, Mr. Yakub Ahmed, for his unwavering security support, which has ensured peace in the community.
“As an advocate of peace and good leadership, I ensured peaceful coexistence, harmony, and unity among our teeming youths and communities. With the support of our respected DPO, I can proudly say that the Sabo Stayte community has been calm, peaceful, and free from social menaces,” he stated.
The chairman also reflected on his administration’s innovative initiatives, such as organizing the first-ever business exhibition and trade fair in the community, which facilitated networking and promoted local businesses.
In an emotional moment, Surajudeen dedicated the successes of his tenure to his late brother, Ibrahim Nosiru, who he described as a source of inspiration.
He also took the opportunity to publicly appreciate his wife for her unwavering support throughout his administration.
The Chairman expressed gratitude for the trust and confidence placed in him to lead the community, pledging continued support for initiatives that foster unity and development.
List of Awardees includes:
• Nasuram (Boss Lady) – Female Entrepreneur of the Year
• Sotayo Abiodun (CEO, Kings Hotel & Suites) – Male Entrepreneur of the Year
• Gbenga Samuel (Drash) – Sabo Philanthropist of the Year
• Tunde Bayewunmi – Sabo Diaspora Personality of the Year
• Barr. Habeeb Whyte – Sabo Most Influential Youth
• Prince Hadi Sani – Peace Ambassador of the Year
• Ade Bende – Special Guest of Honor
• SP Ahmed Yakubu (DPO, Ilupeju/Sabo Division) – Award of Honor
Other Honorees
Additional outstanding individuals were also recognized for their contributions to the development and progress of the Sabo community.
