Oba Olugbenle’s Second Coming As Chairman Of Ogun Obas Promises A Period Of Growth, Prosperity

Opinion:

BY ABU-SATAR HAMED

His Royal Majesty, Alayeluwa, Oba Kehinde Gbadewole Olugbenle MFR, FNIM, FNIVS, RSV., the Olu Of Ilaro and Paramount Ruler Of Yewaland, Ogun State, Nigeria, once again ascended to the prestigious position of Chairman of the Ogun State Council of Obas.

Oba Olugbenle’s second appointment reaffirms his esteemed stature among the traditional rulers of the state and underscores his unwavering commitment to serving his people and promoting unity and progress across Ogun State.

The momentous occasion took place on Tuesday, June 11, 2024, as Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun MFR, CON, inaugurated Oba Kehinde Olugbenle, acknowledging his exceptional leadership and dedication to the advancement of Yewaland.

Renowned for his remarkable achievements and unwavering commitment to progress, Oba Olugbenle’s visionary leadership has catalyzed significant transformation within Yewaland. His profound passion for the welfare and development of his people, both at home and abroad, underscores his illustrious reign.

Over the years, Oba Olugbenle, a stalwart of silent accomplishments, has leveraged his influence to spearhead numerous developmental initiatives for his community. His adept leadership and astute management of his domain exemplify excellence and serve as a beacon of inspiration for all.

Stepping into his new role as Chairman of the Ogun State Council of Obas, Oba Olugbenle is poised to harness his exemplary leadership qualities once again. Having previously held this esteemed position, his reappointment promises a continuation of his visionary stewardship.

Recalling his earlier appointment by former Governor of Ogun State, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, on Wednesday, October 12, 2016, Oba Olugbenle assumes the mantle of leadership following the tenure of the late Akarigbo of Remoland, Oba Dr. Adeniyi Sonariwo.

This rotation among the four Paramount Rulers in Ogun State adheres to the established Chiefs Laws of Ogun State.

As a gesture of solidarity, it is imperative that the Ogun State Obas rally behind their newly appointed Chairman, offering unwavering support to facilitate the effective administration of the Council.

With Oba Olugbenle’s wealth of knowledge and extensive networks, his leadership promises to usher in a period of unprecedented growth and prosperity for all.

Born on December 4, 1968, Oba Kehinde Olugbenle embarked on a remarkable educational odyssey that laid the foundation for his distinguished reign as a Paramount Ruler in Ogun State, Nigeria.

Oba Kehinde Olugbenle’s educational voyage commenced at the Methodist Primary School Oshodi, Lagos in 1972, where he embarked on his academic pursuits with zeal and determination. Later, alongside his twin brother – Pastor Taiwo Olugbenle, he became one of the pioneer students at the Anglican Grammar School, Ilaro in 1979, marking the inception of a promising academic trajectory.

Driven by a thirst for knowledge and excellence, Kabiyesi’s educational journey led him to the prestigious Yaba College of Technology, Lagos, where he pursued a degree in Estate Management. Graduating in 1990 as one of the top students in his cohort, he distinguished himself with academic prowess and dedication to his studies.

Eager to further expand his intellectual horizons, Oba Olugbenle pursued a Master’s degree in Housing Development and Management at the esteemed University of Ibadan, graduating in 2006 with distinction.

From humble beginnings to regal heights, Oba Kehinde Olugbenle’s educational journey epitomizes the pursuit of knowledge, excellence, and service, serving as an inspiration to all who aspire to greatness.

Oba Kehinde Olugbenle’s educational pursuits were complemented by practical experience gained during his National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) at United Bank for Africa Plc., Property Division, from 1990 to 1991.

Following his NYSC, he commenced his professional career as an Estate Surveyor at the renowned firm of P.K. Ojo & Co. (Estate Surveyors and Valuers), where he honed his expertise in the field.

In 1994, Oba Olugbenle embarked on a new chapter in his career journey, joining Akin Olawore & Co., one of the foremost estate firms in Nigeria. Through diligence and dedication, he ascended through the ranks to become the firm’s Managing Partner in 1998.

Undeterred by challenges and fueled by ambition, Oba Olugbenle ventured into the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, in 1998, where he established a branch of Akin Olawore & Co.

His entrepreneurial spirit and leadership acumen contributed to the firm’s growth and prominence in the FCT, solidifying its position as a leading Estate Surveying and Valuation firm.

In 2012, upon his ascension to the throne as a first-class monarch in Ogun State, Oba Olugbenle founded his own firm, Kehinde Olugbenle & Co., as Principal Partner. Under his guidance, the firm has flourished, embodying his vision for excellence and service to the community.

Through unwavering dedication and tireless efforts, Kabiyesi has had the honour of representing numerous esteemed entities, including high-profile private companies, foreign embassies, Banks, government parastatals, and even the Federal Government of Nigeria.

His sterling reputation and expertise have earned him the privilege of handling a multitude of briefs for these esteemed institutions.

A seasoned traveler and esteemed diplomat, Oba Olugbenle has graced numerous international conferences and seminars, both within Nigeria and abroad. His global perspective and insightful contributions have made him a respected figure on the international stage.

As a testament to his esteemed standing in the real estate industry, Kabiyesi serves as a distinguished member of the Board of Trustees of the Real Estate Developers Association of Nigeria (REDAN), where he plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of the sector.

In recognition of his outstanding contributions to society, Oba Kehinde Olugbenle was bestowed with the prestigious National Honour of Member of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (MFR) by former President Goodluck Jonathan GCFR in 2012, a fitting tribute to his exemplary service and dedication to his country.

A prolific member of numerous professional bodies, Kabiyesi’s credentials speak volumes about his expertise and commitment to excellence.

As a Fellow of the Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers (FNIVS), a Registered Estate Surveyor and Valuer (RSV), a Fellow of the Nigeria Institute of Management (FNIM), and a member of esteemed organizations such as the International Facilities Management Association, Nigeria Chapter, and the African Real Estate Society, his influence and expertise are widely acknowledged and respected.

Oba Kehinde Olugbenle’s journey to professional excellence began with his election as an Associate Member of the Nigeria Institute of Management (AMNIM) in 1994. Over the years, he has ascended to the highest echelons of the institution, culminating in his elevation to the esteemed grade of Fellow (FNIM).

In a momentous ceremony on April 14, 2012, HRM, Alayeluwa Oba Kehinde Olugbenle (MFR) was presented with the Staff and Instrument of Office as the Olu Ilaro and Paramount Ruler of Yewaland, Ogun State, by the former Governor Ibikunle Amosun (FCA), marking the commencement of a historic reign characterized by wisdom, compassion, and unwavering dedication to his people.

On behalf of the esteemed family of the late Pa Amodu Ogundele of Apena Kangbe Descendant, Apena Compound, Modeolu Qourters, Ilaro-Yewa, Ogun State, Elhadj (Otunba) Abu-Satar Idowu Hamed, the Otun Baaroyin of Ilaro-Yewa, and Publisher/Editor-in-Chief of StarTrend Int’l magazine and online, extend heartfelt congratulations to our indefatigable Kabiyesi, His Royal Majesty, Alayeluwa, Oba Kehinde Gbadewole Olugbenle MFR, FNIM, FNIVS, RSV., the revered Olu Of Ilaro and Paramount Ruler of Yewaland, Ogun State, Nigeria, for a tenure marked by remarkable achievements and unwavering commitment to the welfare of Ogun Obas and people of the Gateway State.