By Olaitan Ibrahim
The Oniru of Iruland, Oba Abdulwasiu Omogbolahan Lawal, has reaffirmed his commitment to the sustained development and cultural renaissance of Iruland as he marked his fifth coronation anniversary in grand style.
Speaking at a colourful ceremony attended by traditional rulers, government officials, community leaders, and well-wishers, the monarch reflected on his five-year reign, which he described as a journey of transformation, cultural preservation, and inclusive leadership.
“By the will of Olodumare and the enduring grace of our ancestors, I ascended the sacred throne of my forebears as the 15th Oniru of Iruland,” Oba Lawal declared. “Today, I speak not just as a king, but as a custodian of culture, customs, and a legacy that demands progress grounded in tradition.”
The monarch expressed gratitude for the unwavering support of his people, noting that their shared vision for a thriving Iruland has driven the achievements of his reign.
“Iru is not just a place; it is a people,” he stated.
Oba Lawal highlighted the strides made under his #LeGIT agenda—an acronym for “Let’s Grow Iru Land Together”—which represents a strategic fusion of Leadership, Growth, Innovation, and Tradition. Since its launch, the initiative has served as a blueprint for transforming Iruland into a sustainable, inclusive, and prosperous urban centre.
“What began as a bold vision has evolved into a living movement,” he said. “#LeGIT is a call to action for all stakeholders—residents, indigenes, corporations, and institutions—to participate actively in the renaissance of Iruland.”
The anniversary celebration was both a cultural showcase and a reflection of the monarch’s progressive leadership. The day featured traditional performances, royal processions, and the conferment of chieftaincy titles on six distinguished individuals for their service and contributions to the development and unity of Iruland.
Beyond ceremony, the celebration underscored the monarch’s achievements in infrastructure, social development, and cultural revitalisation. Oba Lawal’s leadership has been widely praised for blending modern governance principles with deep respect for heritage, ensuring Iruland evolves without losing its soul.
As Iruland looked back on five years of dynamic leadership, the monarch’s anniversary stood as a symbol of growth, continuity, and a renewed promise to forge ahead—guided by the wisdom of the past and the promise of the future.