The Ogun Indigene Forum Ghana celebrated the inauguration of its new executives at a ceremony held at the UDS Guests House, Accra on Sunday, June 2. The event marked a significant milestone for the Ogun Indigene Forum Ghana, ushering in a new era of leadership and community engagement.

The Ogun Indigene Forum, a vital organization for Ogun State indigenes in Ghana, held the inaugural event to officially welcome its newly elected executives. The forum, known for its commitment to cultural heritage and community development, set the stage for a promising future under new leadership.

The attendees came from various sectors, including business, academia, and politics. The ceremony featured traditional music, cultural performances, and awards presentations.

Highlights of the event included keynote addresses by Dr. Mrs. Sarah Dzorgbadzi, Senior Lecturer at the University of Ghana, who spoke on "Culture, the Performing Art & Inclusivity: Ghanaian - Nigerian Story," and Miss. Mawulawoe Awity, Executive Director of NEWIG Ghana, who discussed "Empowerment of African Women." Other notable moments included the formal swearing-in of the new executives.

Notable dignitaries present included: HRM Alh Abdul Rasheed Brimah IX (Paramount Oba of Greater Accra), HRM Oba Abdul Salami Adeniyi Sala1 (Oba Yoruba in Central Region), Alh Sheikh Dr Yahaya Al-Amin, Alh Sheikh Abdul Ganiyu Busari (Life Patron), Alh Sidiku Buhari (President of Council of Elders, Ghana), Alh Chief Musa Baba, The Asiwaju of Yoruba Community Ghana and Prince Adeyemi (President NIDO Ghana).

In his inaugural speech, the newly elected President Bola Akinsanya outlined his vision for the forum, focusing on education, economic empowerment, and cultural preservation. He emphasized the forum's goals to promote the cultural heritage of Ogun State, unite all indigenes of Ogun State, and advance economic empowerment through initiatives such as the School of Yoruba Language. The forum also aims to engage in corporate social responsibility and humanitarian activities, including building portable water sources like boreholes in rural areas in Ogun State and donating materials to prisons. The President, a telecommunications engineer, also shared his professional expertise and how it will benefit the forum.

The President applauded the contributions of Ogun indigenes to the development of Nigeria, calling them national builders and history makers. He highlighted notable individuals like Olusegun Obasanjo, Wole Soyinka, Fela Kuti, Funmilayo Kuti, Sir Adetokunbo Ademola (first Chief Justice of Nigeria), and the symbol of present-day democracy, MKO. He also appreciated the efforts of founding members, especially in Kumasi and Accra, and promised to be accountable, loyal, and dedicated to the growth, unity, and welfare of the members of the Ogun Indigene Forum.

Alhaji Sidiku Buhari, the President of the National Council of Yoruba Elders in Ghana, advised the newly elected executives to be sincere, serve with honesty, remain united, and stay focused on the forum's goals.

Attendees expressed their optimism and support for the new leadership. "I am excited about the plans laid out by our new executives," said Mr. Awofe Rasheed, a founding member of the forum. "Their dedication is truly inspiring."

The inaugural event was a resounding success, heralding a new chapter for the Ogun Indigene Forum. With strong leadership and a clear vision, the forum is poised to achieve great things for its members and the wider community.