11/01/2025
_Saturday 11th January, 2025_
*HRH ALAYELUWA OBA (BARR.) S. K. A. OKURIBIDO HOSTS THE CHRISTIAN ASSOCIATION OF NIGERIA (CAN) AT THE 2025 NEW YEAR ANNUAL THANKSGIVING*
*His Royal Highness, Alayeluwa Oba (Barr.) S. K. A. Okuribido, Okulote II, Anowoneyo IV, Dagburewe of Idowa, hosted the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Idowa and Imoro Chapter, for his first-year annual thanksgiving at the Anowoneyo/Okulote Court on Saturday, January 11, 2025.*
The event was a significant gathering that included Muslims, traditional worshippers, non-religious practitioners, and other dignitaries, all warmly received by Alayeluwa, his Olori, and their children.
The introduction of the Christian community was conducted by Pastor Oluwadamilare Ogunnaike, while Hon. Chief Yusuf O. Olusanya, Sobaloju & Imole-Adinni of Idowa introduced the Dagburewe-in-Council, Oloritun-in-Council, and other dignitaries.
The *CAN, led by its Chairman, Snr. Apostle Prophet Babajide Badmus of Cherubim and Seraphim* ushered the community into the new year 2025, with inspiring Biblical readings, preaching, and admonitions Pastor Abayomi Adams delivered the sermon, drawn from Romans 12:1-2 and Isaiah 43:18, emphasizing the need for positive change and harmonious relationships among individuals.
The gathering was filled with gratitude to God for the blessings brought to Idowa through Kabiyesi’s leadership. The attendees acknowledged his first-year achievements, which have greatly impacted the community's development. Prayers were offered for continued wisdom for Kabiyesi, as well as peace and prosperity for Nigeria and Ogun State.
In his address, Kabiyesi emphasized key community issues and achievements:
1. Unlawful Land Sales: He condemned the unauthorized sale of Dagburewe land and its negative consequences.
2. Upgrading of Idowa Vocational Centre (IVC): Kabiyesi announced the center’s certification to international standards through the partnership of the Ogun State Government and the World Bank. Graduates will now receive a National Skills Qualification (NSQ) certificate, enabling them to secure global job opportunities. He encouraged parents to support their children’s education and ensure they maintain at least 80% attendance to qualify for certification.
3. Idowa Bulk Purchasing Market (IBP): He reiterated that the market remains under the jurisdiction of the Community Development Associations (CDAs) and warned against manipulations by its leaders and CDAs leaders. Kabiyesi urged transparency and integrity in all dealings.
The event concluded with a prayer led by the CAN Chairman, Snr. Apostle Prophet Babajide Badmus. The gathering was entertained with hospitality, leaving attendees satisfied and uplifted.
_Key dignitaries in attendance included:_
Dagburewe-in-Council: Led by Alhaji Chief S. Tola Adebambo, Babalaje, and Balogun-Adinni of Idowa.
Oloritun-in-Council: Led by Chief Suarau Ashimi (Olola), under the chairmanship of Alhaji Otunba Aare F. O. Abiona (Sokobieke of Idowa).
Oba’s Children: Led by Pastor (Mrs.) G. Olusada (Nee Okuribido).
Muslim Council: Led by Alhaji M. O. Abiona (Eketa-Imam) and Alhaja Chief Fausat Abdullahi (Iya Sunnah General).
Community Christian Association: Led by Baba Ijo, Chief Adeseye A. Oshinusi.
Community Residents: led by Mr. Risiku Abujade.
May we all live to witness many more celebrations in good health and prosperity.
Signed:
*Hon. Chief Yusuf O. Olusanya*
_Sobaloju & Imole-Adinni, Idowa_
_For Aafin Dagburewe, Idowa_