Ogun Community awards Late NewsDirect Founding Publisher for ‘selfless contributions’
…Names security building, community road after him
The Ifesowapo Ona-Ara community in Abimbola, Ado-Odo/Ota Local Government Area of Ogun State, has posthumously honoured Prince (Dr) Samuel Ibiyemi with an award of recognition for his selfless contributions to the development of the community.
The award ceremony took place over the weekend during the commissioning of the community’s newly constructed security building and main gate, which were named after the late Publisher.
Speaking at the event, the Chairman of the community, Sunday Adekanbi, highlighted the late Dr Ibiyemi’s unwavering commitment to the development of Ifesowapo Ona-Ara.
“Dr Samuel Ibiyemi did so much for our community, and that is why we have gathered here today to appreciate his efforts during his lifetime,” Adekanbi stated.
He further noted that before Senator Olamilekan Adeola, popularly known as Senator Yayi, facilitated the construction of Gasline-Esu Yago Road, it was Dr Ibiyemi who took it upon himself to grade the road annually, ensuring it remained motorable for residents and neighbouring communities.
“For over 20 years, he was a devoted supporter and benefactor of our community. Today, we are not just commissioning the security building but also dedicating it in his memory. Additionally, this road will now bear his name, as a lasting tribute to his impact,” Adekanbi added.
He prayed for continued divine support for Ibiyemi’s family, saying, “We appreciate his contributions and pray that God continues to be with his loved ones.”
…Ibiyemi’s contributions deserve recognition — Ajimo
Also speaking during the presentation of the award, the Coordinator of Ijoko Zone 4, Prophet Sam Ajimo, commended the late Ibiyemi for his generosity and dedication to the well-being of the community.
“It is good to be known for good things. Dr Samuel Ibiyemi was a wonderful friend who served and supported his community wholeheartedly. This award was not given freely—he truly earned it, and we will always remember his good works,” Ajimo said.
He further emphasised that Ibiyemi’s contributions were never for personal gain but for the betterment of the community, from which many had benefitted.
“He did all of this, not for himself, but for the progress of the people. He was a good man,” he added.
Receiving the award on behalf of the family, Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) Annette Ibiyemi, the widow of the late philanthropist, expressed profound gratitude to the community for honouring her husband.
“Though Dr Samuel Ibiyemi is no longer with us, his goodwill and legacy will never fade. We will continue to support the community because that is the path he set for us,” she stated.
In a further show of commitment to her late husband’s vision, CSP Ibiyemi announced a financial donation towards the progress of the community.
“We sincerely appreciate this wonderful recognition, and in continuing my husband’s legacy, we are donating this sum for the development of our community,” she said.
A member of the community and representative of the Baale of Abimbola, Mr Kehinde Abimbola, described Dr Ibiyemi as a true lover of the community.
“Despite not being the chairman of this community, he achieved so much for us. Imagine what he could have done if he had held that position,” Abimbola remarked.
He concluded by reaffirming that the award was well-deserved, adding, “We pray that God will continue to strengthen and uphold his family.”
