The campaign for the presidency of Ijesa Sports Club gathered significant momentum on February 26, 2026, as distinguished diplomat and educationist, Nimota Nihilola Akanbi, delivered a compelling keynote address at the official unveiling of Erelu Jumoke Joyce Olafadehan as a presidential candidate.
Dr. Akanbi, a former Nigerian Ambassador to the Netherlands and recipient of the national honour OON, spoke passionately on the theme “Gender Equation for Global Development,” emphasizing that inclusive leadership remains essential for institutional and societal progress.
A Call for Inclusive Leadership
Addressing elders, club members, and invited dignitaries, the former envoy described the occasion as “a moment of reflection, responsibility, and decision,” urging members of the Ijesa Sports Club to align with global realities where competence, r
ather than gender, determines leadership.
She stressed that development remains incomplete when leadership opportunities are restricted to one segment of society, noting that sustainable growth is only possible when institutions harness the full spectrum of human capacity.
“True progress occurs when leadership is open to competence, regardless of gender,” she declared.
Celebrating Trailblazing Women
To underscore her message, Dr. Akanbi highlighted the accomplishments of distinguished Nigerian women who have broken barriers across academia and governance.
She referenced Bolanle Awe, Nigeria’s first female Professor of History, whose tenure as Commissioner for Education in Oyo State contributed to the establishment of the Oyo State College of Education in Ijesaland — an institution that later evolved into the University of Ilesa. According to her, Professor Awe’s legacy stands as proof that competence has no gender.
Dr. Akanbi also cited Olusola Obada, the Erelu of Ijesaland, who made history as Osun State’s first female Deputy Governor and later as Nigeria’s first female Minister of Defence. She described Obada’s service record as evidence that leadership effectiveness is rooted in ability, not stereotypes.
Personal Testimony of Excellence
In a powerful moment, Dr. Akanbi reflected on her own journey — from classroom teacher to award-winning school administrator, to international diplomat, and now Pro-Chancellor in Nigeria’s academic sector. She noted that her achievements were built on measurable excellence and dedication rather than gender privilege.
Her story, she explained, demonstrates that leadership potential thrives when opportunity meets competence.
Endorsement of Olafadehan’s Candidacy
Bringing her address to a close, Dr. Akanbi described the unveiling of Erelu Jumoke Olafadehan as more than a political declaration, calling it a symbol of progress and institutional maturity.
She affirmed that Olafadehan’s aspiration should be evaluated on merit, vision, and proven capacity to serve.
“The gender equation is not about replacing men,” she emphasized. “It is about complementing leadership and ensuring institutions benefit from the full range of human potential.”
Observers at the event described the unveiling as historic, signaling what many believe could mark a new chapter for the Ijesa Sports Club — one anchored on inclusive leadership, competence, and forward-thinking governance.
Photos from the event:
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