25th Anniversary of the Collectives Symposium and Celebration — “We’ve Come This Far by Faith”
25th Anniversary of the Collectives Symposium and Celebration — “We’ve Come This Far by Faith”
The Collectives Club marked its 25th anniversary with a grand symposium and celebration themed “Remo Strategic Growth, Enhancement, and Sustainability.” The event took place at the prestigious Lagos Country Club, Ikeja, Lagos State, on Saturday, September 27, 2025.
Following the club’s Empowerment and Scholarship Program held on September 22nd, the anniversary celebration commenced with a series of engaging activities. Members and distinguished guests gathered early for a meet-and-greet complemented by a morning coffee session, fostering camaraderie among attendees.
The official proceedings began with the rendition of the Nigerian National Anthem, followed by the Ogun State Anthem and the Remo Anthem. Reverend J.M. Bamidele Ibikunle of the Remo Diocese Methodist Church led the opening prayer.
The event was graced by prominent personalities, including: His Royal Majesty, HRM Oba (Dr.) Babatunde Adewale Ajayi, CFR, B.L., LLM, FCA, FRIR Torungbuwa II, The Akarigbo and Paramount Ruler of Remoland, who was warmly welcomed to the high table. Prof. Oluyemi Oluleke Osinbajo, SAN, GCON, former Vice President of Nigeria and guest speaker. Engr. (Mrs.) Noimot Salako-Oyedele, Deputy Governor of Ogun State. Other notable guests included the Asiwaju of Remo Kingdom, Dr. Solomon Kayode Onafowokan; Aare (Dr.) Kola Oyefeso; and various royal fathers and community leaders.
The event’s opening speech was delivered by the club’s President, Engineer Wole Ogunsanya. He expressed gratitude to all guests, especially former Vice President Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, for honoring the occasion. He recounted the club’s inception in 1999 by indigenous Remo sons, including His Royal Majesty, Oba (Dr.) Babatunde Ajayi, as a platform for camaraderie and development among Remo’s sons and daughters.
Engineer Ogunsanya highlighted the club’s impact over the past 25 years, emphasizing how the organization fosters community support and professional growth. He paid tribute to late members Wole Sodipe and Soji Ogunsanya, observing a moment of silence in their memory. The President also shared updates on the health day initiative, which, in partnership with Olabisi Onabanjo University and international donors, benefited over 3,000 Remonians and involved an expenditure exceeding 150 million naira (~$100,000 USD).
He concluded by inviting new members aged 40 and above to join the club and extended prayers for continued success.
Prof. Yemi Osinbajo commenced his speech by acknowledging the Akarigbo of Remo Land, the Collectives President, and other distinguished guests. He commended the club’s remarkable achievements over 25 years, emphasizing its role in fostering development within Remo.
His keynote focused on “Remo’s Strategic Growth, Enhancement, and Sustainability,” highlighting the region’s infrastructural advancements, including the upcoming commencement of commercial activities at the Gateway Airport scheduled for October 7, 2025. Prof. Osinbajo praised Remo’s agricultural exports, particularly cassava, and the region’s increasing contributions to Nigeria’s economy through manufacturing, trade, and port activities. He concluded with a prayer for the club’s continued prosperity and for Oba Babatunde Ajayi’s health and well-being.
The event featured a panel session moderated by notable experts:
– Prof. Oluwatoyin Ogundipe
– Engineer Ade Ogundeyi
– Mr. Sammy Ogunjimi
The panel discussed the importance of sustainability and development in Remo. Key points included:
– The necessity for government investment in infrastructural development.
– Encouragement for Remo’s residents to invest locally.
– The importance of strategic land management and export education.
Following the discussion, panelists received appreciation awards for their insights.
Several awards honored individuals and organizations for their impactful contributions to the club and the Remo community:
– Impact Award: Hon: Kunle Shoname
– Excellence Award: Otunba Tunji Sholarin (represented by Engineer Wale) and Aare Kolawole Oyefeso, FRC, FGPS, FICARN, FIQM
– Community Service Award: Late Rt. Hon. (Otunba) Adewunmi Oriyomi Onanuga (accepted by his family)
– Leadership Award: Asiwaju (Dr.) Solomon Kayode Onawofowokan, OON
– Lifetime Achievement Award: Sir Adebutu Kesington, CON, KJW
A commemorative video showcasing the club’s impact on Remo was played, highlighting its developmental milestones.
The event saw generous donations from royal fathers and distinguished guests, bolstering the club’s initiatives. The celebration continued with performances from a live band and entertainment units organized by the club.
Engineer Bankole delivered the vote of thanks, and the event culminated with a cake-cutting ceremony led by the wife of the club’s president, accompanied by club executives and members. The closing prayer was offered by Alhaji Babatunde, bringing the celebration to a fitting conclusion.
The Collectives Club’s 25th anniversary was a remarkable affirmation of its commitment to the development and unity of Remo Land. The event not only celebrated past achievements but also charted a progressive path forward for sustained growth and community prosperity.
