The Ekaarun Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Adebayo Akande, has called on Nigerians to embrace enduring values, unity, and service as the foundation for true legacy.
He made the call during the celebration of his 86th birthday and the 18th anniversary of Splash FM 105.5, Ibadan.
Speaking at the event, which was held at the Alumni Hall, University of Ibadan, the monarch expressed gratitude to God, his family, friends, and associates, describing their support over the years as priceless.
“It is not every time a man gets to celebrate 86 meaningful years of life, nor is it every day that one sees a dream like Splash FM grow, thrive, and redefine a city’s media culture for 18 vibrant years.
But what is life, without the people who walk its journey with you? Today, I’m not just celebrating my birthday, I am celebrating you—my dear friends, family, colleagues, and loyal partners.
“I am overwhelmed by the love that surrounds me, by the laughter in this hall, by the kind words that have been spoken, and by the faces that have travelled near and far just to honour me,” Oba Akande said.
He appreciated friends, family, the West Midlands Communication team, among others, for their support over the years.
To my friends, your unwavering support, your constant check-ins, your belief in my person and vision, these are treasures money cannot buy.
“To my dear family, your love is my compass. To the entire team at WestMidlands Communications, past and present, thank you for giving meaning to a vision I once whispered to myself. You’ve turned a single frequency into a household name. You’ve taken radio beyond the studio, you’ve taken it into lives.
“I often say that Splash FM is not just a radio station, it is a voice of values, a companion, a teacher, an entertainer, and most importantly, a torchbearer,” he added.
Oba Akande emphasised that true legacy is rooted in values, noting, “As I look at all of you, I am reminded again that legacy is not only built in structures, it is built in values. I stand before you today not just as a Royal Majesty or a broadcaster, but as a grateful man.”
Dignitaries at the event included Governor Seyi Makinde, represented by his Senior Special Assistant on Projects, Oluwaseun Lawal; Otun Olubadan-designate, Oba Eddy Oyewole, represented by Aremo Kunle Oyewole; wives of the celebrant, Chief (Mrs) Onikepo Akande (former Minister of Industry) and Mama Toun Akande; Prof Niyi Osundare; and the Vice Chancellor of Lead City University, Prof Kareem Adeyemo.
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