By Our Correspondent
The Secretary of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ogun State Council, Comrade Bunmi Adigun, has congratulated the Kurùnmí of Ìjàyè-Ègbáland, Aare (Prof.) Láí Lábodé, on the occasion of his first anniversary on the traditional stool, describing his reign as one marked by purposeful leadership, remarkable transformation, and renewed hope for the ancient town.
In a congratulatory message made available to journalists, Adigun, who identified himself as a proud son of Ìjàyè with ancestral roots from the Oladosu Compound on his paternal side and the Anigbio Compound on his maternal side, commended the traditional ruler for his outstanding contributions to the growth and development of the community within just one year of ascending the revered stool.
According to him, the monarch's first year in office has been characterised by visionary leadership, unity, inclusiveness and an unwavering commitment to the advancement of Ìjàyè-Ègbáland.
He noted that the anniversary represents not only a celebration of one year on the throne but also a reflection of impactful service and a leadership style that has continued to inspire confidence among the people at home and in the diaspora.
"Within one year, Kabiyesi has redefined traditional leadership through remarkable transformation, community development and the promotion of peace and unity. Under his reign, Ìjàyè has witnessed renewed hope, greater visibility and a resurgence of pride among its sons and daughters across the world," Adigun stated.
He further observed that the monarch has elevated the profile of the ancient town beyond where he met it, positioning Ìjàyè as a community of excellence, cultural pride and immense promise.
The NUJ Secretary expressed pride in witnessing the steady progress recorded under the monarch's administration, noting that his accessibility, wisdom and dedication to preserving the rich cultural heritage of the people while embracing modern development have earned him admiration across Egbaland and beyond.
"As someone whose paternal and maternal heritage is firmly rooted in Ìjàyè, I have watched with immense pride as Kabiyesi's administration continues to inspire confidence and attract meaningful development to our community.
"His commitment to justice, inclusiveness and the welfare of the people has further strengthened the bond among sons and daughters of Ìjàyè, irrespective of where they reside," he added.
Speaking from the perspective of the journalism profession, Adigun stressed that responsible leadership thrives on truth, dialogue and engagement, values he said have been consistently demonstrated during the monarch's reign.
"As journalists, we appreciate leaders who recognise the importance of truth, constructive dialogue and community engagement. The reign of Aare (Prof.) Láí Lábodé has reflected these virtues by fostering peace, transparency, inclusiveness and a strong sense of belonging among the people," he said.
He prayed that the palace would continue to serve as a symbol of justice, unity and enduring prosperity, while asking God to grant the monarch sound health, divine wisdom, long life and many more fruitful years on the throne.
Adigun also expressed optimism that the coming years of the monarch's reign would usher in greater peace, accelerated development and lasting glory for Ìjàyè-Ègbáland.
He concluded by extending warm congratulations to the revered traditional ruler, describing his first anniversary as a milestone worthy of celebration and thanksgiving.
"Congratulations once again to our revered father, Aare (Prof.) Láí Lábodé, the Kurùnmí of Ìjàyè-Ègbáland, on this memorable first anniversary. May the Almighty continue to strengthen and guide you as your reign ushers in greater peace, unprecedented development and enduring prosperity for our beloved community."
