…raises funds for scholarship support in Ijebu-Ode

The Ijebu Professional Excellence Foundation (IPEF) held its 2025 Annual Merit Awards Ceremony yesterday at A5 Events & Hall in Ijebu-Ode, drawing an impressive audience of professionals, community leaders, and supporters of the Foundation’s mission.

The ceremony, known for celebrating integrity and exceptional service, reaffirmed IPEF’s commitment to promoting educational advancement and ethical leadership across the Ijebu community and beyond.

Chairman of the Day, Otunba Barr. Akin Doherty, FCA, delivered an inspiring charge to the honourees, urging them to uphold the values of the IPEF Governing Council. He stressed that excellence must be paired with responsibility, particularly in a period when the nation requires stronger professional leadership.

According to him, “This recognition is not a destination; it is a call to uphold the ideals of our heritage and to support the younger generation striving for excellence.”

In his welcome address, Prince Barr. Jamiu Adio Saka, Chairman of the Governing Council, expressed gratitude for Otunba Doherty’s long-standing support for the Foundation. He noted that IPEF continues to flourish because of leaders who remain committed to empowering aspiring professionals. He encouraged the newly decorated honourees to invest their expertise and influence in strengthening the Foundation’s scholarship and mentorship programmes.

In his remarks, the Executive Secretary of IPEF, Mr. Omoniyi Kaka, reaffirmed the Foundation’s commitment to growth and institutional development. He pledged to work towards increasing the representation of women within the Governing Council, emphasising that gender inclusivity remains essential to broadening the organisation’s impact. According to him, ensuring greater female participation will help the Foundation reflect the diversity and potential of the wider community.

This year’s awardees included Otunba Segun Timi, Prof. Oluwaseun Omotayo, Prof. Lanre Banjo, Hon. Lanre Odubote, Otunba Yomi Odunowo, Otunba Ganiyu Olusegun Abiru, Comrade Niyi Osoba, Prince Kayode Alakija, Hon. Sulaimon Olanrewaju Kazeem (Chairman, Ikorodu West LCDA), Otunba Dr. Fatai Olukoga, Lt. Col. Owolabi Balogun (Rtd.), and Kakanfo Adeniyi Oduwole—all recognised for their exceptional professional contributions and community leadership.

The event recorded a remarkable turnout, reflecting the growing influence of IPEF within Nigeria’s professional and civic circles. A key moment of the evening was the Foundation’s fundraising segment, which received strong support from guests and honourees. Proceeds will support scholarships for students pursuing professional qualifications, reinforcing IPEF’s mission to expand opportunities for young talents and nurture the next generation of ethical professionals.

One of the awardees remarked, “IPEF is shaping a future where professional excellence is not only celebrated but cultivated. This recognition inspires us to do more for the next generation.”

With renewed commitment from its partners and honourees, the Foundation is set to broaden its impact and further strengthen its legacy of excellence.