President Bola Ahmed Tinubu conferred the distinguished title of the Grand Commander of the Order of Niger (GCON) on the revered Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona, in celebration of the monarch’s 90th birthday.
The momentous announcement took place at the Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago-Iwoye, during the inauguration of the Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona School of Governance Studies and the launch of the book titled “Reinventing Governance in Nigeria: The Oba (Dr.) Sikiru Kayode Adetona Model.”
Representing President Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima conveyed the profound recognition, highlighting Oba Adetona’s invaluable contributions to nation-building and his exemplary service to humanity.
“In recognition of Kabiyesi Adetona’s distinguished service to our nation and humanity, I hereby confer upon him the prestigious Grand Commander of the Order of Niger (GCON),” stated President Tinubu.
Furthermore, President Tinubu disclosed that the esteemed Oba Sikiru Adetona School of Governance Studies would be entrusted to the esteemed National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, Jos, reflecting a commitment to advancing governance excellence.
Acknowledging Oba Adetona’s immense impact on education and national development, President Tinubu commended the monarch’s unwavering dedication and resolute stance against injustice, citing his pivotal role in the restoration of democratic governance in Nigeria.
Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State hailed Oba Adetona as a living legend, extolling his reign as a monumental success and a source of pride for Ijebuland and the entire state.
Emphasizing the monarch’s commitment to governance and education, Governor Abiodun highlighted the establishment of the Oba Sikiru Adetona Professorial Chair in Governance and the groundbreaking Oba Sikiru Adetona School of Governance, a pioneering institution in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Under Oba Adetona’s leadership, initiatives such as the Ijebu Development Board on poverty eradication have set a national benchmark, showcasing his enduring legacy of service and excellence.