Leadership Support: Governor Abiodun Backs Chief Olasonde Oduwaye As New Iyaloja General Of Remo Land

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has appealed to Iyaloja Generals across the state to lend their support to the newly appointed Iyaloja General of Remo Land, Chief (Mrs.) Abosede Olasonde Oduwaye, emphasizing the importance of collective progress for all market women in the region. During the installation ceremony held on April 11th, 2025, at the Multipurpose Hall of Akarigbo Palace in Sagamu, Governor Abiodun, represented by his deputy, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyede, highlighted the potential benefits of solidarity among market leaders. “I call on other fellow Iyaloja Generals from Ijebu, Egba, and Yewa Divisions to support her leadership and collaborate for the advancement of all market women in Ogun State. Together, we can achieve significant progress,” he stated.

The governor praised Chief (Mrs.) Oduwaye for her exemplary leadership and unwavering commitment to her community. “Today, we honor a remarkable woman whose life embodies service and dedication. Chief (Mrs.) Olasonde Oduwaye is not only a leader of traders but also a fashion design pioneer, a mentor for upcoming artisans, and an advocate for local market development.”

He acknowledged the crucial role of market women in the state’s economy and emphasized the government’s collaborative efforts in initiatives such as the “Okowo Dapo” program, which has provided multiple rounds of grants to empower women. “We have also worked with agencies like OSAMCA to enhance financial inclusion,” he added.

His Royal Majesty, Oba (Dr.) Babatunde Adewale Ajayi, the Akarigbo and Paramount Ruler of Remo Land, conferred the title of Iyaloja of Remo Land on Chief (Mrs.) Oduwaye. He urged her to refine her leadership skills by fostering good relationships with other Iyaloja Generals in the region and ensuring harmony among all market women within her jurisdiction. He concluded with prayers for her long life, health, and wisdom in leadership.

The Ogun State Iyaloja General extended warm congratulations to Chief Olasonde Oduwaye, the newly installed Iyaloja of Remo Land, and encouraged her to foster strong relationships with Iyaloja Generals in other local government areas within Remo Land. Given the expanded jurisdiction beyond Sagamu, the Iyaloja General emphasized the importance of collaboration and unity. She offered prayers for Chief Oduwaye’s success, longevity, and good health, enabling her to lead effectively and live a fulfilling life.

In her inaugural address, Chief (Mrs.) Oduwaye expressed gratitude for the support from Governor Abiodun, the First Lady, and other dignitaries, reflecting on the collaborative spirit that made her installation a success.

Following the ceremony, her son, Professor Leke Oduwaye, a noted architect and former Dean at the University of Lagos, praised his mother’s leadership qualities. He characterized her rise to the position as a natural progression due to her dedication to the needs of market women and her honest approach to leadership. “She has always prioritized the well-being of others over personal gain,” he noted while wishing her divine health and longevity in her new role.

The ceremony was graced by numerous prominent figures from Ogun State, including Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun, the wife of the Ogun State Governor, and Otunba Gbenga Daniel, the former Governor and current Senator representing the Ogun East Senatorial District.

Among the distinguished attendees were Hon. Adijat Motunrayo Adeleye, the Honorable Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development in Ogun State, as well as Rt. Hon. Muyiwa Oladipo, the former Speaker of the Ogun State House of Assembly and a two-term commissioner.

Also in attendance were Hon. Funmilayo Efuwape, the Hon. Commissioner for Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs, and Mr. Ola Oresanya, the Commissioner for Environment. Chief Mrs. Ayotunde Lawal, the Special Adviser on Women Affairs, was also present.

The event featured significant community leaders, including Asiwaju Solomon Kayode Onafowokan, the Asiwaju of Remo Land, and various traditional rulers such as the Alakenne of Ikenne-Remo, the Onirolu of Irolu-Remo, the Onijoku of Ijoku Sagamu, HRH Oba (Engr.) Stephen Adewale Jibodu, and the Oniraniken of Iraniken, alongside many other notable personalities.