..as wife bags Olori of the Year award in Ondo State

..urges Ondo residents to complement government’s developmental efforts

The wife of the Olubaka of Oka-Akoko in Akoko South-West Local Government Area of Ondo State, Olori Adejumoke Adeleye, has been honoured with the prestigious Olori of the Year award (Queen of the Year) by Sunshine Standard Magazine in recognition of her virtues, vision, and service to humanity.

The award was conferred on her on Sunday, March 1, 2026, during a colourful ceremony attended by dignitaries and well-wishers from across Ondo State. The event was held at the OSDPC Multipurpose Hall, Ijapo, Akure.

Speaking at the event as Royal Father of the Day, the Olubaka of Oka Kingdom, Oba Yusuf Adebori Adeleye, OON, COP, expressed profound joy and gratitude over the honour bestowed on his wife.

The monarch, who was represented by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation and Akogun of Oka-Akoko,  Hon. Chief Gbenga Omole, described the recognition as not only personal to the Olori but also a celebration of the entire Oka Kingdom, noting that by honouring her, the organisers had honoured the people of the kingdom.

“This recognition is not just personal; it is communal. It reflects the values, traditions, and aspirations of our people,” he said.

The royal father used the occasion to highlight the indispensable role of women in societal development, describing them as pillars of the home, architects of peace, and nurturers of growth. He stressed that no society can achieve meaningful progress without giving due attention to the contributions of women.

“As the African proverb says, ‘If you educate a man, you educate an individual; but if you educate a woman, you educate a nation,’” he said.

According to His Imperial Majesty, women’s wisdom, resilience, and enterprise remain the bedrock of development.

He urged stakeholders to continue to empower women and create more opportunities for them to contribute meaningfully to governance and nation-building.

He emphasised that “society cannot realise its developmental dreams without giving due attention to the unique and brilliant contributions of women”, affirming that their wisdom, resilience, and enterprise are the bedrock of progress.

“We must continue to appreciate them, empower them, and create platforms for them to contribute their brilliant efforts,” he added.

The monarch also advocated increased participation of women in leadership positions across Ondo State and Nigeria, maintaining that the nation cannot afford to sideline half of its population in the quest for development.

He commended the organisers, Sunshine Standard Magazine, for promoting excellence and celebrating individuals who contribute positively to society.

He equally urged media practitioners in the state to uphold professional ethics, describing the press as a vital pillar of democracy and development.

The event also featured a public lecture themed “Building the Ondo State of Tomorrow: Innovation, Enterprise, and Good Governance,” which the monarch described as timely and inspiring.

He called on the people of Ondo State, particularly successful sons and daughters of the state, to complement the government’s efforts in driving development, emphasising that building a virile and prosperous state is a collective responsibility.

Earlier in his opening remarks, the organiser of the award, Mr. Oludaisi Adetarami, affirmed that the sterling qualities of Olori Adejumoke Adeleye—expressed through elegance, charity, and visionary initiatives—set her apart among her peers in the state.

According to him, Olori Adeleye has distinguished herself through initiatives such as her annual Christmas carols and children’s funfair party, touching the lives of many vulnerable children in Oka Kingdom and uplifting the ancient town.

In his words: “Olori Adejumoke Adeleye shines as a paragon of grace, wisdom, and compassion. Her harmonious interfaith marriage exemplifies unity, love, and respect.

“Enterprising, prayerful, and cerebral, Olori Adejumoke is a beacon of hope and a role model for generations. Her legacy of service, faith, and humanity continues to catalyse peace, progress, and development. A jewel of royalty and a blessing to all, she is truly a Queen for all seasons whose impact will inspire for years to come.”

Responding to the honour, Olori Adejumoke Adeleye described the award as unexpected, huge, and gratifying, saying that being recognised as Olori of the Year among hundreds of queens in Ondo State is a call to do more in promoting humanity.

Appreciating the organisers for the gesture, she dedicated the award to her late father, who instilled in her the virtue of service to humanity, and to the Olubaka of Oka-Akoko Kingdom for his continuous support.