Barrister Olajide Olanipekun, has formally bowed out as President of the Oyo Premier Club, marking the end of a four-year tenure, as Surveyor Dr. Kayode Odedare emerged as the new President of the prestigious social organisation.
Olanipekun delivered his valedictory address today, Saturday, 28th February, 2026, during the Club’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) held at Bajomo Hall in Oyo, describing his time in office as a rare privilege and honour bestowed on him by members.
Reflecting on his administration, the outgoing President expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve two consecutive terms, noting that the confidence reposed in him by members since his first election in February 2022 remained a defining moment of his leadership journey.
He tagged his valedictory speech with the theme this, “Ebenezer: Thus Far the Lord Has Helped Us,” attributing the achievements recorded under his leadership to divine support and the collective commitment of members of the Club.
Barrister Olanipekun acknowledged the Club’s Grand Patron His Imperial Majesty, Iku Baba Yeye Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I, the Alaafin of Oyo, and the Onifiditi of Fiditi – Oba Oyewole Sakiru Oyelere for their support for the Club
Olanipekun recalled that his administration began with an eight-point agenda aimed at repositioning the Club for purposeful engagement, adding that the cooperation of members ensured the successful implementation of key policies and programmes.
He noted that successive engagements, including annual and bi-annual meetings, provided platforms to consolidate achievements, recalibrate strategies, and sustain developmental momentum throughout his tenure.
According to him, the administration also focused on strengthening recreational and sporting activities within the Club, including the organisation of game festivals in 2023 and 2024, which enhanced facilities and fostered stronger relationships with sister clubs.
The outgoing President highlighted efforts to revitalise the Club’s internal structure, particularly through active section participation, describing such units as critical to the overall growth and vibrancy of the organisation.
On financial sustainability, Olanipekun disclosed that the Club’s bar remained a significant source of internally generated revenue, contributing to operational stability and funding of key projects despite prevailing economic challenges.
He further revealed that improvements in infrastructure and security, including the installation of solar lighting, CCTV systems, and communication devices, were made possible through members’ contributions and donations.
Speaking on membership expansion, he stated that the administration admitted 38 new members, emphasising a deliberate focus on quality individuals capable of adding value to the Club’s legacy.
A major highlight of his tenure, he said, was the significant progress recorded on the Bajomo Hall project, including roofing, plastering, installation of fittings, and structural enhancements, while expressing optimism that the incoming administration would complete the remaining works.
Olanipekun, who pledged continued support for the new leadership, urged members to remain united and committed to advancing the Club’s development, noting that the foundation laid during his tenure provides a platform for future growth.
The outgoing President further appreciates the efforts of Dr. Adekunle Ladipo Ogunmola – The Club’s Chairman Board of Trustees for providing viable leadership in the club.
He also appreciated Chief Debo Omotosho- one of the Club’s Patrons for huge financial support towards the club.
However, Bishop Christopher Akintunde Ogunniyi – a former Club president and Club patron was also appreciated.
The immediate past president also appreciated the following individuals – Engr. Dr Babajide Agunbiade – The Atobaase of Yoruba land and Asiwaju of Fiditi; Chief Layiwola Amoje – The Okanlomo of Awe; Dr Ademola Wasiu Alli – Founder AWA foundation; Engr. A. k. Ahmadu; and a host of others for their financial assistance to the Club.
He congratulated the new Executive Committee led by Odedare and expressed confidence in their ability to build on existing achievements and steer the Club to greater heights.
He also appreciated his wife Mrs Eunice Temitope Olanipekun and his children Olamiposi and Olamidoyin for keeping up with the home front when he was busy with the club administration.
The highlight of the event features a club presentation of the award of Meritorious Service to 9 members of the Executive Committee who worked with him over the course of 4years between 2022 and 2026, viz; Hon. Akinwande Erufa, Alh. Fatai Akindele, Com. John Olusumbo, Lateef Salam, Mogaji Teslim Adunola, Mr. Emmanuel Adegoke, Mr. Tojani Waheed Gbolagade, Mr. Godwin Oyelakin Akinpelu, and Mr. Moses Abiodun Ajibowu.
The AGM concluded with the formal transition of leadership, ushering in a new phase in the history of the Oyo Premier Club.
