President Bola Tinubu bestowed the prestigious Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON) on Oba Sikiru Adetona, the revered Awujale of Ijebuland, during the monarch’s 90th birthday celebration at the Oba Sikiru Adetona School of Governance, Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago-Iwoye, Ogun State.

Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, President Tinubu commended Oba Adetona’s exceptional contributions to national development and announced the transfer of the management of the School of Governance to the National Institute of Policy and Strategic Studies, Kuru, Jos, as per the monarch’s wish.

Describing the Awujale as an exemplary leader and democracy icon, Tinubu highlighted the monarch’s unwavering commitment to Nigeria’s progress, especially during challenging times.

The event included the presentation of a book titled “Reinventing Governance in Nigeria: The Oba (Dr) Sikiru Kayode Adetona Model” and the Oba Sikiru Annual Professorial Chair lecture, delivered by Prof Akinsola Agagu, focusing on “Changing Nigeria’s Governance Narratives.”

Governor Dapo Abiodun lauded Oba Adetona’s integrity, justice, and philanthropy, emphasizing his role in promoting religious tolerance and national unity.

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, Governor Ademola Adeleke, and other dignitaries graced the occasion, underscoring the significance of Oba Adetona’s legacy.

In his welcome address, Prof Ayodeji Agboola, the Vice Chancellor of the University, hailed Oba Adetona’s immense contributions, including his endowment of a professorial chair in governance and the establishment of the School of Governance, as invaluable assets for promoting good governance in Nigeria and beyond.