By Ismail Azeez, Osogbo
The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, and an Associate Professor of Computing/IT Education at Osun State University (UNIOSUN), Oluwafemi Abanikannda, have urged Nigerians to move away from ego and focus on service.
The duo spoke at a civic reception and recognition of outstanding career achievements organised by the Otan-Ayegbaju Progressive Union (OAPU) on Saturday.
Abanikannda, who is the Director of Academic Planning at UNIOSUN, delivered a keynote address titled “Roots, Reach and Responsibility: What Our Origins Demand of Our Achievements.” He advised individuals not to forget their origins.
He said the responsibility tied to one’s origin is to turn personal achievements into service for others. He also urged people to stop seeking perfection and validation, and instead pursue progress with a broader purpose.
According to him, true success is not measured by wealth or accolades alone, but by how achievements align with values such as service, connection and purpose.
The Ooni advised award recipients not to relent in giving back to their community, noting that the most meaningful recognition comes from one’s place of origin.
“If you help your people to grow, it is more than money. I want the recipients to remember that they were natives of Otan before becoming Nigerians.
“There are small things you can do for your community that will never be forgotten,” the Ooni said.
The Global President of OAPU, Adetunji Mosebolatan, said the event was organised to celebrate outstanding indigenes and set positive examples for younger generations.
He added that the recognition was aimed at encouraging youths to pursue excellence and meaningful goals.
Recipients of the awards include Ayodeji Alabi, Executive Director, Ally Kay Oil and Gas; Dr Dele Alabi, President of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN); DIG Funsho Adegboye (Rtd); Chief Olusegun Jolaawo (SAN); Prof. Felix Olatunji, Dean, Faculty of Culture, UNIOSUN; and Prof. Segun Aina, son of Emeritus Prof. Olu Aina.
In a goodwill message, Dr Segun Aina, founding President of the Fintech Association of Nigeria and former President of OAPU, said recognising excellence reinforces the value of hard work and integrity.
He added that the event also serves to inspire young people and professionals, showing that success is achievable even from humble beginnings in Otan-Ayegbaju.