13/11/2025
In Case You Missed It...
*ITESIWAJU OYO PROFESSIONAL FORUM CELEBRATES 5TH ANNIVERSARY IN GRAND STYLE.*
The grand finale of the 5th Anniversary Celebration of Itesiwaju Oyo Professional Forum (IOPF) was held on Saturday, 8th November, 2025, at the prestigious Starlight Events Centre, Mabolaje, Oyo. The event which was preceded by other activities including Media Appearance, Novelty match, Medical outreach and Capacity building and Health seminar for members, marked a significant milestone in the Forum’s journey of fostering unity, professional excellence, and community development among residents of Oyo and beyond.
The anniversary, themed “Setting the Framework for Economic Prosperity and Collective Development,” provided an opportunity for reflection on the Forum’s achievements, recognition of outstanding contributions, and charting of a visionary course for the years ahead.
The program commenced with an opening prayer, followed by the rendition of the National and State Anthems. The President, Dr. Teslim Ademola Adebimpe welcomed all guests and gave an overview of the Forum’s growth and impact over the past five years. In his opening remarks, he expressed gratitude to all members for their dedication and highlighted the Forum’s accomplishments in the areas of youth empowerment, educational support, and community development projects. He reiterated the organization’s commitment to building a strong network of professionals contributing meaningfully to the socio-economic progress of our dear society.
The keynote address was excellently delivered by Hon. (Dr) Maruf Akinwande, a business tycoon and former honourable member of the House of Representatives, Oyo Federal Constituency. The team of panelists comprising Engineer Luqman Adewole, Dr. A.B. Giwa, Alhaja Mujidat Anifowose and the Representatives of the Federal Inland Revenue Service, Oyo zone delivered an insightful presentation emphasizing the need for collaboration in tax payments by all and sundry, innovation, and investment in human capital as pathways to sustainable economic advancement in our society.
The federal government loan scheme for students in tertiary institutions, NELFUND, was also deliberated on. Students and guardians present were enlightened on the essence of the scheme and urged to key into it.
The plenary session encouraged professionals to leverage their expertise and networks to attract development projects, mentor younger generations, and create business linkages that would uplift the entire locality.
Participants reacted well to the plenary discussions as several questions were asked and comments made.
The event witnessed the presence of Asiwaju (Dr) Yinusa Kazeem Ayandoye, a governorship aspirant in the forthcoming 2027 general election in Oyo State who expressed his joy to be available for the program, and pledged his readiness to join forces with the Forum to take Oyo state to greater heights.
Goodwill messages were delivered by distinguished guests, including representatives from Dynasty 89.9FM, Students' Union Government President of the Federal College of Education (Special), Oyo to mention a few. They commended the Forum for its consistency and vision-driven leadership over the past five years and pledged continued supports for its initiatives.
A major highlight of the event was the Awards Presentation segment, where deserving individuals were recognized for their outstanding services, contributions to community growth, and support for the Forum’s objectives. Recipients include Dr. Daud Ajibola Yahyah, the pioneer President of the Forum; Hon. Oyeleru Oyedemi, founder of Oyomesi 97.5FM; Hon. Saheed Oladele, Baameko of Ibadanland. They all expressed appreciation for the recognition and honour, and pledged to continue supporting the vision and mission of the forum.
The event featured captivating moments where guests interacted freely, reminiscing on the Forum’s humble beginnings and celebrating its steady progress.
The 5th Anniversary Celebration of Itesiwaju Oyo Professional Forum was a memorable and impactful event that not only celebrated past achievements but also set a strategic tone for the Forum’s future engagements. With the collective commitments of its members and partners, the Forum remains poised to drive economic prosperity and holistic development within and outside Oyo.
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