The Great Ifes in History book series will take centre stage in Lagos on Friday, October 30, 2026, with a programme featuring a symposium, book launch and lifetime service awards celebrating heroism, patriotism and excellence.
The event, organised by Hon. Ahmed Ipoola Omisore in conjunction with Medomis Corporate Ventures, will hold at Oranmiyan Hall, Lagos Airport Hotels, Obafemi Awolowo Way, Ikeja, beginning at 12 noon.
The publication is designed to celebrate notable indigenes of Ile-Ife and recognise their contributions to history and society. The programme will also provide an opportunity to discuss the town’s heritage and the achievements of its people.
The symposium will focus on the theme ,“Ife L’Oba… O Si L’Eniyan”, with contributions expected from scholars, community leaders and religious figures.
Scheduled discussants include Dr Tomi úLayinka, First Vice-President of the Ife Development Board; Professor Adisa Ogunfolakan, a Professor of History and Archaeology at Obafemi Awolowo University; Dr M.R. Sanni, a retired Chief Lecturer at the Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro; and Pastor Femi Arilewola of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Lagos.
The Ooni of Ife, His Imperial Majesty Oba Babatunde Enitan Ogunwusi, CFR, is listed as the Royal Father of the Day, while Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr Kadiri Obafemi Hamzat, is named Principal Guest of Honour.
Mr Rasheed Lamina, Chairman of the Association of Indigenous Seafood Stakeholders in Nigeria, will serve as Chairman of the Day. Chief Oyekunle Alex-Duduyemi, Aro and Asiwaju of Ife, is listed as Father of the Day.
Other prominent personalities expected at the event include Chief Dele Momodu, publisher of Ovation Magazine; industrialist Chief (Mrs) Ladun Ojutalayo; Asiwaju Dr Tunji Olugbodi, Asiwaju of Aro Kingdom in Osun State; and Professor Wale Ladipo, Pro-Chancellor of Osun State University.
The list of special launchers features Chief Henry Olofingorite, Chairman of Henry Tinnoe Gas Nigeria Limited; Aare Dr Olumuyiwa Omisade, Aare of the Source, Ile-Ife; Professor
Prince Tokunbo Sijuwade, Chairman of Sijuwade Group of Companies, and Prince Dr Akeeb Ajilesoro, Chairman of the Ajilesoro Foundation, are named Principal Chief Launchers.
The book will be reviewed by Mr Gbenga Adefaye, Provost of the Nigerian Institute of Journalism and President of the Ife Development Board.
Arc. (Chief) Dupe Amoo Omisore, Arole of the Omisore Dynasty, will serve as Chief Host and Launcher.
Several public office holders and community representatives are also listed among the guests of honour. They include Hon. (Barr.) Yemisi Rosiji, Chairman of Ojokoro Local Council Development Area; Hon. (Prince) Usman Hamzat, Chairman of Ifako-Ijaiye Local Government; Hon. Adedeji Temitope Adewale, OON, a member of the Lagos State House of Assembly representing Ifako-Ijaiye Constituency I; Hon. Rasheed Makinde, identified in the programme as the APC candidate for Ifako-Ijaiye Constituency II in the Lagos State House of Assembly; and Hon. Benjamin Adeyemi Olabinjo, a member of the House of Representatives representing Ifako-Ijaiye Federal Constituency.
Beyond the presentation of the book, the programme will recognise individuals whose service and achievements reflect the values of dedication, patriotism and excellence.
The organisers say the gathering will bring together traditional rulers, academics, professionals, public office holders and other stakeholders to celebrate the history, heritage and contributions of the people of Ile-Ife.
The event’s master of ceremonies will be Yinka Ibikunle.
For enquiries and attendance confirmation, interested persons may contact Comrade Kola Omisore on 0706 163 3138, Alhaji Lanre Awosiyan on 0802 316 8198, or Hon. Ahmed Ipoola Omisore on 0803 304 6021.
Event details
Event: Great Ifes in History Book Series Public Presentation
Activities: Symposium, book launch and lifetime service awards
Theme: Celebrating Heroism, Patriotism and Excellence
Date: Friday, October 30, 2026
Time: 12 noon
Venue: Oranmiyan Hall, Lagos Airport Hotels, Obafemi Awolowo Way, Ikeja, Lagos.
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