The peaceful town of Iyin-Ekiti, headquarters of Araromi Local Council Development Area in Ekiti State, was full of excitement on Thursday as Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele was honoured with a grand reception.
Residents described the event as a moment of immense pride and inspiration.
Organised by traditional rulers, community and religious leaders, students, artisans, hunters, and politicians from diverse backgrounds, the reception was a tribute to Bamidele’s achievements and impact since assuming the role of Senate Leader.
At the forefront of these achievements was the recent approval of a new Federal University of Technology and Environmental Sciences for the Iyin community, a development influenced by Bamidele.
The occasion also provided an opportunity to reflect on his leadership qualities and commitment to community service.
Oba Adeniyi Ajakaiye, the traditional ruler of Iyin-Ekiti, described Bamidele as a shining example of leadership rooted in love for one’s people.
“He was shaped by values of community, hard work, and empathy, including principles that have guided his life’s work.
“We, as a community that produced him, are glad to note that he has risen to national prominence not only as a politician but also as a servant-leader committed to improving the lives of the people,” he said.
The monarch highlighted Bamidele’s contributions, noting that he had transformed Iyin-Ekiti into a hub of development with numerous landmark projects.
These include the construction of the Iyin-Ilawe road, an extensive road network within the community, solar-powered streetlights, and the establishment of modern market stalls.
According to Oba Ajakaiye, Bamidele’s emergence as Senate Leader was a testament to his capacity for transformative leadership and his integrity in national service.
Since assuming office, he said, Bamidele had taken proactive steps to address poverty and unemployment among his constituents while reshaping the broader narrative of poverty reduction in Nigeria.
He listed Bamidele’s impactful programmes, which include skills development, entrepreneurship support, and financial empowerment initiatives aimed at providing Ekiti residents with the tools to build sustainable livelihoods.
Other initiatives include the empowerment of graduates, small businesses, women, and youth, creating numerous opportunities for community growth.
“He has also been at the forefront of responding swiftly to emergency situations, whether caused by conflict or natural occurrences, ensuring that those in dire need receive timely assistance,” the monarch added.
Similarly, Hon. Israel Adesokan and Dr Titilayo Akinola, principal coordinators of the carnival-like event, commended Bamidele for his statesmanship and unwavering commitment to service delivery in Ekiti State.
In his remarks, Bamidele expressed deep gratitude to the traditional ruler and the people of Iyin-Ekiti for the honour bestowed on him.
He emphasised that the event was not merely a celebration but a renewed call to serve his people.
Bamidele assured the community that he remained committed to working closely with Governor Biodun Oyebanji and other leaders in Ekiti to address the state’s pressing challenges.
He also reaffirmed his dedication to driving development and progress for the benefit of his constituents and beyond.
