The Nigerian Books of Record (NBR) has inducted five eminent Nigerians resident in the diaspora into its prestigious Hall of Fame, in a landmark ceremony that celebrated national excellence, cultural heritage, and Nigeria’s growing global influence through its citizens abroad.

The historic event was held in Joga-Orile, Yewa North Local Government Area of Ogun State, at the palace of the Abepa of Joga-Orile, Oba Dr. Adeyemi Olanrewaju Adekeye (Lagori III). The ceremony drew a distinguished gathering of traditional rulers, national leaders, diaspora achievers, and cultural icons.

Adding colour and cultural depth to the occasion was a performance by legendary juju music icon, King Sunny Ade, whose presence underscored the royal and historic significance of the induction.

The five inductees — Chief Mrs. Moronke Faloyin-Badejo, Otunba Abiodun Badejo, Chief Taiwo Alli, Chief Kehinde Alli, and Chief Mrs. Omolola Alli — were honoured for decades of leadership, philanthropy, professional excellence, and sustained contributions to Nigeria’s development and international image, despite residing and working abroad.

Chief Mrs. Faloyin-Badejo, based in the United States, holds several revered matriarchal titles, including Iya-Oba of Joga-Orile, alongside senior traditional titles across Egbaland and Ibogunland. Otunba Abiodun Badejo, also U.S.-based, is the Chairman of Diaspora on Ethics and Values and is widely recognised for his advocacy for ethical leadership and institutional development.

Chief Taiwo Alli, a United Kingdom–based entrepreneur, is a prominent traditional leader with titles including Otunba Bobajiroro of Ibogun-Balogun in the Owu Kingdom, Baajiri of Joga-Orile, Otun Apagunpote of Egbaland, and Akinlagun of Kemta, Abeokuta. His twin brother, Chief Kehinde Alli, resident in the United States, holds titles such as Otunba Bobagunwa of Ibogun-Balogun, Baaloro of Joga-Orile, Otun Bobagunwa of Egbaland, and Akinrogun of Kemta.

Chief Mrs. Omolola Alli, a U.S.-based healthcare executive and psychiatric nursing specialist, was also recognised for her professional accomplishments and philanthropy. She holds influential female traditional titles, including Erelu Otunba Bobagunwa of Ibogun-Balogun, Erelu Baaloro of Joga-Orile, Erelu Otun Bobagunwa of Egbaland, and Erelu Akinrogun of Kemta.

Each inductee was formally admitted as a Member and Fellow of the Nigerian Books of Record and permanently enshrined in the Hall of Fame following the reading of detailed citations outlining their national and international impact. Their multiple traditional titles across Ogun State and Yorubaland highlighted the enduring connection between diaspora leadership and ancestral responsibility.

The ceremony attracted several notable dignitaries, including former President Olusegun Obasanjo, renowned business leader Princess Dr. Toyin Kolade, traditional rulers Oba Rotimi Mulero and Oba Dr. Olayinka Salako, as well as veteran actress Faustina Balogun, popularly known as Madam Saje.

Speaking at the event, the Director-General of the Nigerian Books of Record, Professor David Obongekong David, emphasised the importance of recognising Nigerians who lead with integrity and excellence beyond the country’s borders. He said Nigeria’s story now transcends geography, noting that many of the nation’s most impactful builders of ethics, institutions, and humanitarian values operate globally.

According to him, the mission of the Nigerian Books of Record is to document, honour, and preserve for history the achievements of Nigerians who uphold national values wherever they reside.

With the induction of the five diaspora veterans, the Nigerian Books of Record has further reinforced its role as the custodian of national excellence, affirming that Nigerian leadership continues to thrive across continents while remaining deeply rooted in cultural identity, moral authority, and commitment to home.