- Ibile Eko Summit Group Hosts General Assembly to Strengthen Indigenous Voice in Lagos
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The Ibile Eko Summit Group took a significant step toward reinforcing indigenous representation in Lagos with the hosting of the General Assembly of Indigenous Associations in Lagos State on Thursday, February 27, 2025, at the Muson Centre, Onikan.
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Themed “Greater Unity, Louder Voice,” the event brought together key stakeholders, traditional leaders, policymakers, and academics to discuss strategies for strengthening indigenous participation in governance, socio-economic development, and cultural preservation.
The summit featured an array of prominent personalities, including Prof. Henry Hunjo, Head of the English Department at Lagos State University (LASU), who set the tone for the discussions with his opening remarks. His address underscored the importance of cultural identity and language in shaping a sustainable future for Lagos.
Renowned legal expert Mr. Olasupo Shasore (SAN) delivered the welcome address, emphasizing the need for legal and political advocacy to safeguard the rights and interests of Lagos indigenes.
His speech highlighted the historical significance of IBILE’s role in governance and the need for proactive measures to ensure inclusivity. Respected elder statesman Prince Tajudeen Olusi delivered a goodwill message, urging indigenous groups to foster greater collaboration in order to protect their collective interests.
His speech resonated with the summit’s core mission—to amplify the voice of Lagosians in the city’s evolving socio-political landscape.
Adding further depth to the discussions, Mrs. Adebiyi Kazeem addressed the assembly on the collective aspirations of Lagos indigenes, stressing the importance of unity in achieving meaningful development.
A major highlight of the event was the keynote address delivered by Mr. Kayode Opeifa, Managing Director of the Nigeria Railway Corporation.
He spoke extensively on the role of infrastructure, transportation, and policy reforms in shaping the future of Lagos.
He stressed that sustainable infrastructure development is pivotal in ensuring that Lagos indigenes actively benefit from the state’s rapid urban transformation.
A thought-provoking panel discussion, moderated by seasoned journalist Mrs. Mayor Ogun-Yusuf, explored the theme “Lagos of Our Dreams.” Panelists included Dr. Muiz Banire (SAN), former AMCON Chairman, who provided insights on land reforms and indigenous property rights in Lagos; Engr. Gbolahan Oki, GM of the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA), who emphasized urban planning and housing policies to accommodate both indigenes and migrants; Dr. Saheed Oladapo, historian and policy analyst, who addressed the historical evolution of Lagos and the need to balance modernization with cultural preservation; and Mrs. Toyin Fashola, entrepreneur and business strategist, who discussed economic opportunities for Lagosians in an increasingly competitive landscape.
The discussion highlighted key issues such as urban development, economic empowerment, cultural heritage preservation, and indigenous rights in governance.
The event concluded with closing remarks from Prof. Olawale Lawal, who summarized key takeaways and emphasized the need for concrete action in the coming months.
He urged the stakeholders to move beyond discussions and ensure that policies are formulated and implemented to protect and empower indigenous Lagosians.
As Lagos continues its evolution into a global megacity, the Ibile Eko Summit Group remains steadfast in its commitment to ensuring that the original inhabitants of the state are not marginalized.
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The summit served as a wake-up call for policymakers, community leaders, and Lagosians at large to work towards a more inclusive, equitable, and culturally rich future. With growing interest in indigenous advocacy and governance, the Ibile Eko Summit 2025 has set the foundation for a stronger, more unified Lagos.
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