28/07/2026
GOVERNOR DAPO ABIODUN, AKARIGBO, KESINGTON ADEBUTU, AMBASSADOR AMINU MUHAMMAD DALHATU LEAD GLOBAL REMO COMMUNITY AT 8TH REMO DAY UK 2026, REAFFIRM UNITY, HERITAGE AND DEVELOPMENT
Royal fathers, diplomats, government leaders, business executives, professionals and the global Remo diaspora converge in London to celebrate Remo heritage, strengthen unity, promote investment and reaffirm a shared commitment to the sustainable development of Remoland.
Omo'ba Abiola Ogundeko | Media & Publicity Adviser, RemoGDF
London, United Kingdom - The historic Porchester Hall, Bayswater, London, hosted the 8th Remo Day UK Celebration on Saturday, July 25, 2026, bringing together royal fathers, diplomats, government officials, political leaders, business executives, professionals and hundreds of Remo indigenes from across the United Kingdom, Ireland and beyond in a vibrant celebration of culture, unity and development.
Organized by the Remo Growth and Development Foundation (RemoGDF) UK & Ireland, the annual event was held under the theme, "Remoland: Consolidating Our Shared Values," and reinforced the enduring bond between the homeland and its diaspora while promoting cultural preservation, investment, networking and strategic partnerships for the sustainable development of Remoland.
Leading the distinguished guests were His Excellency, Prince Dapo Abiodun, CON, Executive Governor of Ogun State; His Royal Majesty, Oba (Dr.) Babatunde Adewale Ajayi, CFR, Torungbuwa II, the Akarigbo and Paramount Ruler of Remoland; Sir (Dr.) Kesington Adebukunola Adebutu, CFR, KJW, Balogun of Remoland and Chairman, Board of Trustees of the Remo Growth and Development Foundation (RemoGDF), accompanied by Chief (Mrs.) Kofoworola Adebutu; His Excellency Ambassador Aminu Muhammad Dalhatu, Nigerian High Commissioner to the United Kingdom; and Senator Engr. (Otunba) Gbenga Daniel, FNSE, FNAEng, FNIMechE, Senator representing Ogun East Senatorial District and former Governor of Ogun State.
Other prominent personalities included Senator Prof. Iyabo Obasanjo-Bello; Dr. Biodun Olusina Shobanjo, Chairman, Troyka Group; Aare Dr. Kolawole Oyefeso; Asiwaju Dr. S. K. Onafowokan, OON, represented by Yeye Mojisola Onafowokan; Prince Wole Sowole, First Vice Chairman, RemoGDF; Col. Dele Oyefuga (Rtd.), Second Vice Chairman, RemoGDF; Hon. (Dr.) Oladipupo Adebutu, PDP Governorship Candidate for the 2027 Ogun State Governorship Election; Hon. Funmi Akinyebo-Efuwape, APC Candidate for the Remo Federal Constituency in the forthcoming 2027 General Election; Hon. Dr. Iliyasu (Ily) Maisanda, President, Central Association of Nigerians in the United Kingdom (CANUK) (2025–2027); Chief (Mrs.) Jumoke Ariyo, President, Central Association of Ogun State Indigenes in the United Kingdom (CASSOGI UK); Chief Adebayo Onafuwa; Alhaji Elias Abiodun Aina; Engr. Wale Fayemi; Mr. Sammy Ogunjimi; Alhaji Tayo Rabiu; Chief Olusegun Adekoya; Prof. (Otunba) David Lai Soile; Otunba Taofeek Sokoya; Hon. Solomon Osho, Esq., Hon. Damilare Mohammed Bello; Hon. Olapeju Abiodun Ayodele; and Prince Afolabi Orekoya, alongside distinguished professionals, entrepreneurs, community leaders and stakeholders.
The celebration also brought together members of the Remo Traditional Council, the leadership of RemoGDF, Presidents and Executive Officers of the various Remo town associations in the United Kingdom and Ireland, youth groups, volunteers and hundreds of Remo sons and daughters who travelled from different parts of the United Kingdom, Ireland and other countries to celebrate their shared heritage and reaffirm their commitment to the continued progress of Remoland.
More than a cultural gathering, the celebration provided a platform for dialogue on diaspora engagement, investment, cultural preservation and community development. Throughout the programme, speakers emphasised the importance of unity, visionary leadership, youth empowerment, strategic partnerships and collective responsibility in shaping a stronger and more prosperous Remoland.
The programme formally commenced with a welcome address by Engr. Ola Owoseje, Chairperson of the 2026 Planning Committee, who welcomed the royal fathers, government officials, diplomats, distinguished guests and participants to the annual celebration.
She described Remo Day UK as more than a cultural or social gathering, noting that it has become an important platform for reconnecting Remo indigenes in the diaspora with their roots while fostering networking, collaboration, investment and sustainable development.
According to her, the 2026 theme, "Remoland: Consolidating Our Shared Values," reflects the enduring virtues of integrity, hard work, discipline, respect, accountability, community service and love for one another that have continued to define the Remo people across generations.
Engr. Owoseje expressed appreciation to His Excellency, Prince Dapo Abiodun, CON; His Royal Majesty, Oba (Dr.) Babatunde Adewale Ajayi, CFR, Torungbuwa II, the Akarigbo and Paramount Ruler of Remoland; Sir (Dr.) Kesington Adebukunola Adebutu, CFR, KJW; members of the Remo Traditional Council; distinguished guests; sponsors; volunteers; members of the Planning Committee; partner organisations; and the various Remo town associations for their invaluable support in making the 2026 celebration a success.
Speaking as Chief Organizer and Chairperson of the Remo Growth and Development Foundation (RemoGDF) UK & Ireland, Cllr. Folasade Shobanjo-Etti reaffirmed the Foundation's commitment to strengthening unity among Remo indigenes across the world while deepening cultural, social and economic ties between the diaspora and the homeland.
She noted that Remo Day UK has grown into one of the foremost annual gatherings of the Remo diaspora, serving as a platform for celebrating Remo's cultural identity, promoting investment, encouraging strategic partnerships and mobilizing support for developmental initiatives across Remoland.
Cllr. Shobanjo-Etti thanked Governor Dapo Abiodun; the Akarigbo and Paramount Ruler of Remoland; members of the Remo Traditional Council; Sir (Dr.) Kesington Adebutu; distinguished guests; sponsors; volunteers; the Planning Committee; the Executive Officers of RemoGDF UK & Ireland; the Presidents and Executive Officers of the various Remo town associations in the United Kingdom and Ireland; and all Remo sons and daughters whose commitment and support contributed to the outstanding success of the event.
She reaffirmed the Foundation's resolve to continue strengthening the bond between the homeland and the diaspora through programmes that promote investment, cultural preservation, youth empowerment, education, business networking and sustainable development.
Also acknowledged during the celebration was Otunba Seni Adetu, Governing Council Chairman of the Remo Growth and Development Foundation (RemoGDF), who was unavoidably absent. He was represented by Prince Wole Sowole, First Vice Chairman, RemoGDF, and Col. Dele Oyefuga (Rtd.), Second Vice Chairman, RemoGDF, who conveyed his goodwill message and reaffirmed the Foundation's commitment to supporting initiatives that promote unity, progress and the sustainable development of Remoland.
Throughout the opening session, speakers maintained a common message: that the future of Remoland depends on preserving its cherished values, strengthening collaboration among its people, encouraging greater diaspora participation and investing in projects that will improve the lives of present and future generations.
Delivering the keynote address, His Excellency, Prince Dapo Abiodun, CON, Executive Governor of Ogun State, described the 8th Remo Day UK Celebration as a testament to the enduring unity, resilience and global achievements of the Remo people.
The Governor commended Remo indigenes in the diaspora for preserving their cultural identity while making remarkable contributions to their host communities. He noted that the sustained growth of Remo Day UK reflects the strong bond between the homeland and its people abroad.
Governor Abiodun called on Remo sons and daughters worldwide to remain united and continue investing their knowledge, professional expertise and resources in initiatives that promote sustainable development, attract investment, create employment and improve the quality of life across Remoland.
He reaffirmed his administration's commitment to infrastructure development, economic transformation, private sector investment and human capital development across Ogun State, stressing that Remoland remains a major driver of the state's industrial and commercial growth.
The Governor further highlighted the rapid industrialization of the Remo axis and expressed confidence that stronger collaboration among government, the traditional institution, the private sector and the diaspora would accelerate the socio-economic transformation of Remoland.
He also commended the leadership of RemoGDF UK & Ireland for sustaining an initiative that continues to unite Remo indigenes across the world while projecting the rich cultural heritage and developmental aspirations of the Remo people.
In his royal address, His Royal Majesty, Oba (Dr.) Babatunde Adewale Ajayi, CFR, Torungbuwa II, the Akarigbo and Paramount Ruler of Remoland, applauded the Remo diaspora for preserving the customs, traditions and identity of the kingdom despite living thousands of miles from home.
The Akarigbo described Remo Day UK as a symbol of the enduring unity of the Remo people and commended RemoGDF UK & Ireland, under the leadership of Cllr. Folasade Shobanjo-Etti, for strengthening the relationship between the homeland and the diaspora through meaningful cultural and developmental initiatives.
He urged Remo sons and daughters, particularly the younger generation, to uphold the values of integrity, discipline, honesty, hard work, respect and selfless service, describing them as the enduring foundation of the Remo nation.
The monarch also encouraged the diaspora to remain active partners in the development of Remoland through investment, mentorship, philanthropy and continued support for programmes that will benefit future generations.
Delivering his goodwill message, Sir (Dr.) Kesington Adebukunola Adebutu, CFR, KJW, Balogun of Remoland and Chairman, Board of Trustees of the Remo Growth and Development Foundation (RemoGDF), urged Remo indigenes around the world to sustain their commitment to education, youth empowerment and community development.
He observed that the future of Remoland depends not only on preserving its rich cultural heritage but also on investing in projects that expand opportunities for young people, improve livelihoods and drive sustainable economic growth.
Sir Kesington praised the organizers for sustaining Remo Day UK as a unifying platform that celebrates Remo culture, strengthens relationships among Remo indigenes worldwide and mobilizes support for the continued development of the homeland.
He added that the annual celebration has become an important avenue for inspiring younger generations to remain connected to their roots while contributing meaningfully to the progress of Remoland.
Also addressing the gathering, Senator Engr. (Otunba) Gbenga Daniel, FNSE, FNAEng, FNIMechE, Senator representing Ogun East Senatorial District and former Governor of Ogun State, commended the Remo diaspora for its unwavering commitment to community development and the advancement of the homeland.
He emphasized that unity, visionary leadership and strategic partnerships remain essential to achieving sustainable socio-economic development and encouraged greater collaboration among government, the traditional institution, the organized private sector, development organizations and the diaspora.
According to Senator Daniel, such partnerships will unlock new opportunities for investment, innovation and inclusive growth while positioning Remoland for greater prominence both nationally and internationally.
He described the continued success of Remo Day UK as evidence of the determination of Remo people across the world to preserve their heritage while embracing opportunities that will secure a brighter future for generations to come.
Also addressing the gathering, Senator Engr. (Otunba) Gbenga Daniel, FNSE, FNAEng, FNIMechE, Senator representing Ogun East Senatorial District and former Governor of Ogun State, commended the Remo diaspora for its unwavering commitment to community development and the advancement of the homeland.
He emphasized that unity, visionary leadership and strategic partnerships remain essential to achieving sustainable socio-economic development and encouraged greater collaboration among government, the traditional institution, the organized private sector, development organizations and the diaspora.
According to Senator Daniel, such partnerships will unlock new opportunities for investment, innovation and inclusive growth while positioning Remoland for greater prominence both nationally and internationally.
He described the continued success of Remo Day UK as evidence of the determination of Remo people across the world to preserve their heritage while embracing opportunities that will secure a brighter future for generations to come.
Collectively, the keynote addresses reinforced the central message of the 2026 celebration—that the continued progress of Remoland depends on unity, visionary leadership, cultural preservation, strategic investment and stronger collaboration between the homeland and the global Remo diaspora.
Collectively, the keynote addresses reinforced the central message of the 2026 celebration—that the continued progress of Remoland depends on unity, visionary leadership, cultural preservation, strategic investment and stronger collaboration between the homeland and the global Remo diaspora.
The celebration attracted several eminent personalities, including His Excellency Ambassador Aminu Muhammad Dalhatu, Nigerian High Commissioner to the United Kingdom; Senator Prof. Iyabo Obasanjo-Bello; Dr. Biodun Olusina Shobanjo, Chairman, Troyka Group; Hon. Dr. Iliyasu (Ily) Maisanda, President, Central Association of Nigerians in the United Kingdom (CANUK) (2025–2027); and Chief (Mrs.) Jumoke Ariyo, President, Central Association of Ogun State Indigenes in the United Kingdom (CASSOGI UK).
A major highlight was the attendance of the Remo Traditional Council, led by His Royal Majesty, Oba (Dr.) Babatunde Adewale Ajayi, CFR, Torungbuwa II, the Akarigbo and Paramount Ruler of Remoland.
Other royal fathers present were Oba Adewale Osiberu, the Elepe of Epe, Sagamu; Oba Peter Oluwole Ogunbayo, Otete III, the Odemo of Isara Remo; Oba Timothy Oyesola Akinsanya, the Ewusi of Makun, Sagamu; Oba Adesegun Bolaji Alowonle, the Elemuren of Emuren; Oba Lukman Adebambo Salami, the Ebi of Idena, Iperu Remo; Oba Mukaila Akanji Olabinjo, the Eleposo of Eposo; Oba Musiliu Adegbola Oriyomi Soile, the Radanuwa of Idado, Oba Kolawole Adesina Adeyemi, the Negbuwa of Ibido; Oba Kashimawo O. Gbadamosi, the Ologijo of Ogijo; and Oba Gabriel Babatunde Odunayo, the Aminisan of Oko, Sagamu.
The event also brought together the Presidents, Executive Officers and members of the various Remo town associations in the United Kingdom and Ireland, further demonstrating the unity of the Remo diaspora.
A defining moment of the celebration was the fundraising for the proposed £5 million Remo House, United Kingdom, conceived as a permanent cultural, social and development hub for Remo indigenes in the diaspora. The fundraising was coordinated by Prof. (Otunba) David Lai Soile, attracting generous donations from prominent individuals, community leaders, associations and other well-wishers in support of the landmark project.
The proposed Remo House will serve as a centre for cultural preservation, community engagement, business networking, educational programmes and diaspora activities, further strengthening the bond between Remoland and its global community.
Guests were treated to colourful cultural performances, exhibitions, networking sessions and community engagements that celebrated the rich traditions and heritage of the Remo people.
The event was professionally compered by Princess Moradeun Adedoyin-Solarin, whose seamless coordination kept the programme engaging throughout the day.
Renowned Juju music icon Labi Obey and his band provided the musical entertainment, bringing the celebration to a memorable close.
As the 8th Remo Day UK Celebration came to a close, participants reaffirmed their commitment to preserving the values, heritage and identity of the Remo people while supporting initiatives that promote sustainable development across Remoland.
The event reinforced the growing influence of the global Remo community and the vision of the Remo Growth and Development Foundation (RemoGDF) UK & Ireland to strengthen cultural ties, encourage investment, promote strategic partnerships and inspire future generations.
Special commendation was reserved for Cllr. Folasade Shobanjo-Etti, Chairperson, RemoGDF UK & Ireland, for her exemplary leadership and commitment to the successful organisation of the celebration. The organisers also recognised Engr. Ola Owoseje, Chairperson, 2026 Planning Committee, and members of the Planning Committee for their dedication and meticulous coordination of the event.
Special recognition was equally accorded to Prof. (Otunba) David Lai Soile, Pioneer Chairman, RemoGDF UK & Ireland, for coordinating the successful fundraising for the proposed £5 million Remo House, United Kingdom, while appreciation was extended to Otunba Seni Adetu, Governing Council Chairman, RemoGDF, represented by Prince Wole Sowole, First Vice Chairman, RemoGDF, and Col. Dele Oyefuga (Rtd.), Second Vice Chairman, RemoGDF.
The organizers further expressed gratitude to the Executive Officers of RemoGDF UK & Ireland, the Presidents, Executive Officers and members of the various Remo town associations in the United Kingdom and Ireland, sponsors, donors, volunteers, development partners and all Remo sons and daughters whose collective efforts contributed to another successful Remo Day UK.
The 8th Remo Day UK Celebration once again demonstrated that the Remo spirit transcends geographical boundaries, uniting generations of Remo people around a shared vision of cultural pride, unity and sustainable development.
EDITORIAL SUPPORT
• Cllr. Folasade Shobanjo-Etti, Chairperson, RemoGDF UK & Ireland
• Prof. (Otunba) David Lai Soile, Pioneer Chairman, RemoGDF UK & Ireland
• Barr. Adesoji Soda, General Secretary, RemoGDF UK & Ireland
• Deacon Seyi Kehinde, Head, Media & Publicity, RemoGDF UK & Ireland
• Engr. Ola Owoseje, Chairperson, Planning Committee, Remo Day UK 2026
• Chief (Rtn.) Tokunbo Soluade, Member, Planning Committee, Remo Day UK 2026
• Remo Culture and Tourism e-Magazine, Correspondent, London, United Kingdom
