By Samuel Temiloluwa – Lokoja
Chief Olugbemi Femi, Managing Director and CEO of Michabifem Ventures Limited and Democracy Newsline Newspaper Ltd, has received two prestigious awards of OGO Okun and Award of Excellence from Ilemila Royal Family in Kabba district of Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State.
The well attended event which was held yesterday simultaneously at the Olonijola Event Center and 95 Degree Event Center in Kabba respectively.
OGO Okun Award is part of the activities of the annual event being organized by Ileya Omo Okun, a brain child of Aare Yeye Omoleye Aiyelabowo to promote the rich cultural heritage of the Okun people both at home and diaspora.
Speaking at the event, Yeye Omoleye Aiyelabowo said this year’s edition is the 7th year since it commenced, stressing that despite the challenges, they are still pushing to promote Okun identity.
She pointed out that the true meaning of ‘Okun’ is strength, that it is in the togetherness of the Okun people lies their greatness.
According to her, the organization is looking forward to support and assistance from well meaning individuals and corporate organizations to achieve their dream of having Okun village where the youths can be mentored especially in weaving the Aso Ebile called Aso Oke, stressing that 13 apprentices she is sponsoring in Ilorin will be graduating next year to become trainers for upcoming youths that will want to build a career in the sector.
She used the occasion to eulogize the immediate past President-General of the Kabba Development Union (KDU), Engr Emmanuel Ajibero who has graciously donated 10 plots of land in Kabba towards the take off of Okun village that will provide different services.
She also commended Chief Olugbemi Femi for his encouragement and support over the years.
Responding, Chief Olugbemi commended the management and staff of Ileya Omo Okun for doing a wonderful job in promoting the rich cultural heritage of the Okun people.
He encouraged the organization to continue doing the great job, promised to leverage on his links to assist the group especially the Okun cultural troupe.
The awards recognize his outstanding contributions to community development and leadership.
Highlight of the event was the presentation of the OGO Okun Award, 2025 to him. Chief Olugbemi Femi is a journalist and publisher of two decades
Others who were honored include Professor Tunde Olusunle, Alhaj Aliu Badaki, President, Nigeria Tourism Association etc.
Dignitaries at the event includes, Dr Idris Femi aka Idrufem, representatives of Hon Idris Salman, Dr Stephen Adewumi of the Kogi State University, Kabba etc
In another related occasion, the Ilemila Royal Family recognized individuals who have distinguished themselves in their chosen careers at their annual event.
Chief Olugbemi Femi, a member of the royal family through his maternal side, was honoured for his contributions.
The royal family promised to continue working towards peace and development in Kabba community. Chief Olugbemi Femi vowed to be a good ambassador of the family.
Highlights included the presentation of the Certificate of Excellence. Others honoured include Alhaji Tai Ejibunu, ACG Kehinde Ejibunu (rtd), Hon Salman Idris, Rt Hon Matthew Kolawole, Professor Joash Amupitan, and INEC National Chairman, etc
Dignitaries who attended the event alongside with him, includes his wife, Mrs Abimbola Olugbemi, his children, friends, Hon Afolabi Kehinde, Hon Olorunsaiye Sunday, Mr Clement Akadi, Mr Abiodun Johnson, Hon Paul Aiyepeku and Mr Taiwo Moses Jajah
