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

The Olubaka of Oka-Akoko Kingdom in Akoko South-West Local Government Area of Ondo State, His Imperial Majesty Oba Yusuf Adebori Adeleye, OON, COP, has affirmed that no society can achieve meaningful progress without giving due attention to the contributions of women.

Speaking as the Royal Father of the Day at a public lecture and award ceremony organised by Sunshine Standard Magazine on Sunday 1st March, 2026 in Akure, where his wife, Olori Adejumoke bagged the Olori of the Year award, the monarch highlighted the indispensable role of women in societal development, describing them as pillars of the home, architects of peace, and nurturers of growth.

Represented by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation and Akogun of Oka-Akoko,  Hon. Chief Gbenga Omole, Oba Adeleye said women’s wisdom, resilience, and enterprise remain the bedrock of development.

“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.

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.